Abstract

Background and Aim: Endotracheal intubation is considered the premier airway device during adenotonsillectomies. Now-a-days flexible laryngeal mask airway is being used with an increased frequency during adenotonsillectomies. Aim of our study was to assess the feasibility of flexible laryngeal mask airway as a safer alternative to endotracheal tube in paediatric adenotonsillectomy.

Methods: Sixty children of 3-8 years of age group of either sex, weighing 10-20kg and belonging to physical status of ASA PS Grades 1 and 2 posted for elective adenotonsillectomy were studied. All patients were randomized into two groups. In group E appropriate sized endotracheal tube was used as the airway device. In group F-Flexible laryngeal mask airway (FLMA) size 2 was used. Haemodynamic responses during and following insertion of the devices were recorded. Incidence of cough, bronchospasm and laryngospasm were studied. The independent student’s t test and Chi-square test were used for the data analysis and a p value less than 0.05 was taken as significant.

Results: Our study revealed that the insertion as well as removal of FLMA was associated with fewer haemodynamic changes when compared with endotracheal tube. The Flexible LMA provided adequate surgical access, maintained adequate intraoperative oxygenation and ventilation and had lesser extubation time. The incidence of cough and laryngospasm was lower in patients where FLMA was used.

Conclusion: The Flexible LMA proves to be a suitable and safe alternative to endotracheal tube for airway management in elective, fasted, paediatric patients undergoing adenotonsillectomy.

Keywords

Adenoidectomy, Tonsillectomy, Flexible, Laryngeal mask airway