HNO
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Extended tumors of the oral cavity, pharynx or larynx can severely compromise the performance of a necessary endotracheal intubation. Both transnasal fiberoptic intubation under spontaneous breathing as well as tracheotomy under local anesthesia require a great deal of cooperation from the awake patient. In cases with dyspnea due to a recurrent tumor the situation is much more difficult. These patients are often in a reduced general condition, show a lack of cooperation and often have postoperative or radiogenic scars of the pharyngeal and laryngeal structures. ⋯ In selected cases with extended tumors of the upper airway, temporary cricothyrotomy is an effective and convenient procedure to secure the respiratory tract.