Submental Intubation in a Case of Panfacial Fractures in a Paediatric Patient: A Case Report

Maxillofacial fractures can pose a challenge to the anaesthesiologist especially in securing the airway. The oral route of endotracheal intubation is unsuitable in surgical treatment requiring intraoperative maxillomandibular fixation and temporary occlusion of teeth. The nasal route may also pose a problem or may be contraindicated. Tracheostomy is an alternative, though it has a high likelihood of complications. Submental intubation offers an easy, rapid, and efficient substitute for oral and nasal tracheal intubation or tracheostomy in such patients. It does not interfere with the surgical field, provides simultaneous access to the nasal and oral airways, good dental occlusion with minimal morbidity.