An innovative approach to the intubation of cervical lipomas: Taking the easy way in!

Abstract

The use of videolaryngoscopes for difficult intubation as an adjunct has been established in the various international airway guidelines. However, planning a case of difficult intubation mandates the use of proper positioning in order that the intubation is successful and atraumatic. Various methods to facilitate proper positioning have been described that include the use of bolsters, preformed pillows, and ramps. The trials faced by anesthetists who attempt to successfully negotiate the difficult airway posed by cervical lipomas consist of difficulty faced during positioning for intubation, need for additional need for workforce during positioning, and the need to transfer an intubated, anesthetized patient for surgery while facing the risk of accidental disconnection and extubation. This case series describes an innovative method of positioning to assist intubation that requires no additional equipment, reduces the chances of accidents during positioning, and in conjunction with the use of videolaryngoscope simplifies a difficult airway procedure.

Keywords

• cervical lipoma
• difficult airway
• intubation
• videolaryngoscope