Bilateral TMJ Ankylosis with limited mouth opening in pediatric patients: An anesthetic challenge

Abstract

Restricted mouth opening is a challenging airway in pediatric patients with temperomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis. The fiber-optic bronchoscopic nasotracheal intubation technique continues to be the gold standard for difficult airway, among the techniques available such as submandibular intubation, retrograde intubation, and tracheostomy. However, awake fiber-optic bronchoscopy (FOB) is difficult to achieve in pediatric patients. Prior planning of the anesthetic method and effective collaboration with the surgeon are crucial for excellent outcomes in such challenging airway cases. We present a successful awake fiber-optic bronchoscopy with high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO), airway blocks, and deep sedation in the case of bilateral TMJ ankylosis of a pediatric age group with reduced mouth opening. We conclude that awake intubation using HFNO and airway blocks helps to achieve oxygenation and ease of intubation in difficult airway management.

Keywords: Airway; HFNO; TMJ ankylosis; limited mouth opening; pediatric difficult airway; sedation.