Blind Nasotracheal Intubation (BNTI) ==================================== þ BNTI as a cause of sinusitis þ other complications of BNTI by Dr. Li. Nevertheless (sans references) I will provide you with the top 7 reasons to choose BNTI over RSI (ala Letterman): 1) Allows very rapid intubation (sometimes 5 seconds or less). I presented two articles one claiming BNTI was faster one claiming that it was slower than OTI. If BNTI is attempted while preperations are being made for OTI (after the sedative but before NMBs) then no time is wasted and it is a moot point. 2) Since the patient is breathing spontaneously there is, generally, no need to preoxygenate via positive pressure ventilation which avoids gastric distension and the risk of aspiration. 3) It can easily be done in the sitting position which is more comfortable for the patient who is severely dyspneic. 4) Since NMBs are not administered (until after the tube is in place) laryngeal reflexes are intact which also (with #3 above) helps to prevent aspiration. 5) Immediate confirmation of endotracheal placement when the patient coughs and then stops vocalizing. 6) Better tube stability and more comfort for the patient than an orotracheally placed tube. 7) It does not limit your choice of further airway management should it fail (you can always paralyze and intubate orally). Whereas with failed oral intubation (after paralysis) you better hope that the patient doesn't aspirate while you are bagging him until the NMB wears off or you will have to obtain a surgical airway.