Anaesthesia for transoral craniocervical surgery.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurosurgery
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Transoral surgery is increasingly utilized for craniocervical region lesions.
• Anesthetic management for these procedures presents unique challenges.
• Limited data exists on the anesthetic considerations and outcomes for transoral craniocervical surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the anesthetic management strategies employed in transoral surgery for craniocervical lesions.
• To discuss the challenges and potential complications associated with this surgical approach.
• To review the outcomes, including mortality, in patients undergoing transoral craniocervical surgery.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 25 patients undergoing transoral surgery for craniocervical lesions.
• Detailed description of anesthetic techniques, including airway management (tracheostomy, nasotracheal intubation).
• Discussion of intraoperative monitoring, particularly for cord compression.

Main Results:

• Twenty-five patients underwent transoral surgery for craniocervical lesions.
• Both tracheostomy and nasotracheal intubation were utilized for airway management.
• Peroperative monitoring of cord compression remains a significant challenge.
• Two deaths occurred, attributed to anesthesia and surgical complications.

Conclusions:

• Transoral surgery for craniocervical lesions requires specialized anesthetic expertise.
• Airway management and intraoperative monitoring are critical aspects.
• The risks associated with anesthesia and surgery in this region necessitate careful consideration and management.