[Intubation problems of anesthesia in otorhinolaryngology]

Many pathological changes in pharynx and larynx can cause problems in endotracheal intubation. Their preliminary signs and symptoms are often uncharacteristic. Thus prophylaxis is not always possible. Some representative diseases of larynx and pharynx are demonstrated by means of endoscopic photographs and by case reports. The photos were taken during endoscopic examinations in an ENT-clinic. The method of anaesthesia used in these cases is described, as well as prophylactic measures to be taken, if a difficult intubation may be expected. Finally, the procedure in case of an unexpected critical intubation is discussed.