Airway management in pediatric patients: an update

Abstract

One of the crucial responsibilities of an anesthesiologist is to secure the airway for anesthesia or resuscitative purposes. The patients of pediatric age group differ from adults, both anatomically and physiologically. This is the basic reason that an anesthesiologist has to carefully evaluate and use specific devices and methods to safely manage the airway in pediatric patients. There are various syndromes that pose challenges in children due to distinctive pathology leading to difficult airway. In the present scenario in the field of anesthesia, many gadgets and tools are available that may assist in airway management in pediatrics. Though these devices resemble the ones used in adult age group but specific changes in methods may be employed to overcome the anatomical differences. This article deals with the perfect evaluation of airway as well as specific problems and their solutions in pediatric age group. The advances in simulation technology are quite helpful in providing training in the field of difficult pediatric airway. Following the recommended guidelines and algorithms would go a long way in securing a safe airway in pediatrics.
Citation: Malhotra SK, Khan ZH. Airway management in pediatric patients: an update. Anaesth Pain & Intensive Care 2018;22(4):­­529-538
Received – 13 November 2018; Reviewed – 3 December 2018; Corrected & Accepted – 20 December 2018