The Laryngoscope reference article from the English Wikipedia on 24-Jul-2004
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Laryngoscope

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intubatingEnlarge

intubating

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A laryngoscope is a medical instrument that is used to obtain a view of the glottis by direct laryngoscopy. It consists of a handle (incorporating a battery) and a blade with a source of light.

Standard adult laryngoscopeEnlarge

Standard adult laryngoscope

Standard infant laryngoscope. Note the straight bladeEnlarge

Standard infant laryngoscope. Note the straight blade

Direct laryngoscopy is done with the patient lying on his or her back; the larygoscope is inserted into the mouth to push away the tongue and lift the epiglottis so that a view of the glottis is possible. This procedure is most often employed in tracheal intubation. It is painful and is usually not done in conscious patients.