Description
Magill forceps:
- It is angled in two planes which allows for it to be used in the oro- and hypo-harynx under direct vision during laryngoscopy.
- The most common application of this instrument is to maneuver the ET tube in nasal intubations
- The Magill forceps is used to pick up the ET tube in the posterior oropharynx and place its tip into the laryngeal inlet.
- The forceps’ grip surface is serrated and care must be taken not to rupture the cuff when maneuvering the ET tube.
- Ideally the endotracheal tube should therefore be held with the forceps just proximal to the cuff.
- For the same reason only airway equipment and not tissue should be maneuvered with the forceps as significant trauma and bleeding can result.
- The Magill forceps can also be useful in clearing foreign bodies from the upper airway in anesthetized or unconscious patients.
- Another use of the device is in placing and removing throat packs.
