Anesthetic Management of a Patient With Eagle's Syndrome: A Case Study

Eagle's syndrome is a condition characterized by elongation of the styloid process or calcification of the styloid ligament that can manifest as a constellation of symptoms including dysphagia, globus sensation, hoarseness, headache, and neck pain. Anatomically, this can impinge neurovascular structures, distort the hypopharynx, and stiffen the epiglottis and other pharyngeal structures, increasing the difficulty of airway management. The objective of this case study was to discuss the features of Eagle's syndrome and anesthetic considerations in the management of the condition. Intubation may be challenging and presents a scenario where a glidescope is the preferred tool over direct laryngoscopy. Smooth emergence and extubation strategies, including the novel use of lidocaine and dexmedetomidine, are followed to minimize the risk of surgical complications.