The Fastrach Intubating Laryngeal Mask Airway: an overview and update

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Airway Management
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• The Fastrach Intubating Laryngeal Mask Airway (FT-LMA) is a specialized device designed for airway management.
• Its utility in various clinical settings, including operative and non-operative scenarios, warrants an updated evidence-based overview.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of the Fastrach Intubating Laryngeal Mask Airway (FT-LMA).
• To update current knowledge on the application of the FT-LMA in both operative and non-operative settings.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on the FT-LMA.
• Analysis of its performance in ventilation and endotracheal intubation (ETI).
• Comparison with other airway devices and assessment in difficult airway scenarios.

Main Results:

• The FT-LMA, available in three sizes, facilitates ventilation and endotracheal tube (ETT) passage in patients over 30 kg.
• The Chandy maneuver enhances ventilation and intubation success rates.
• Blind ETI is highly successful with the FT-LMA, with excellent airway seal pressures and uncommon serious complications.
• It demonstrates favorable comparisons with other devices like the LMA-Classic and laryngeal tube.

Conclusions:

• The FT-LMA is a valuable tool for managing difficult airways in diverse settings.
• Effective ventilation and blind ETI are achievable in most cases when optimal techniques are employed.
• Serious complications associated with FT-LMA use are infrequent.