Submental orotracheal intubation: A better alternative to tracheostomy in panfacial fractures

Surgical repair of complex maxillofacial trauma presents a challenge to the surgeon and anaesthetist. Submental intubation is an alternative where oral and nasal intubation cannot be used. We present a case where tracheostomy was avoided in a patient with multiple maxillofacial fractures by opting for sub-mental endotracheal intubation technique. Time required for intubation, accidental extubation, postoperative complications, and the healing of intraoral and submental scars were evaluated. The technique avoids the complications associated with tracheostomy.