Innovative Techniques for Pediatric Airway Management: Intubation in Children with Maxillary Alveolar Cleft: A Case Report

Abstract

The patient was an 11-year-old girl, weighing 25 kg and measuring 125 cm in height, with a history of congenital cleft palate and previous surgeries (including cleft palate repair and cardiac procedures). She was referred for maxillary alveolar closure surgery. She experienced difficulty swallowing and dyspnea when consuming solids and liquids. During the preoperative evaluation, no significant comorbidities were identified, but anatomical changes in the nasopharynx suggested a defect in the previous repair. To ensure safe airway management and avoid nasopharyngeal injury during surgery, a modified intubation technique was employed. We used a flexible armored endotracheal tube that had been autoclaved at 45°C for 2 min. Anesthesia induction included propofol, fentanyl, and cis-atracurium. Intubation was successfully performed without complications. Postoperatively, the patient recovered well, showing no signs of trauma or airway distress. She was discharged on the first postoperative day with appropriate care recommendations.