Anesthetic management of a large cystic hygroma in a newborn

Cystic hygroma is a congenital benign tumor occurring due to the accumulation of lymph and during its anesthetic management difficulties are known to be encountered. A newborn baby presented with a massive swelling in the front of the neck. It was an antenatally diagnosed case of cystic hygroma with intraoral extension proving to be an anticipated difficult airway. Following inhalational induction, mask ventilation was possible, and the child was successfully intubated. Intra-operative period was uneventful, and the tumor was completely excised. Postoperatively, the child was ventilated for 24 h in view of anticipated airway edema.