Laryngospasm following orthognathic surgery: an unusual case report

Abstract

This study discusses laryngospasm following orthognathic surgery and requiring emergency intubation, followed by systemic complications due to a hypoxic event. A 34-year-old male patient underwent orthognathic surgery due to facial asymmetry. When emerging from general anesthesia, blood pressure elevated suddenly, and severe agitation occurred. After extubation, desaturation occurred immediately, resulting in cyanosis and loss of consciousness. An emergency cricothyroidotomy was performed, and oral intubation was required to maintain the airway. The patient was sent to the intensive care unit on a ventilator. On postoperative day 2, the red blood cell count and hemoglobin level decreased significantly. Electrocardiogram showed abnormalities, although vital signs were stable and no bleeding was observed. Laryngospasm often occurs under general anesthesia, resulting in sustained closure of the vocal cords and obstruction of the airway. This condition can be life-threatening, and awareness of the various precipitating factors is important. Orthognathic surgery is a risk factor for laryngospasm because its surgical site affects the airway, and it involves discharge of blood via intraoral wounds. It is important to understand systemic changes occurring after a hypoxic event, and consultation with specialists from various departments should be actively pursued.