title: [Extubation of the difficult airway].
abstract: Extubation, like intubation, is a critical moment in general anesthesia. There are no algorithms or ordered sequences of steps for extubation. Rather, the approach to take is strict observation of the patient in a setting equipped with monitors, material for managing the difficult airway, and experienced staff who should be able to establish access immediately, provide oxygen, and facilitate gas exchange, keeping the airway open and safeguarding it in case of a failed extubation attempt. This review will analyze the clinical conditions and pathophysiology associated with extubations at high risk of complications. We will describe strategies for extubating in situations in which a difficult airway is known or suspected.
authors.affiliation: Servicio de Anestesiología y Reanimación, Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves, Granada. cdelalinde@telefonica.net
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: de la Linde Valverde
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D007442:Intubation, Intratracheal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*