AANA journal course: update for nurse anesthetists--the laryngeal mask airway: attributes and inadequacies

The laryngeal mask airway (LMA) is a relatively new and innovative means to control the airway during anesthesia or in emergent situations. It is simply a small infatable mask that forms a low pressure seal around the laryngeal inlet that can be used in spontaneous or controlled breathing in adult and pediatric patients. The LMA is less invasive than the endotracheal tube, does not require laryngoscopy or the use of muscle relaxants, and has been used in the management of the difficult airway and with fiberoptic facilitated intubation. It does not protect against aspiration and is contraindicated in patients at risk for this complication.