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[The use of the laryngeal mask--a practical method?]
1Klinik für Anaesthesiologie der Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz.
Der Anaesthesist
|April 1, 1991
Summary
The laryngeal mask provides a safe and effective method for ventilation during anesthesia, avoiding endotracheal intubation. This study confirmed its advantages for short procedures, with minimal complications observed.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Airway Management
Context:
- The laryngeal mask, developed by Brain et al. in 1985, offers an alternative to endotracheal intubation for patient ventilation during anesthesia.
- Recent successful uses reported, particularly in Great Britain, prompted further investigation into this novel airway device.
Purpose:
- To investigate the safety and efficacy of the laryngeal mask as an anesthetic device.
- To evaluate its ease of insertion, ventilation parameters, and potential complications in patients undergoing elective surgery.
Summary:
- The laryngeal mask was successfully inserted in 15 patients (ASA I-II) without issues, allowing immediate manual ventilation with pressures below 15 cm H2O.
- No airway control or technical complications were observed; cardiovascular and oxygen saturation levels remained normal.
- Minor postoperative sore throat was reported in two patients, and head movements did not dislodge the mask.
Impact:
- The study confirms the laryngeal mask's advantages, recommending its use for short surgical or diagnostic procedures and in cases where endotracheal intubation complications are a concern.
- A critical limitation is the lack of complete tracheal isolation, posing a risk of gastric insufflation or aspiration in certain situations.