Comparison of the streamlined liner of the pharynx airway (SLIPA TM ) with the I-gel TM in paralyzed, anesthetized patients

Abstract

BACKGROUND: I‐gelâ„¢ and Streamlined Liner of the Pharynx Airway (SLIPAâ„¢) are the second generation supraglottic airway devices characterized by disposability and non‐inflatable cuff that provide adequate sealing pressure and easy use. This study was designed to compare oro‐pharyngeal leakage pressure of the I‐gelâ„¢ with the SLIPAâ„¢. METHODS: Seventy‐eight adult patients were randomly assigned to undergo general anesthesia with either I‐gelâ„¢ or SLIPAâ„¢. Hemodynamic changes and Oro‐pharyngeal leakage pressure were assessed at one minute after the insertion. The total insertion time, number of attempts, ease of insertion, and presence of blood staining and regurgitation were recorded. After surgery, postoperative sore throat and other complications (dysphonia, dysphagia or paresthesia of tongue) were evaluated. RESULTS: Oro‐pharyngeal leakage pressure after device insertion was higher in the SLIPAâ„¢ group than the I‐gelâ„¢ group. Insertion time was significantly shorter in the I‐gelâ„¢ group than the SLIPAâ„¢ group. Blood staining was presented in 21.1% of the SLIPAâ„¢ group vs. 2.6% of the I‐gelâ„¢ group. In the recovery room, postoperative sore throat measured in visual rating scale (VAS) was significantly higher in the SLIPAâ„¢ group than in the I‐gelâ„¢ group. Ease of insertion, regurgitation, respiratory index and hemodynamic change after insertion showed no significant differences. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, the SLIPAâ„¢ devices provided higher oro‐pharyngeal leakage pressure than I‐gelâ„¢. However, the results verified ease of insertion, and safety of ventilation and hemodynamic changes, without any severe complications in both I‐gelâ„¢ and SLIPAâ„¢.