# Predicting difficult airway among diabetic adults using palm print sign: A cross-sectional study

## TL;DR

This study shows that palm print patterns can help predict difficult airway in diabetic patients before surgery.

## Contribution

The palm print sign is introduced as a novel and effective predictor of difficult airway in type 2 diabetic patients.

## Key findings

- Palm print grades 2 and 3 were significantly associated with difficult laryngoscopy.
- The palm print sign had high sensitivity (78.9%) and specificity (85.2%) for predicting difficult airway.
- Palm print grading was identified as an independent predictor with an odds ratio of 4.91.

## Abstract

Prediction of difficult airway among type 2 diabetic patients using the palm prints sign during preoperative assessment is of
interest. A total of 215 diabetic patients scheduled for elective surgery were evaluated using palm print grading, Mallampati score, and
other airway assessment tools. Difficult laryngoscopy was observed in 17.7% of patients and showed a significant association with higher
palm print grades (2 and 3). The palm print sign demonstrated high sensitivity (78.9%), specificity (85.2%), and was identified as an
independent predictor of difficult airway with an odds ratio of 4.91. Hence, early identification of difficult airway among diabetic
patients can enhance airway management and reduce complications related to intubation.