The difficult airway: Implications for the otolaryngologist–head and neck surgeon

Clinical situations arise in which maintenance of adequate ventilation becomes technically difficult, often either in an emergency setting or perioperatively. The otolaryngologist–head and neck surgeon is frequently called upon to provide expertise in airway management. The present article discusses approaches to the patient with a difficult airway. Problems are divided into either acute or elective situations. Algorithmic approaches and specific techniques are reviewed.