Anesthetic Management of a Patient With Ankylosing Spondylitis Undergoing Orthognathic Surgery

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic disease that causes inflammation in the spine and joints, leading to ankylosis and contracture as the disease progresses. Patients with AS are prone to bone fractures, particularly cervical spine fractures. Therefore, problems such as intubation difficulties, impaired ventilation, and complications related to stabilizing and securing the patient's body position can accompany surgery under general anesthesia. Herein, we report the anesthetic management of a 54-year-old patient with mild AS who underwent orthognathic surgery under intubated general anesthesia. The McGRATH MAC video laryngoscope with an X blade was used for tracheal intubation, and the Magic Cast stabilization device was used to secure the patient's head and neck. The patient remained stable and secure throughout the surgery, which was safely completed. The Magic Cast device was useful for stabilizing the head and neck of a patient with mild AS during orthognathic surgery. However, patients with more severe AS may require additional considerations in preparation for airway and stabilization concerns.