Anaesthesia for maxillofacial surgery

Maxillofacial surgery covers a broad range of procedures on the head and neck, combining oral and facial procedures with the ear, nose and throat (ENT), plastics, neurosurgery and base of skull specialities. The main issues are that of managing a shared airway; providing good head, neck and oral access; the potential for difficult airways and measures to reduce tissue bleeding and oedema, both intra- and postoperatively. Good communication between all members of the team is essential.