Anesthesia & Clinical Research
Open Access

Abstract

A Case of Severe Head and Neck Post-Burn Contractures: Fiberoptic Intubation through an I-Gel Laryngeal Mask Maintaining Spontaneous Ventilation

Joana Guimaraes, Catia Real, Rita Frada, Jorge Orfao and Humberto Machado

Airway management in patients with head and neck contractures can be very challenging. Severe facial and neck scars may predict difficult mask ventilation. Difficult intubation should also be expected. We analyzed the airway management in an adolescent with severe post burn head and neck contractures. The challenges during airway approach are discussed and a comprehensive analysis regarding the option for fiberoptic intubation using an I-gel laryngeal mask as a conduit is also performed. Considering the scarce literature in this topic, the techniques described here represent an important contribute to the process of decision-making when planning the airway approach in these patients.