ACCURACY OF UPPER LIP BITE TEST IN PREDICTING DIFFICULT AIRWAY

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:  Various anatomical measurements and non‑invasive clinical tests can be performed to predict difficult intubation. Recently introduced “Upper lip bite test” (ULBT) is claimed to have a high predictability. However, limited data exists to support its high predictability both nationally and internationally.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of upper lip bite test in the prediction of difficult airway.

METHODOLOGY: This was a cross sectional study. A sample of 283 patients was calculated by using WHO sample size calculator and sampling was done by non-probability consecutive sampling. All the selected patients were assessed for upper lip bite test and Cormack and Lehane laryngoscopy grade separately. Data was collected on pre-designed proforma. Accuracy of ULBT was calculated based on the acquired data.

RESULTS: The calculated accuracy of ULBT for predicting difficult airway was found to be 91.2%.

CONCLUSION: ULBT is a reliable bedside technique with a high accuracy for predicting a difficult airway.

KEY WORDS: Upper lip bite test, Cormack and Lehane scale, difficult airway.