Are there concerns with using droperidol for sedation for an awake fiberoptic intubation?

Abstract

A 60-year-old patient with a history of squamous cell carcinoma on the floor of his mouth presents for esophageal dilation, which is needed after his radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery. The tumor was completely resected, and he has a flap to his face and neck to cover an extensive wound. Of late, he has had a problem of eating solid food as a result of a narrowed esophageal lumen. It is hoped that the dilation will allow him to eat and maintain his current weight. From the airway examination and history, it is obvious that an awake fiberoptic intubation is the safest course of action. Due to what appears to be a treacherous airway, a second attending anesthesiologist is asked to join the resident and assigned anesthesiologist.