FLUOROSCOPY-ASSISTED INTUBATION OF A CHILD WITH AN UNSTABLE SUBLUXATION OF C1 C2/

Patients presenting with unstable cervical spine injuries are at risk for additional neurological injury as a consequence of airway manipula tion. Techniques of awake intubation may not always be desirable or pr actical, particularly in the pediatric patient. We describe the use of fluoroscopy during the induction of anesthesia and intubation of a ch ild with an unstable C1/C2 spinal subluxation. Fluoroscopy is readily available and noninvasive. This technique allows for rapid establishme nt and maintenance of optimal head and neck positioning during inducti on of general anesthesia and performance of laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation.