Emergency Department Management of the Airway in Obese Adults

Airway management in obese adults can be challenging, and much of the literature on this subject focuses on elective surgical cases, rather than acutely ill patients In this article, we review the emergency department evaluation of the airway in obesity, discussing anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology In addition, we describe techniques and devices used to improve intubating conditions in the obese patient. After our review of the relevant literature, we conclude that research in this particular area of acute care remains in its infancy. [Ann Emerg Med 2010;56:95-104.]