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Updated: Feb 6, 2026

A Novel Rescue Technique for Difficult Intubation and Difficult Ventilation
Published on: January 17, 2011
Nasal cannula technique for ventilating during the administration of general anesthesia in neonates and pediatric
Karen Galloway1, Camilo Fernandez-Salvador2, Kenneth Heffner1
1Department of Surgery, Division of Anesthesiology, Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, HI, USA.
Abstract:
Objective: Minor surgeries on the oral cavity, e.g., frenulectomies, are often performed under general mask anesthesia. The objective is to present the nasal cannula technique for ventilating step-by-step method for ventilating during general anesthesia for minor surgeries in neonates and pediatric patients. Technique: The nasal cannula technique for ventilating has been used in over 20 pediatric cases (neonates and toddlers), without the need to re-mask during the procedure and without complications or oxygen desaturations. After induction of general mask anesthesia, propofol with or without adjunctive ketamine is administered. The anesthesia mask is exchanged with a nasal cannula, using the largest sized prongs that accommodate the nares, and the nasal cannula is connected to the anesthesia circuit. This permits administration of inspired fractions of oxygen. Conclusion: The nasal cannula technique for ventilating provides a safe method for delivering general anesthesia and ventilating during minor surgeries for neonates and pediatric patients.
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