Difficult airway in obstetric anesthesia: A review

Failed intubation and ventilation are important causes of anesthetic-relate d maternal mortality. The purpose of this article is to review the complex issues in managing the difficult airway in obstetric patients. The importan ce of prompt and competent decision making in managing difficult airways, a s well as a need for appropriate equipment is emphasized. Four case reports reinforce the importance of a systematic approach to management. The overa ll preference for regional rather than general anesthesia is strongly encou raged. The review also emphasizes the need for professional and experienced team cooperation between the obstetrician and the anesthesiologist for the successful management of these challenging cases.