Comparison of standard versus a new technique for classic laryngeal mask insertion

Abstract

Background & Objective: With the extensive use of the laryngeal mask airway (LMA) for anesthesia as well as in emergency airway management, learning alternative techniques of insertion is essential for the safe and quick use of the device in some cases. The smooth and quick insertion of LMA leads without repeated attempts reduce the consequent complications. We compared standard technique with 180° rotation with inflated cuff technique for LMA Classic insertion.

Methodology: This study was done in Basrah University Medical Center from 1st January 2019 to 31st December 2019. During this period, in 397 patients LMA was used for general anesthesia. Out of these, in 197 patients we used 180° rotation technique of insertion of LMA with fully inflated cuff and in 200 patients the standard method was used as a control group. The patients’ ages ranged between 15 and 45 y, and they were scheduled to undergo short surgical procedures and to require general anesthesia.

Results: Three hundred and ninety-seven (397) participants were enrolled in this study with a mean age of 35.7 ± 14 y. Of those, 154 (38.8%) were males. The new method showed higher sensitivity and accuracy rate (97.4%, 95.9%, respectively) compared to the standard method.

Conclusion: The new method is a suitable technique that enhanced the ease of LMA insertion and successfully placed the device within a shorter time without complications compared to the standard method of insertion.

Key words: Laryngeal mask airway; LMA; BMI; Mallampati grading system; Airway management; Anesthesia, general.

Citation: Salman JM. Comparison of standard versus a new technique for classic laryngeal mask insertion. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2021;25(5):569-574: DOI: 10.35975/apic.v25i5.1621 Received: May 21, 2021, Reviewed: August 25, 2021, Accepted: September 5, 2021