Anatomy and assessment of the pediatric airway

Airway and respiratory complications are the most common causes of morbidity during general anesthesia in children. The airway changes in size, shape and position throughout its development from the neonate to the adult ( 1 ). Knowledge of the functional anatomy of the airway in children forms the basis of understanding the pathological conditions that may occur. This in turn allows a comprehensive assessment of the pediatric airway to take place, including a detailed medical history, clinical examination and specific investigative procedures.