Ludwig's angina: a case report and review of airway management options

Ludwig's angina is a rare, but potentially life-threatening, diffuse cellulitis of the neck and the floor of the mouth, usually secondary to odontogenic infection. It has an acute onset and spreads rapidly,affecting the deep spaces of the neck and leading to oedema, distortion and obstruction of the airway.Early diagnosis and immediate treatment are essential to avoid complications. The appropriate use of antibiotics, airway protection techniques, and formal surgical drainage of the abscess remains the standard protocol of treatment in cases of Ludwig's angina.We report a case of a 65 year old male, diagnosed with Ludwig’s angina ofodontogenicorigin, which later got complicated with necrotising fasciitis, along with a review of the available airway management options during surgical drainage.