ABSTRACT
The shared airway is one in which the surgeon s activities put the airway at risk. This can occur with mask or tube techniques.
When using a nasal mask with a spontaneously breathing patient, the dentist puts in a pack to seal off the oral cavity from the pharynx. The pack is to prevent debris falling into the pharynx and larynx. If the pack is correctly placed, the movement of the reservoir bag should be the same as when the mouth was closed. If it is not, the dentist needs to be asked to change the position of the pack.
