HiSPY

Head positioning is critical for successful endotracheal intubation. Research has shown that predicting the exact head elevation (to optimise views at laryngoscopy) is not easy. The wide range of human variation meant that a single pillow of fixed height would not suit everyone. D+I worked with Horten Medical to develop the HiSpy — Intubation Positioning Device allows incremental, reversible variation of head height while performing laryngoscopy. The device is portable, robust, and easily cleaned. It allows single handed use and is not reliant on electrical or pneumatic power sources. It is designed for many years of trouble free use any time intubation is required. The device is compatible to use with current laryngoscopes and video-laryngoscopes.

Mechanical Positioning

The HiSpy is able to elevate the heads of morbidly obese patients, minimising the need to apply a lifting force to the laryngoscope if additional height is needed. The HiSpy is able to be used with the RAMPED position when achieved by adjusting the head of the bed 15 degrees. Elevating platform imitates trajectory of the head rotating around the torso Horse-shoe pillow limits lateral head movement ‘Head extension on the neck’ with ‘neck flexion on the torso’ maintains face in the coronal plane Easily lowers to the neutral position after securing the airway. The device consists of an elevating platform, attached to a base by paired arms. Initially horizontal in the neutral (low) position, but progressively moving the head counter clockwise to the neck with head elevation. The sliding motion of a cushion on the elevating platform acts to extend the head, allowing the face to remain in the coronal plane, facilitating visualisation of the vocal cords for endotracheal intubation.