Positioning and Anesthesia Challenges In a Morbidly Obese Patient Undergoing Cervical Spine Surgery

Abstract

Background Context: By itself, the perioperative anesthesia management of morbidly obese patients is challenging; this task is further complicated when such patients have to be placed in the prone position for surgery. In these cases, challenges may include positioning, intubation and ventilation.
Purpose: Herein, we describe the safe perioperative anesthesia care of a morbidly obese patient undergoing cervical spine surgery for an enlarging schwannoma.
Study Setting: Morbidly obese patient care at a tertiary cancer institute.
Patient Sample: Single case report.
Methods: Describing the preparation and planning for this complex case and the perioperative care of a patient with several comorbidities. No conflict of interest to report for any of the authors.
Results: Good patient outcome.
Conclusion: Careful multi-disciplinary planning facilitates, good patient outcome, given the challenging nature of the case. Highlighting the use of a trial run in the operating prior to the day of surgery.