Die fiberoptische Intubation neurochirurgischer Patienten*

Patients with cervical spine injury presenting with respiratory distress require airway management that does not compromise integrity of the atlanto-occipital joint. Endotracheal intubation by means of direct laryngoscopy is not suitable. The method of choice is nasotracheal intubation of the awake patient, using a flexible fibre bronchoscope. If anatomy or surgical access render the nasal approach impossible, fibre optic intubation can be performed orotracheally, utilising specific technical aids. Flexible fibrescopes are available in different sizes (length and diameter): selection is base on the patient's anatomical requirements. Aids to orotracheal intubation are constructed with a bore…