StyleTubation Applied for Difficult Airway With Post-Radiation Fibrosis and Halo-Vest Stabilization

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Otolaryngology
• Oncology

Background:

• Head and neck radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal cancer frequently leads to difficult airway management during subsequent surgeries.
• Patients often present with radiation-induced fibrosis, trismus, and anatomical changes affecting the airway.
• Cervical spine immobilization devices, like halo-vests, further complicate endotracheal intubation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the StyleTubation technique in managing difficult airways in a nasopharyngeal carcinoma patient with severe post-radiation fibrosis and halo-vest stabilization.
• To present a successful case of endotracheal intubation using StyleTubation in a challenging clinical scenario.

Main Methods:

• A case report detailing the application of StyleTubation (video intubating stylet technique).
• Pre-operative assessment included airway examination and imaging to identify potential difficulties.
• The technique involved using a video intubating stylet for endotracheal tube placement.

Main Results:

• Successful endotracheal intubation was achieved using the StyleTubation technique.
• The method proved effective in navigating the complex airway anatomy and limitations imposed by the halo-vest.

Conclusions:

• StyleTubation is a valuable tool for managing difficult airways in patients with nasopharyngeal cancer undergoing head and neck radiotherapy.
• This technique offers a viable option for endotracheal intubation in patients with severe post-radiation fibrosis and cervical spine immobilization.