Laryngeal mask airway insertion by classic and thumb insertion technique: a comparison

We evaluated the efficacy of an alternative technique, for insertion of the silicone laryngeal mask airway (LMA) Classic™ in 40 American Society of Anesthesiologists grade ASA I and II patients scheduled for elective surgery. In group I (Index Finger group), the LMA was inserted by the classic index finger technique and, in group T (Thumb Insertion group), the thumb insertion technique was used. Ease of insertion, fiberoptic laryngoscopic position, cuff pressures and laryngopharyngeal morbidity were assessed in both study groups. On statistical analysis, both groups were comparable in all respects. From our study it can be concluded that thumb insertion is an effective insertion technique for the LMA Classic™.