The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) is to develop Medical Technological Guidance for the AMBU aScope intubating scope.
The NICE Medical Technologies Advisory Committee (MTAC) has concluded that the Ambu aScope meets all the selection criteria required to be considered for medical technological development. The Ambu aScope is a disposable, singlepatient- use flexible intubating scope with a lightweight ergonomic handle and an easyto- steer thumb design. The scope utilises camera technology, which ensures a good, clear image that is displayed on the Ambu aScope monitor. It is indicated for use in the management of unanticipated or anticipated difficult airways and for visualisation during percutaneous dilatory tracheostomy (PDT) and can be used in either awake or anaesthetised patients, orally or nasally. The primary role of an anaesthetist is to maintain the airway and having the ability to visualise anatomy is paramount. The Ambu aScope allows anaesthetists to see anatomy clearly and to navigate and place breathing tubes accurately. If an alternative surgical airway is required at the front of neck the Ambu aScope allows clinicians to safeguard while performing the procedure, and to rescue when tracheostomy tubes displace.
