[Laryngeal mask: a new tool for the anesthetist]

The laryngeal mask airway avoids the need for laryngoscopy and for tracheal intubation which may be harmful to certain patients. It was used in 70 patients by anesthetists with no previous experience of its use. A clear and unobstructed airway was obtained in 97.2% of patients. An evident hemodynamic stability was observed following its insertion and few minutes later. Laryngospasm occurred in 8 cases during the course of anesthesia and it appeared to be a result of light anaesthesia or of a secondary displacement.