Principles of airway management

Question 1

Difficulty in obtstetric intubation ?

Answer 1

1. Upper airway is more vascular and oedematous thus increased risk of bleeding and swelling
2. Decreased FRC
3. Progesterone reducing LOS tone - Increased risk of reflux
4. Delayed gastric emptying due to labour
5. Enlarged breast tissue
6. Decline in GA use - Hence experience