Endotracheal intubation in the lateral decubitus position: A case report

Abstract

A 60-year old woman presented with a 2-year history of abdominal distension, early satiety, weight loss, bilateral leg swelling and difficult breathing. Clinical examination had to be conducted in the semi-recumbent position, as the patient was very uncomfortable in the supine position. A diagnosis of advanced intra-abdominal tumour was made, and the patient was scheduled for laparotomy. With the patient in the lateral decubitus position, induction of anaesthesia, endotracheal intubation and laparotomy were done. Laryngoscopy and intubation were relatively easy. A huge right ovarian mass weighing 29kg, was excised at surgery. Anaesthesia and surgery were successful, without adverse incidents. She developed postoperative pulmonary oedema, that resolved after 5 days of treatment. She was discharged on the 20th postoperative day.

Sahel Medical Journal Vol. 10 (1) 2007: pp. 34-37