Infantile Cystic Hygroma: An Unusual Perioperative Course

Airway management of an infant with a giant cervical lump may be a difficult task. The anesthesiologist must be prepared to face associated challenges during securing the airway in such patients. We report our experience with One year old infant who presented with huge cystic hygroma in the cervical region leading to recurrent episodes of respiratory tract infection and distress. Surgical removal was needed as sclerotherapy proved ineffective in reducing its size. Proseal laryngeal mask airway was used as a conduit after inhalational induction since airway could not be maintained with bag and mask. The child was tracheostomized postoperatively and also had a prolonged Intensive Care Unit stay. Difficulties encountered in intubation and postoperative management of this child are discussed in this report.