Accidental Extubation in the Prone Position during Surgery in a Patient with a Difficult Airway: Case Report

Abstract

Unintentional extubation during prone-position surgery is a rare but critical airway emergency in anesthetic practice. We report a case of a 41-year-old obese female with predictors of a difficult airway undergoing elective lumbar laminectomy. Intraoperative dislodgement of the endotracheal tube, likely due to inadequate fixation, was promptly identified. Prone mask ventilation with an oropharyngeal airway maintained oxygenation until safe repositioning and reintubation were achieved. This case highlights the importance of rapid recognition, effective prone ventilation, and coordinated team response in managing airway emergencies in non-supine positions to optimize patient outcomes