Evaluation of the MACOCHA Score for Predicting Difficult Tracheal Intubation In Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Patients.
Keywords:
tracheal intubation, MACOCHA score, Difficult airwayAbstract
ABSTRACT
Introduction & Background: Tracheal intubation in the ICU is associated with significant risks in critically ill patients. The MACOCHA score was developed to predict difficult intubation in ICU patients. The study evaluates its predictive accuracy in ICU patients requiring endotracheal intubation.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in ICU patients to predict difficult intubation using the MACOCHA score. The study included critically ill patients requiring endotracheal intubation, with MACOCHA scores calculated prior to the procedure. During laryngoscopy Cormack Lehane grade was calculated for each patient and correlated with MACOCHA score.
Results: A total of 100 patients were analyzed. The mean MACOCHA score was 3.63 ± 3.17. Patients with difficult intubation had a significantly higher mean MACOCHA score (6.16 ± 2.95, p<0.01). Significant associations were found between higher MACOCHA scores and difficult intubations, as well as with complications post-intubation. Sensitivity and specificity of the MACOCHA score for predicting difficult intubation was 75% and 82% respectively with an AUC of 0.84 (95% CI, 0.76-0.93; p<0.01), confirming strong predictive validity.
Conclusion: The MACOCHA score is a reliable tool for predicting difficult intubation in ICU patients, facilitating proactive management strategies to improve outcomes. Recommendations include integrating the MACOCHA score into clinical practice to enhance preparedness and mitigate morbidity risks associated with tracheal intubation in critically ill patients.
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