Airway management by i-gel for open tracheal resection and reconstruction via combined cervicotomy and sternotomy surgical approach: A case report

Abstract

Surgical resection and tracheal reconstruction are the most effective treatment options for airway stenosis. Tracheal surgery is challenging and requires a multidisciplinary approach and a highly specialized team of anesthesiologists and thoracic surgeons that are “sharing the airways”. Several airway management tools, different devices, and various approaches can be required to ensure ventilation and gas exchange. We describe the case of a patient affected by tight tracheal stenosis, submitted to tracheal resection and reconstruction via combined cervicotomy and sternotomy surgical approach. Airway management was successfully performed by i-gel® (Intersurgical, UK) supraglottic device.

Keywords

• airway management
• i-gel airway
• supraglottic airway
• thoracic anesthesia
• tracheal resection
• tracheal stenosis