Predicting a Difficult Airway

Prior to attempting intubation one should assess the airway. 

3-3-2 rule indicates normal alignment and can offer some reassurance. 

 - 3 finger breadths between the incisor teeth. 

 - 3 finger breadths between the hyoid bone and the chin. 

 - 2 finger breadths between the thyroid notch & floor of the mouth. 

Mallampati Classification 

 - Used to predict the ease of endotracheal intubation. 

 - Ideally this is assessed with the patient sitting up and tongue protruded. 

 - Classification is based on which parts of the oral cavity are visible:



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