Abstract

The fact that the field of surgery is in close anatomical proximity to the airway and vital structures presents a unique anesthetic challenge. They usually share in the management of the airway, with the surgeon and anesthetist, thus calling for meticulous planning and coordination. These patients can have a wide range of complexities, including obstructive airway disease, distorted anatomy from tumors or trauma, as well as the requirement for special ventilation techniques. Main anesthetic concerns may include securing the airway in challenging cases, ensuring oxygenation, minimizing hemodynamic fluctuations, and management of postoperative pain and airway concerns. The choice of anesthetic agent and technique depends on the surgical requirement, patient factors, and nature of the operation. Improvements in technology such as providing high-flow nasal oxygen and videoassisted intubation devices have widened choices for safely managing the airway. This review discusses the challenges of anesthesia in otolaryngology surgeries by presenting proposed methods and ideal outcomes for the patient. Such an overview includes preoperative assessment, intraoperative considerations, and postoperative care, most of which require team interaction for effective management of such high-stakes procedures.