Ivana Bure? VALENTI?, Kre?imir REINER
Turkish Journal of Anaesthesiology and Reanimation - 2026;54(3):217-220
Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS) is a rare congenital condition defined by the fusion of one or more cervical vertebrae, often associated with a range of skeletal and extra-skeletal abnormalities. The presence of cervical vertebral fusion and spinal deformities can make both airway management and neuraxial anaesthesia technically challenging in this population. This report describes a primigravida with KFS who underwent an elective caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia. The preparation included consideration of a potentially difficult airway, even though general anaesthesia had not initially been planned. We reviewed relevant literature on anaesthetic management in similar cases. There is no consensus on the optimal anaesthetic technique for the management of parturients with KFS undergoing caesarean section. Each case should be evaluated individually. It is essential to prepare for potential conversion to general anaesthesia and always prioritize patient safety.
