Laryngeal mask airway supreme versus endotracheal tube for elective breast surgeries under general anaesthesia-a randomised comparative study

Abstract

Introduction: LMA has gained popularity as an alternative technique of airway management as compared to endotracheal tube as it is easier and faster to insert than the ETT and cause minimal trauma to the patient’s airway. Experimental approach: Total 60 patients scheduled for elective breast surgeries under general anaesthesia were randomly allocated into two groups (LMAS or ETT) comprising 30 each. Parameters like number of attempts, time taken for the insertion of device, haemodynamic response and postoperative complications like sore throat, dysphagia, neck pain etc. were compared between both the devices. Major findings: Intubation at one attempt was found to be higher for the LMAS than ETT, mean time required for ETT insertion was 27.20±2.33 sec which was significantly more than LMA insertion. Use of LMAS resulted in more haemodynamic stability, whereas post-operative complications were seen more with ETT than LMAS. Conclusion: LMA supreme can be more safely and effectively used over ETT for breast surgery as it results in better peri-operative outcomes.