Submental Intubation: Brief Literature Review and Case Report

Bezerra MCT., Marinho KCT

Abstract: Facial fractures are often associated with the nasoorbitoetmoidal complex (NOE) and maxillary bones (maxilla and/or mandible), making it difficult to choose intubation for airway maintenance. The submental intubation technique has emerged as an alternative for selected cases, being easy to perform and with a low complication rate. The aim of the present study is to realize a literature review and report the case of an 18-year-old male, with a motorcycle accident evolving with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and multiple facial fractures. Submental intubation was performed due to a cranial base fracture and also the need of the use of the oclusion as a guide for fracture reduction and fixation. The procedure evolved uneventfully, being the patient in postoperative follow-up and without any signs of complications. Submental intubation offers a viable, easy-to-perform, and safer alternative to other techniques.

Keywords: Submental Intubation, Airway, Facial Trauma