General anaesthesia in a child with Larsen syndrome

Abstract

Larsen syndrome is a rare congenital connective tissue disorder which is characterized by multiple dislocations of major joints, typical facial appearance, cervical spine narrowing and instability and respiratory difficulties secondary to laryngotracheomalacia. A case of general anaesthesia for laparoscopic hernia repair in a male child aged 16 months with this syndrome is presented. Anaesthesia was well tolerated though intubation proved difficult. Cervical spine instability and postoperative respiratory complications are potential problems.