Mallampati Score
Introduction
The Mallampati classification was created to help you predict a difficult intubation. It’s a scoring system that ranges from 1 to 4, where 4 would be the most difficult. It accounts for different factors like the size of a persons tongue, the amount a person is able to open their mouth and ultimately estimates the available space you have for direct laryngoscopy.
In general, class I and II Mallampati scores predict an easy laryngoscopy and intubation. Endotracheal intubation becomes more difficult as the Mallampati score increases.
Video Review
A short video reviewing what you've already learned above
Class I
A class I Mallampati classification is when you see the
- soft palate
- uvula
- tonsillar pillars
Mallampati Class I
Class II
In a class II mallampati score you can see the
- soft palate
- uvula
Mallampati Class II
Class III
In a class III Mallampati score you can see the
- soft palate
- base of the uvula
Mallampati Class III
Class IV
In a class IV Mallampati score you can see:
- hard palate
Mallampati Class IV
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