Is video laryngoscopy superior to direct laryngoscopy for the endotracheal intubation of critically ill patients?

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Why is this study important?

Endotracheal intubation (ETI) in the critically ill is associated with a high rate of life-threatening complications. Video laryngoscopes (VL) have been shown to improve laryngeal view, which might translate into easier and more rapid endotracheal intubation, minimizing these risks. The present study was undertaken to compare VL to direct laryngoscopy (DL) in a prospective, randomized trial to see if VL improves first attempt success, minimizes complications, and improves clinical outcomes of ETI.

Which, if any, threats to validity are most likely to have an impact on the results and how?

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