Mallampatti Classification

Mallampatti classification is a system used to evaluate the visibility of the upper airway during laryngoscopy, which is a procedure used to visualize the vocal cords and upper airway. The classification system is based on the degree of visualization of the soft palate, uvula, and faucial pillars (the structures that support the back of the throat).

There are four Mallampatti classes, with class I being the easiest to visualize and class IV being the most difficult.

  • Mallampatti class I: The soft palate, uvula, and faucial pillars are easily visible. This class is considered to have the best airway visibility.

  • Mallampatti class II: The soft palate, uvula, and faucial pillars are partially visible.

  • Mallampatti class III: Only the soft palate is visible. This class is considered to have moderate airway visibility.

  • Mallampatti class IV: The soft palate, uvula, and faucial pillars are not visible. This class is considered to have poor airway visibility.




Mallampatti classification is a simple and quick tool that can be used by healthcare providers to predict the difficulty of intubation and to plan for alternative airway management techniques.

It is important to note that Mallampatti classification is not a definitive predictor of difficulty of intubation and other factors such as obesity, anatomical variations, and medical conditions can also affect visibility during laryngoscopy. Thus, it is always recommended to have a well-trained anesthesiologist or emergency medical technician who is familiar with various airway management techniques.

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