This week, 42 Technology (42T) made headlines at CES 2025 by introducing a groundbreaking medical device aimed at enhancing the efficiency and safety of patient intubation during surgical and emergency procedures. The new device, named LARi, is a cost-effective, single-use video stylet designed to provide real-time visual feedback throughout the intubation process. This innovation promises to address the challenges faced in complex intubations, ensuring safer and more accurate tube placement. Collaborating with Turning Mode, an innovation lab specializing in healthcare technology, 42T showcased the first working prototype of LARi at CES, demonstrating its seamless integration into existing medical workflows.

Intubation has increasingly become a complex procedure due to various patient-specific factors such as anatomy, weight, or injuries. These complexities can lead to delays in proper oxygenation or potential damage to vital structures like vocal cords and the esophagus. While current video-assisted tools exist, they often come with limitations, including the need for specialized training, reusable components that require sterilization, and inadequate visual guidance. For instance, bronchoscopes offer visibility but must be removed before inserting the endotracheal tube, increasing the risk of misplacement.

LARi addresses these issues by providing continuous real-time visualization of the entire intubation process. It integrates effortlessly with the tools already used by anesthesiologists, requiring no additional training. The video feed from the tip of the endotracheal tube can be displayed on either a customized laryngoscope-mounted screen or an external monitor. This feature ensures that medical professionals can navigate difficult airways with greater precision and confidence, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

The development of LARi is a collaborative effort between 42T and Turning Mode. Together, they are working on a commercialization strategy to bring this innovative device to market. By addressing the shortcomings of existing intubation tools, LARi aims to revolutionize the way medical professionals perform this critical procedure, offering a faster, safer, and more reliable solution. As the first video stylet designed specifically for seamless integration into existing workflows, LARi represents a significant advancement in medical technology, promising enhanced patient care and improved procedural outcomes.