The Laryngeal Mask Was Useful In A Patient With Cervical Spondylosis Placed In A Cervical Collar During Electroconvulsive Therapy

Abstract

Introduction: Airway management during ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy) is a concern in patients with cervical spine disease. We describe a case of airway management using a laryngeal mask and cervical collar during ECT in a patient with cervical spondylosis. Case description: A 74-year-old man with cervical spondylosis and depression was scheduled for ECT. He had been wearing a cervical collar to minimize exacerbation of paresthesia and numbness prior to surgical repair of the spondylosis. We planned to use a laryngeal mask for airway management during ECT. No mask ventilation was selected before insertion of the laryngeal mask. After providing 100% oxygen, anesthesia was induced. Ventilation was not initiated until muscular relaxation was judged adequate, and then the laryngeal mask was inserted. No change in symptoms of cervical spondylosis was observed after ECT. Conclusion: In addition to no mask ventilation, a laryngeal mask appeared effective for avoiding deterioration of cervical symptoms.