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The Proseal LMA is a useful rescue device during failed rapid sequence intubation: two additional cases
Tim M Cook1, Tony S Brooks, Joreline Van der Westhuizen
1Department of Anaesthesia, Royal United Hospital, Combe Park, Bath, United Kingdom. timcook@ukgateway.net
Summary
The ProSeal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) effectively rescued airways in two emergency surgery cases after failed tracheal intubation. This device offers a valuable alternative for securing the airway when intubation attempts are unsuccessful.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Airway Management
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Securing a patient's airway during rapid sequence induction is critical, especially in emergency situations.
- Failed tracheal intubation presents a significant challenge, necessitating alternative airway management strategies.
- The ProSeal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) is a supraglottic airway device that can be considered for rescue airway management.
Observation:
- Two cases are presented where the PLMA was utilized following failed tracheal intubation attempts.
- Case 1: A pregnant patient undergoing emergency Cesarean section with difficult airway characteristics (Grade 3 larynx, edema).
- Case 2: A male patient undergoing appendectomy with initial failed intubation attempts.
Findings:
- In both cases, the ProSeal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) was successfully inserted, providing adequate airway control.
- Surgery proceeded uneventfully in both patients after PLMA insertion.
- The PLMA served as an effective rescue device, averting potential complications from failed intubation.
Implications:
- The ProSeal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) demonstrates potential as a valuable rescue device for managing failed emergency intubations.
- Its use may be particularly advantageous in patients with potentially full stomachs, where rapid sequence induction is employed.
- These cases highlight the importance of having alternative airway devices readily available for difficult airway scenarios.