Abstract
BackgroundSevere deformity of the thoracolumbar spine may cause difficulty in airway management during induction of anesthesia. Therefore, special attention must be devoted to patient safety.Case presentationA 65-year-old male with severe thoracolumbar kyphosis was scheduled to undergo posterior spinal fusion under general anesthesia. Due to his inability to lie supine, conventional tracheal intubation under direct laryngoscopy was difficult. Alternatively, face-to-face tracheal intubation using a lightwand in the semi-recumbent position was performed. Intubation was successful on the first attempt without any complications.ConclusionsThe face-to-face intubation technique using a lightwand is one of several alternative techniques for tracheal intubation in patients who cannot lie supine.
Highlights
Severe deformity of the thoracolumbar spine may cause difficulty in airway management during induction of anesthesia
As most patients with severe kyphosis cannot be appropriately placed in the supine position, there can be significant difficulty in performing direct or video laryngoscopy; an alternative intubation technique is required [1]
We report a successful face-to-face intubation using a lightwand in a patient with severe thoracolumbar kyphosis
Summary
Severe deformity of the thoracolumbar spine may cause difficulty in airway management during induction of anesthesia. As most patients with severe kyphosis cannot be appropriately placed in the supine position, there can be significant difficulty in performing direct or video laryngoscopy; an alternative intubation technique is required [1]. The face-to-face intubation technique is such an alternative, and may provide an appropriate approach in patients in a sitting position [2].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
