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he explains. "Having said that, you get a dramatically better view of the complete vocal cord structure — a view that's rare with a conven- tional laryngoscope — that makes intubation straightforward." Dr. Loskove believes lower price points and user-friendly designs have steadily increased the use of the devices. "From a safety perspec- tive, it's a no-brainer that every facility should have one," he says. When purchasing her facility's video laryngoscope, Ms. Wrobleski received input from her fellow anesthesia providers and the center's ENT surgeons, who were familiar with difficult airway scenarios. It's a significant capital investment — Ms. Wrobleski's center spent approxi- mately $10,000 for the main component and an additional $15,000 for 3 reusable blades — so you want to make sure the providers who will use the device sign off on its features and importance. The $25,000 Southwestern Ambulatory Surgery Center spent "is really not that much when you compare the price with equipment that's need- ed for other specialties," says Ms. Wrobleski, who decided to invest in reusable blades instead of disposables when a crunch of the numbers showed they'd save more over time. She had the full support to make the investment because all parties involved believed there was absolutely no reason that the facility shouldn't have the video laryngoscope on hand. "You can't put a price on patient safety," she says. "Plus, having the device reduces the num- ber of case cancellations." Worth another look If it's been several years since you've assessed the video laryngoscope market, newer lightweight, ergonomic designs and bright, sharp dis- plays powered by inexpensive batteries you can buy off the shelf demand another look. When shopping the options, don't necessarily settle for the option you think is easiest to use. "That's something that 1 1 4 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 6