LAUSR

Lesions of the larynx necessitating surgery include a wide range of pathologies and presentations. For the anesthesiologist and the operating surgeon, the airway poses a great challenge, as it is a shared space during laryngeal surgery. Establishing an effective airway for proper ventilation while maintaining visualization and operative access to a laryngeal lesion can be very difficult. Thorough preoperative airway evaluation, appropriate choice of anesthesia delivery, as well as preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative airway management is imperative. Above all, a proper understanding of the lesion and a detailed surgical and anesthetic plan with appropriate backup options are key for an effective and safe operation. This article will review the elements of patient care that should be considered when providing general anesthesia for laryngeal surgery.