The patient with Down syndrome: what changes before you pick up a handpiece

In short

Most patients with Down syndrome can be treated well in a general practice; the cases that go badly are decided in the history, not the operatory. Before the appointment, settle four things: the cardiac history in detail, any cervical spine symptoms or screening, the airway and sleep history, and who legally consents. Any two of an unclear cardiac history, a suspicious cervical history, and significant airway concern make it a hospital case that might not need the hospital, rather than a chair case that might need help.