Anesthesiology Commons^™

A Case Of Cannot Intubate, Cannot Ventilate, Evan Davidson Md, Su Min Oon

Anesthesiology

69M with a PMH of parotid gland carcinoma status post resection and radiation therapy with extensive reconstruction, G-tube placement, COPD, multiple tracheostomies with takedowns (with refusal permanent tracheostomy over objections of family members) presented for CTR and ulnar tunnel exploration. With plans of MAC, an axillary block was placed and maintained on minimal propofol infusion. After administration of 50 mcg fentanyl due to pain, he was noted to be apnic. Ventilation via mask and #3 LMA failed, as well as placement of an 6 mm ET tube. Eventually, patient was ventilated via emergency surgical cricothyroidotomy. He was discharged on POD4.