Management of Airway in the Cancer Patients
摘要
The scope of cancer airway management encompasses handling the airway in various conditions during cancer treatment. In some patients, the airway issues remain a lifelong problem. Head and neck cancers account for approximately 4% of all malignancies in the United States, posing significant challenges to airway management. Around 90% of malignancies affecting the aerodigestive tract are squamous cell carcinomas. Clinically, the manifestations of airway-involved cancers are governed more by anatomical site than histological subtype. Key concerns include obstruction of airflow, distortion or narrowing of the intubation pathway, and dynamic changes due to treatment-related effects. These conditions often necessitate detailed and nuanced assessment strategies. Successful airway management in cancer patients requires an individualized, multidisciplinary approach. Evaluation modalities include physical examination, advanced imaging, and endoscopic inspection to characterize the anatomy, evaluate patency, and anticipate complications. The airway plan must be meticulously tailored, with input from anesthesiologists, head and neck surgeons, oncologists, and nursing personnel. Such collaborative efforts are crucial to preempt and mitigate risks, especially in patients with high-grade obstruction or prior treatment history.