Can a patient request nasal intubation for their surgery instead of endotracheal intubation?

Question

I'm interested in getting breast augmentation for myself done, but I know these surgeries are commonly performed using endotracheal intubation. I'm an osteoporosis patient taking oral bisphosphonate and I'm worried about any soft tissue trauma in the mouth triggering osteonecrosis of the jaw. I know that insertion/removal of endotracheal intubation (and blade of the laryngoscope) can cause unintentional injury to soft tissue. Can patients request nasal intubation instead?

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry and interesting question.  A nasal intubation could be performed but in many techniques requires the blade of laryngoscope to perform the intubation.  A nasoendoscope or other imaging devices could be used to make the entire intubation nasal based, but in case of any technical challenges might have to be addressed through the mouth again as well.  Please discuss with your surgeon's anesthesiologist if this is feasible in the setting your surgery would be performed and best of luck.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.
This is something you would need to discuss with your surgeon. Schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options. Best wishes!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You can request nasal intubation but I encourage you to discuss your concerns with the anesthesiologist prior to your surgery day.  It's important that you feel comfortable and confident in your surgery and surgical team as you prepare.  This includes having your questions ed answered and concerns addressed.

Alfred R. Antonetti, MD · Answer

You could request a nasal intubation but the anesthetist may not want to do it because a nasal intubation is much more traumatic and uncomfortable and less safe than an oral intubation. The anesthetist and your surgeon are interested in what is best for you. Trust them.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The nasal tube and oral tube both are placed through your vocal cords into your throat. Neither intubation process will damage your jaw, and the amount of "trauma" with intubation is actually greater with nasal intubation. However, you can request nasal intubation if your septum is not severely deviated.

Can a patient request nasal intubation for their surgery instead of endotracheal intubation?

Answers (6)

Answer: Nasal intubation

Answer: Nasal intubation

Answer: Surgery

Answer: Surgery

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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Can a patient request nasal intubation for their surgery instead of endotracheal intubation?

Answers (6)

Answer: Nasal intubation

Answer: Nasal intubation

Answer: Surgery

Answer: Surgery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.