Which physical characteristic increases the likelihood of difficult airway management?

Obesity and a short, thick neck are significant physical characteristics that can increase the likelihood of encountering difficult airway management. Individuals with obesity may have excess soft tissue around the neck and pharyngeal area, which can contribute to crowding and potential obstruction during intubation or spontaneous ventilation. A short, thick neck can further complicate these issues because it often limits the ability to visualize key anatomical structures, such as the vocal cords, during airway procedures.

In patients with a short, thick neck, the angle of approach to the airway may be less advantageous, making it harder to align the oral, pharyngeal, and laryngeal axes. This can lead to a higher rate of complications and challenges in performing successful airway management. The physical characteristics of obesity and neck morphology are well-documented risk factors for difficult intubation, known in clinical practice and guidelines. Therefore, awareness of these factors is crucial for healthcare providers when preparing for procedures requiring airway access.