Physio-Control and Aircraft Medical entered a strategic partnership that will include Physio-Control distributing the McGrath MAC EMS Video Laryngoscope to emergency medical services customers throughout the US, the UK, Canada, Australia1 and New Zealand, the companies announced today.
Designed and manufactured by Aircraft Medical, the McGrath MAC EMS Video Laryngoscope combines direct and indirect view laryngoscopy, offers a bright, clear video image to assist paramedics during difficult intubations and supports traditional Macintosh laryngoscope training and techniques. The device features an intuitive, rugged design and offers low acquisition and operating costs.
Unlike many video laryngoscopes, the McGrath MAC EMS is based on the familiar design of a traditional Macintosh laryngoscope with the added benefit of a video camera and screen. The McGrath MAC EMS incorporates both direct and indirect laryngeal views without the need for paramedics to learn a new skill. From routine to extreme airway situations, in pediatric or adult cases, multiple disposable blade options provide a familiar curvature with an anterior camera angle. The device’s CameraStick is reinforced with a steel-core alloy chassis, tested to double the industry drop standard and is compact, cable-free and fully-immersible for cleaning. The device boasts a battery life of up to 250 minutes, with minutes of use remaining clearly displayed on screen.
The device was designed and developed over a five-year period by award-winning industrial designer Matt McGrath, CEO of Aircraft Medical. “The most common feedback on the product is its ease of use, that it feels familiar, and the enhancement of visualising tube placement is a big advantage clinically” says McGrath. “It is reported to reduce the frequency of difficult airways when used routinely – this means using one instrument, rather than swapping out for other equipment if things get tough. Users are attracted to the McGrath MAC EMS because it offers both routine and difficult airway capability in one compact portable device, and is available at sensible pricing.”
Successful airway management is one of the most important and difficult EMS tasks, but the complex and unpredictable nature of EMS cases adds to the challenge of performing a quick and successful endotracheal intubation. Studies2 have shown that video laryngoscopes can improve laryngeal view and help increase EMS confidence and success in the field.
“We’ve been providing lifesaving tools to lifesaving teams for over 60 years,” said Cam Pollock, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Physio-Control. “We are excited to partner with Aircraft Medical as we expand our emergency medical response portfolio to include airway management. The McGrath MAC EMS is a great addition to the Physio-Control product lineup.”
References from Physio-Control and Aircraft Medical
1 – Pending Australian TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) approval
2 – Aziz M, Dillman D, Kirsch J, et al. Video laryngoscopy with the Macintosh video laryngoscope in simulated prehospital scenarios by paramedic students. Prehospital Emergency Care. 2009:13:251-255.
Image courtesy Aircraft Medical and Physio-Control via BusinessWire: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20150714005308/en/Physio-Control-and-Aircraft-Medical-Launch-Strategic-Partnership
