Unanticipated difficult airway cesarean delivery algorithm

For further details refer to UpToDate topic on airway management of the pregnant patient at delivery.

SGA: supraglottic airway; FSI: flexible scope intubation.
* Change technique:

Optimize head position
Different laryngoscope blade
Alternate technique (eg, video laryngoscope, light wand, bougie)
More experienced clinician

¶ Repeated attempts at laryngoscopy may result in difficult mask ventilation.
Δ Consider SGA placement.
◊ Invasive airway techniques include surgical tracheotomy, cricothyrotomy, retrograde intubation, and transtracheal ventilation.
§ Examples of unstable maternal condition: maternal hemorrhage, cardiac arrest, amniotic fluid embolism.
¥ Refer to UpToDate content on anticipated difficult airway for cesarean delivery.

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