Comparison of laryngeal mask airway insertion methods, including the external larynx lift with pre-inflated cuff, on postoperative pharyngolaryngeal complications: A randomised clinical trial.

Background: Postoperative pharyngolaryngeal complications are commonly reported following laryngeal mask airway (LMA) insertion. After induction of anaesthesia, the airway structures fall backwards under the influence of gravity, and this may contribute to difficulty in placement of a LMA. External airway alignment by lifting the larynx during insertion of an airway may avoid collision of the airway with laryngeal structures.