Pediatric Difficult Airway Management: Key Strategies and Case Insights

Abstract

Pediatric difficult airway management poses significant challenges due to unique anatomical and physiological features, particularly in neonates and infants. We reported the case of a 3-month-old, 5200-gram male infant with dysmorphic features, including anencephaly, macrocephaly, microphthalmia, micrognathia, and nasal anomaly, who underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery. Following preoxygenation and induction with inhalation anesthesia and 4 mg/kg IV propofol, successful intubation was achieved using video laryngoscopy with a size 3.0 endotracheal tube. The surgery was completed without complications, and the patient was safely extubated in the intensive care unit. This case underscores the importance of individualized strategies and proficiency with video laryngoscopy for the safe and effective management of pediatric difficult airways. © 2025, Ondokuz Mayis Universitesi. All rights reserved.