Why is the sniffing position recommended for intubation?

The sniffing position is recommended for intubation primarily because it aligns the pharyngeal, laryngeal, and tracheal axes, which facilitates optimal visualization of the airway structures. When a patient is placed in the sniffing position—by slightly extending the neck while flexing the head forward—it creates a straight line from the mouth through the throat and down to the trachea. This alignment makes it easier for the intubator to visualize the vocal cords and to advance the endotracheal tube accurately into the trachea, thus increasing the likelihood of successful intubation on the first attempt.

The introduction of the sniffing position aims to enhance the angle and direct line of sight during the procedure, which is crucial when dealing with challenging airways. In contrast, other positions may lead to misalignment and increase the difficulty of intubation, potentially introducing complications.