In suspected cervical spine injury, which device helps minimize neck movement while improving glottic visualization?

• A. Video laryngoscope helps minimize neck movement and improves glottic visualization in suspected cervical injury.
• B. Direct laryngoscope is always better.
• C. Nasopharyngeal airway is a definitive airway.
• D. Laryngeal mask airway eliminates need for laryngoscopy.

Answer: (A)

In suspected cervical spine injury, the goal is to secure the airway with as little neck movement as possible while still getting a clear view of the vocal cords to place an endotracheal tube. A video laryngoscope achieves this by using a camera on the blade to display the glottic opening on a screen, so you can intubate with the head in a neutral position and with less neck extension. This combination—minimized neck movement plus improved visualization—makes it the best choice in this scenario.

Direct laryngoscopy, on the other hand, often requires aligning the oral, pharyngeal, and laryngeal axes, which typically means more neck movement and potential aggravation of a cervical spine injury. A nasopharyngeal airway is a ventilatory adjunct, not a definitive airway, and does not provide reliable glottic visualization. A laryngeal mask airway is a supraglottic device that can ventilate but does not guarantee airway protection or facilitate a controlled, well-visualized intubation in a trauma patient.