Anesthetic Risks Associated With Antley-Bixler Syndrome

Abstract

Antley-Bixler syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by multiple bone and cartilaginous abnormalities. The main features of this syndrome include brachycephaly, midface hypoplasia, dysplasia of ears and nose, radiohumeral synostosis, choanal stenosis, or atresia. Distinctive features are based on craniofacial deformity and humeroradial synostosis. In this report, we describe the anesthesia management of a 20-year-old Antley-Bixler syndrome patient who underwent maxillary advancement via Le Fort I osteotomy. During surgical management of craniofacial syndrome patients, particularly Antley-Bixler syndrome, the whole surgical team should be aware of possible deformities involving the airway, which may be underestimated or nondetected prior to surgery. These deformities including choanal atresia/stenosis may lead to failure of nasotracheal intubation and mask ventilation, therefore jeopardizing the surgical procedure and/or patient safety. Accurate preoperative preparation and being aware of the components of this syndrome is vital to eliminate respiratory complications and enable uneventful anesthetic and surgical management.