Failed intubation is a stressful scenario that is relatively rare. If managed poorly, problems with airway management can cause the patient to suffer soft tissue damage and, at worst, hypoxic brain damage and death.

Management must primarily concentrate on the prevention and treatment of hypoxaemia and not the act of intubation.

This session will cover the definitions and diagnosis of failed intubation, and review the protocols designed by the Difficult Airway Society (DAS) to deal with these situations.

The seriousness and urgency of a failed intubation scenario is determined by whether or not it is possible achieve adequate ventilation and oxygenation.

It is essential to have made and practiced a back-up plan for airway management before starting any anaesthetic.