Airway Exchange (Taras Grosh)

Last updated: February 9, 2026

This airway exchange technique uses an Aintree intubation catheter and a video laryngoscope for direct visualization.

Procedure

  1. Prepare the GlideScope (video laryngoscope) and have a fiberoptic bronchoscope available. Preload the desired ETT onto the Aintree catheter.
  2. Perform video laryngoscopy to visualize the vocal cords and the existing ETT.
  3. Insert the Aintree intubation catheter through the existing ETT to serve as a guide, then remove the current ETT.
  4. Advance the Aintree catheter through the vocal cords under direct video visualization, followed by advancing the new ETT over the catheter and into the trachea.

Clinical Considerations

  • Advantages: Provides direct visualization during intubation and placement, increasing the accuracy of the exchange.
  • Disadvantages: There is a brief period during the exchange where no ventilation device is in place, which can be critical in patients with severe airway edema or respiratory distress.