Application of "twelve-step" approach based on SEEK for difficult awake tracheal intubation in patients with cervical spinal tumor.

Difficult airway always occurs in patients with cervical spinal tumor. Awake tracheal intubation (ATI) is usually a primary safe approach for clinical doctors in these intractable difficult airways. It is of great significance to establish specific strategies to reduce related acute airway accidents. A novel "twelve-step" approach of awake tracheal intubation based on an improved introducer (Safe Easy Endotracheal Kit-flexible, "SEEK") was developed and practiced in model successfully. Patients with cervical spinal tumor in a single tertiary hospital were chosen to secure airway with this approach. Primary outcomes were safety and feasibility, defined as completion of ATI without serious adverse events, Secondary outcome was the first intubation attempt rate, total intubation time, satisfaction of patients in the whole process and relevant complications. We performed awake tracheal intubation with this approach to solve the difficult airway in five patients with cervical spinal tumor. The courses went successfully in all patients without any relevant complications. This novel "twelve-step" approach based on SEEK for ATI can be considered as one of optional safe choices for difficult airway in patients with cervical spinal tumor.