A novel laryngoscope instrument stabilizer for operative microlaryngoscopy.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate and optimize the design of a removable and inexpensive internal stabilization device to reduce the effect of intention tremor during laryngeal microsurgery.


METHODS
In this laboratory investigation, stabilizers were designed and constructed to allow a nonobstructing view of the surgical field, permit simple insertion and removal, and accommodate microsurgical instruments. Prototype stabilizers were tested by using a Dedo laryngoscope, a measurement grid, and video recording equipment, which recorded instrument tremor within the magnified operative field for later analysis. Physicians also rated instrument stability, mobility, visualization, and ease of use on a survey form.


RESULTS
Instrument tremor was reduced approximately 90%, with little obstruction of view of the surgical field. Instrument range of motion was reduced but improved rapidly as the stabilizer bar was moved further from the tip of the laryngoscope.


CONCLUSIONS
Use of a stabilization device in the laryngoscope lumen reduces instrument tremor and has the potential to improve surgical performance during laryngeal microsurgery.


METHODS
B-3.
Armstrong
William B
WB
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Irvine, USA. wbarmstr@uci.edu
Karamzadeh
Amir M
AM
Crumley
Roger L
RL
Kelley
Timothy F
TF
Jackson
Ryan P
RP
Wong
Brian J F
BJ
D004867:Equipment Design; D020704:Laryngoscopes; D007828:Laryngoscopy / Q000379:methods; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods