Russell–Silver syndrome (RSS) is an uncommon but well-known imprinting condition primarily characterized by postnatal development failure and idiopathic intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) and an inverted triangular face and a prominent forehead with relative macrocephaly that distinguish it from idiopathic IUGR and other causes of postnatal growth failure. Few case reports of RSS with cleft palate have been published and those who have perioperative issue such difficult intubation owing to trismus and difficulty to use a mouthpiece due to mandibular development failure.

Case presentation

Female child with RSS was subjected to cataract surgery performed under general anesthesia. Despite limited mouth opening and short thyro-mental distance, the intubation was relatively easy. The patient was extubated and moved to the postoperative care area. Postoperative interval passed uneventful …