Is Mallampati classification a good screening test? A prospective cohort evaluating the predictive values of Mallampati test at different thresholds

Abstract Background There is currently some discussion over the actual usefulness of performing preoperative upper airway assessment to predict difficult airways. In this field, modified Mallampati test (MMT) is a widespread tool used for prediction of difficult airways showing only a feeble predictive performance as a diagnostic test. We therefore aimed at evaluating if MMT test would perform better when used as a screening test rather than diagnostic. Methods An accuracy prospective study was conducted with 570 patients undergoing general anesthesia for surgical procedures. We collected pr...

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