LMA ProSeal(TM) vs. i-Gel(TM) in ventilated children: a randomised, crossover study using the size 2 mask

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Pediatric Critical Care
• Airway Management

Background:

• The Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA) ProSeal and i-Gel are commonly used extraglottic airway devices.
• The LMA ProSeal features an inflatable cuff, while the i-Gel has a non-inflatable cuff.
• Both devices are utilized for airway management in various clinical settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the oropharyngeal leak pressure between the size 2 LMA ProSeal and i-Gel.
• To evaluate the fiberoptic position of the airway tube for both devices.
• To test the hypothesis of differences in these parameters in non-paralyzed, ventilated children.

Main Methods:

• A crossover study design was employed with 51 children aged 1.5-6 years (10-25 kg).
• Anesthesia was induced and maintained using a remifentanil/propofol mixture.
• The LMA ProSeal and i-Gel were inserted in a random order for each patient.

Main Results:

• Oropharyngeal leak pressure was similar for both devices: 22 (5) cm H2O for LMA ProSeal and 21 (5) cm H2O for i-Gel.
• Fiberoptic visualization of the vocal cords was comparable, with 94% for LMA ProSeal and 96% for i-Gel.
• No significant difference was observed in key airway parameters between the two devices.

Conclusions:

• Oropharyngeal leak pressure and fiberoptic position are similar for size 2 LMA ProSeal and i-Gel in ventilated children.
• These findings indicate comparable performance of these two extraglottic airway devices in the pediatric population.
• The study provides evidence for the interchangeability of these devices in specific pediatric scenarios.