The use of a laryngeal mask airway for emergent airway management in a prone child

Anesth Analg. 2005 Mar;100(3):670-671. doi: 10.1213/01.ANE.0000146512.48688.FA.

Abstract

A 5-yr-old girl with Arnold-Chiari Malformation, Type 1, was accidentally tracheally extubated while positioned prone in a Mayfield neurosurgical headrest during a decompressive craniectomy and cervical laminectomy. While preparations were being made to return the patient to the supine position for reintubation, we placed a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) without difficulty. The child was kept in the prone position with the LMA in place using positive-pressure ventilation for the remainder of the operation. This case report emphasizes the practical, emergent use of a LMA to secure the airway of a pediatric patient in the prone position after accidental extubation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child, Preschool
  • Emergencies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Laryngeal Masks*
  • Prone Position*