What anatomical structure is lifted by the Miller blade?

The Miller blade is designed specifically to facilitate direct visualization of the vocal cords during intubation procedures. Its primary function is to lift the epiglottis, which is a flap of cartilage that covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. By navigating under the epiglottis, the Miller blade ensures that the airway is clear, aiding in successful intubation.

In contrast, while the uvula and the soft palate are important structures in the oropharynx, they do not play the same critical role in airway management during intubation by the Miller blade. The vallecula, an anatomical space located between the base of the tongue and the epiglottis, is typically associated with the use of a Macintosh blade, which lifts the tongue rather than dealing directly with the epiglottis. Therefore, understanding that the primary action of the Miller blade is to elevate the epiglottis is vital for correctly performing intubation procedures and ensuring patient safety.