The document outlines key differences between pediatric and adult airways in terms of anatomical structure. It highlights that infants have a relatively larger tongue, a narrower and u-shaped epiglottis, and a larynx positioned higher and more anteriorly. Additionally, it notes that the cricoid cartilage is more conically shaped and narrower in children compared to adults.

1. Pediatric v/s Adult
Airway Difference
GOURAV SINGH
DEPARTMENT OF OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY
AIIMS
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2. Infants are different !!!
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3. Tongue
Larger in proportion to oral cavity than in adult
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4. Epiglottis
Narrower, U-Shaped & flops posteriorly
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5. Larynx
High & Anterior, at level of C3-C4 (C5-C6 in adults)
Larynx C3-C4 (Pediatric) Larynx C5-C6 (Adult)
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6. Cricoid
More conical & narrowest part in children
Adult PediatricAdultPediatric
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7. The Pediatric Airway
Structure Difference
Tongue Larger in proportion to oral cavity than in adult
Epiglottis Narrower, U-shaped, flops posteriorly
Larynx High & Anterior, at level of C3-C4 (C5-C6 in adults)
Cricoid More conically shaped in infants, Narrowest at cricoid
ring whereas in adults it is at level of vocal cords
Trachea Deviated posteriorly & downwards
Head Large head, short neck & prominent occiput
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8. Thank you !!! 8