A randomised crossover trial comparing the i-gel supraglottic airway and classic laryngeal mask airway.

In a randomised cross-over study, we compared the performance of the single use i-gel supraglottic airway and reusable classic laryngeal mask airway (cLMA) in 50 healthy anaesthetised patients who were breathing spontaneously. Primary outcome was successful insertion at first attempt. Secondary outcomes included overall insertion success rate, ease of insertion, leak pressure and fibreoptic position.

Tracheal intubation, tracheal tubes and laryngeal mask airways.

Tracheal intubation is used when a clear airway is difficult to achieve with a face mask or laryngeal mask, or if there is a risk of dislodgement of other forms of airway control. Tracheal intubation is considered to be an important part of patient management when a major intraoperative complication develops (for example anaphylaxis, massive haemorrhage or malignant hyperpyrexia).