A MODIFICATION OF SUB-MENTAL INTUBATION

In patients who have sustained base of skull fractures, the mode of in tubation is controversial, with many anaesthetists arguing against nas al intubation. In several maxillofacial procedures temporary intermaxi llary fixation (IMF) in the intraoperative period may be essential to achieve optimal results in fixation. For patients with combined facial and base of skull injury, tracheotomy may have to be performed. The s ubmental approach to intubation allows IMF to be used without resort t o nasal intubation or tracheotomy. We describe a modification of the o riginal technique which is applicable to any reinforced tracheal tube and which does not compromise the airway.