Airway preparedness in an anticipated difficult airway- the nexus of airway management

A potentially challenging airway can be detrimental to patient outcomes if not approached cautiously. In the Closed Claims Analysis performed by the American Society of Anesthesiology, failed intubation remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality. The management of an anticipated difficult airway is highly variable and is based on many factors, including the anaesthesiologist's skill set and resource availability. The management of an anticipated difficult airway is highly variable and is based on many factors, including the anaesthesiologist's skill set and resource availability. Airway preparedness is crucial in the setting of an anticipated difficult airway.