Flexible laryngoscopy in neonates and infants: insertion through a median opening in the face mask

The most common reasons for laryngoscopy in newborns and infants are inspiratory stridor and/or dyspnea. With the help of flexible endoscopes, especially with instruments of diminished diameter, laryngoscopy can be carried out even in premature newborns. We report on a technique of flexible laryngoscopy without the need for restraint and with improved safety. A modified face mask is used for endoscopy. An additional hole is made into the mask with a 4.5 mm drill. It is located in the midline just above the nostrils, about 2.5 cm above the ventilation opening. The flexible endoscope is passed into the nose and pharynx with ease. It does not interfere with the anesthetist's ventilation by the mask. In inhalation anesthesia with halothane, 100% oxygen is supplied. The larynx remains in its physiological position. The head is not retroflexed, and the tongue is not supported by an endoscope as in direct laryngoscopy. No muscle relaxation is used, and muscular activity of the larynx can be observed during spontaneous and assisted ventilation.