Open AccessAn Avulsed Tooth Detected Prior to Insertion of a Laryngeal Mask Airway
Author(s) -
Yoshinao Asahi,
Mary Hyodo,
Shoko Ikai,
Ikuko Deki,
Akira Aono,
Yoshito Takasaki,
Shiro Omichi,
Narikazu Uzawa,
Hitoshi Niwa
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
anesthesia progress
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1878-7177
pISSN - 0003-3006
DOI - 10.2344/anpr-66-04-01
Subject(s) - medicine , laryngoscopy , laryngeal mask airway , airway , anesthesia , pharynx , larynx , foreign body , laryngeal masks , accidental , surgery , rapid sequence induction , intubation , physics , acoustics
This case report describes the importance of inspecting the hypopharynx via direct laryngoscopy prior to laryngeal mask airway (LMA) insertion during induction of general anesthesia for dental patients with special needs. A 51-year-old man with cerebral palsy underwent induction of general anesthesia for dental extractions and subsequently was noted to be missing a tooth. Prompt inspection of the airway via direct laryngoscopy revealed the tooth resting within the pharynx, which was subsequently retrieved, prior to insertion of the LMA. Visual inspection of the oropharynx and hypopharynx by laryngoscopy prior to LMA insertion can be useful in preventing accidental aspiration and ingestion of foreign bodies, particularly with certain high-risk patients. Use of laryngoscopy should also be considered if an object is lost or possibly impinging upon the airway.