Background and objectives: Difficult airways require fast action by the anesthesiologist often requiring complementary devices to ensure patent airways. However, several of those devices are expensive and require training in order to be used. The bougie, a simple and disposable device can also be manufactured by the anesthesiologist, making it a low cost tool.
Contents: Bougies are composed of one introducer that when inserted in the trachea helps orienting the introduction of the tracheal tube. It is a simple tool, easy to use, low in cost, and has been shown to be very useful in unexpected difficult airways.
Conclusions: The bougie has shown to be a valuable tool in the armamentarium of the anesthesiologist, and it is indicated in a wide range of situations.