[Submental intubation: surgical and anesthesiological aspects]

In patients with cranio-maxillofacial trauma and in corrections of cranio-facial anomalies submental intubation may be used during surgery and postoperatively. In the period June 2001-May 2002 submental intubation was performed on five patients with cranio-maxillofacial trauma and on two patients with cranio-facial anomalies (Dubowitz syndrome (LeFort II osteotomy and distraction) in one patient and cheilognathopalatoschisis (Le Fort I osteotomy and distraction) in the other). In accordance with the literature the submental intubation technique was a useful, fast and safe technique which provides a secure airway during surgery. No postoperative intubation-related complications were seen in the group of patients. It provides the surgeon with an excellent view of the operation field and permits optimal intra-operative control of the dental occlusion. Combined procedures by the surgeon and the anaesthetist must be planned beforehand.