The incidence of failed intubation is higher in pregnancy - 1:250 patients compared with 1:2000 in the general population.
Careful airway assessment can highlight problems and help predict a difficult intubation.
Pre-eclampsia is associated with laryngeal oedema and can increase the risk of difficult intubation.
If you suspect a difficult airway you may need more assistance.
How can you assess a patient's airway?
The incidence of failed intubation is higher in pregnancy - 1:250 patients compared with 1:2000 in the general population.
Careful airway assessment can highlight problems and help predict a difficult intubation.
Pre-eclampsia is associated with laryngeal oedema and can increase the risk of difficult intubation.
If you suspect a difficult airway you may need more assistance.
How can you assess a patient's airway?
Answer: Table 1 shows a summary of five airway tests.
| Test | Probably easy | Possibly difficult |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Mallampati 1-2 |
Mallampati 3-4 |
| 2 |
3 fingers mouth opening |
<3 fingers mouth opening |
| 3 |
≥90 ° flexion to extension |
<90 ° flexion to extension |
| 4 |
Lower incisors beyond upper |
Lower incisors do not reach upper |
| 5 |
Thyromental Distance >7cm |
Thyromental Distance <7cm Hard scarred tissues |
Table 1 Summary of five airway tests