Optimal shape of the laryngeal mask cuff: the influence of three deflation techniques

A randomised, single-blinded, controlled trial was conducted to determine if a new laryngeal mask deflation tool offered any advantages over manual or free deflation. Ten laryngeal mask airways were tested and the deflation tool provided a significantly superior and more consistent shape than either hand manipulation or the free deflation, but did not offer any benefits in terms of residual volume. The deflator tool should encourage wider use of the standard recommended insertion technique. It can be used as a backup when manual deflation cannot provide the correct shape and may be useful for researchers studying laryngeal mask airway placement.