Question

Which of the following is not an indication of Retrograde intubation?

1) failure of DL
2) obstruction of the view of the vocal cords by blood, secretions, or anatomic derangement
3) unstable cervical spine
4) Obese

Answer 1

Obesity alone is not considered an indication for retrograde intubation, which is primarily used when direct laryngoscopy fails or is contraindicated due to airway obstruction or an unstable cervical spine.

Step-by-step explanation:

Retrograde intubation is a technique used in anesthesia to secure a patient's airway when conventional methods fail. The indications for retrograde intubation typically include situations where direct laryngoscopy (DL) is unsuccessful or contraindicated. These scenarios might involve severe airway obstruction, including obstruction of the view of the vocal cords by blood or secretions, or specific anatomic irregularities. It is also considered in cases where an unstable cervical spine makes the manipulation of the head and neck dangerous. However, obesity alone is not a direct indication for retrograde intubation. While being obese might make intubation more challenging, it does not necessarily require the use of retrograde techniques unless accompanied by other complicating factors.