Ludwig's angina and airway considerations: a case report

Anand H Kulkarni , Swarupa D Pai , Basant Bhattarai , Sumesh T Rao and M Ambareesha

Department of Anesthesiology, Kasturba Medical College, Attavar, Mangalore, India

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Cases Journal 2008, 1:19doi:10.1186/1757-1626-1-19


Published:	20 June 2008

Abstract

Introduction

Patients with deep neck infections present challenging airways for an anesthesiologist. Patients with Ludwig's angina may die as a result of the inability to effectively manage the airway.

Case presentation

Here we discuss the anesthetic management with fiberoptic intubation of a 45-year-old man with Ludwig's angina scheduled for emergency drainage.

Conclusion

Awake fiberoptic intubation under topical anesthesia may be the ideal method to secure the airway in advanced cases of Ludwig's angina. When fiberoptic bronchoscopy is not feasible, not available or has failed, an awake tracheostomy may be the preferred option.