Comparison of the LMA-ProSeal™ and LMA-classic™ in children

Abstract

Background. The LMA-ProSeal™ is a new laryngeal mask airway with a rear cuff and drainage tube that allows a higher seal pressure than the LMA-Classic™ for the same intra-cuff pressure, and it permits drainage of gastric secretions and access to the alimentary tract. The LMA-ProSeal can be used in children but it does not have a rear cuff. This study compared the LMA-ProSeal and the LMA-Classic in children for ease of insertion, airway sealing pressure and fibre-optic visualization. Methods. Sixty ASA I-II children undergoing herniorrhaphy, orchiopexy or myringotomy were included. The patients were randomly assigned to size 2 LMA-Classic™ or size 2 LMA-ProSeal groups for airway management. We assessed success rates at first attempt of insertion, airway sealing pressure, fibre-optic position, success rates of gastric tube placement and postoperative blood staining of the device, tongue-lip-dental trauma and hoarseness. Results. There was no statistical difference between the two groups for the success rates at first attempt of insertion, airway sealing pressure and fibre-optic position. Gastric tube insertion was successful in 90% of cases in the LMA-ProSeal group. The LMA-Classic had a higher rate of postoperative blood staining, but there was no tongue-lip-dental trauma or hoarseness in either group. Conclusion. We conclude that ease of insertion and airway sealing pressure are similar between the LMA-ProSeal and the LMA-Classic in children. © The Board of Management and Trustees of the British Journal of Anaesthesia 2004.