Airway management in a morbidly obese patient with impending airway obstruction

Abstract

Peritonsillar abscess is not an uncommon referral to the otorhinolaryngology team. Treatment entails incision and drainage, followed by antibiotics. Emergent treatment is required to avoid complications such as extension into deep neck spaces, like retropharyngeal and danger space, which may result in spread into the mediastinum and airway obstruction. Herein, we describe peritonsillar abscess management in a morbidly obese woman who presented with peritonsillar abscess with impending airway obstruction. We highlight the importance of multidisciplinary team involvement in managing the difficult airway as well as the preparedness of the difficult airway team.