Evolving trends in airway management for laryngeal stenosis

Abstract

Laryngotracheal stenosis management requires surgical visualization and access, while safely oxygenating and ventilating the patient. The objective of this chapter is to review the ventilation techniques for laryngotracheal stenosis including spontaneous ventilation, intermittent apnea, jet ventilation, laryngeal mask airway and transnasal humidified rapid insufflation ventilatory exchange. Multiple modalities for ventilation should be present and available in the operating room prior to the start of the procedure. Planning and communication of the airway plan between the surgeon, anesthesia team, and operating room staff is paramount. Obesity and lung disease continue to be a challenging factor in maintaining safe ventilation, and appropriate precautions must be taken in this setting for rescue ventilation.