Comparison of three insertion techniques of ProSeal laryngeal mask airway: A randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: We aimed to compare three techniques for insertion of ProSeal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two hundred ten patients (American Society of Anaethesiologists I-II, aged 18–60 years) undergoing general anesthesia using the PLMA as an airway management device were randomly allocated to digital (D), rotational (R), or pharyngoscopic (P) techniques. In the D group (n = 70), the PLMA insertion was performed by using digital manipulation. In the R group (n = 70), the PLMA was inserted into the mouth, rotated anticlockwise through 90° and advanced into the hypopharynx. In the P group (n = 70), the PLMA was inserted after gentle pharyngoscopy using laryngoscope. Success rate at the first attempt, insertion time, airway manipulations required, and postoperative complications were noted. RESULTS: Insertion at first attempt was more successful with P technique than the R and D groups (100% vs. 98.5% vs. 81.4% respectively, P < 0.01). Insertion time was shortest for the P group which was statistically significant compared to the group D (P < 0.001), but comparable with the R group. None of the patients required manipulation in the P group compared to the group R (P = 0.04) and D (P < 0.001). Blood staining (group P = 2.8% vs. group R = 2.8% vs. group D = 22%, P < 0.0001) and sore throat (group P = 0% vs. group R = 6.9% vs. group D = 16.7%, both: P < 0.005) were lower with the pharyngoscopic technique. CONCLUSION: We conclude that the pharyngoscopic technique for PLMA insertion is more successful with lower incidence of complications (mucosal bleeding and sore throat).