Supraglottic Tumor Biopsy in a Patient with Spinal Stenosis

Abstract

Objective: 1) To discuss the management of head and neck cancer in the setting of spinal stenosis. 2) To demonstrate a novel use of the GlideScope to facility direct laryngoscopy and biopsy in a patient with severe spinal stenosis.

Method: In this case report, we present a 53 year-old woman with a 1.5-cm mass rising from the left aryepiglottic fold and severe narrowing of the C5-C6 spinal canal. Using a GlideScope to obtain indirect visualization, we successfully completed this procedure with the cervical spine in the neutral position.

Results: A survey of the anesthesia literature demonstrates the benefit of the GlideScope for visualization of the larynx while maintaining the cervical spine in the neutral position. This technique allowed successful direct laryngoscopy and biopsy in a patient with moderate to severe spinal stenosis.

Conclusion: Our novel approach allowed reasonable visualization and biopsy of this supraglottic tumor while maintaining cervical spine stabilization.