Impact of visually guided versus blind techniques of insertion on the incidence of malposition of Ambu(®) AuraGain™ in paediatric patients undergoing day care surgeries: A prospective, randomised trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: In adults, video laryngoscopy is recommended for supraglottic airway device (SGAD) placement as it results in better device position and higher oropharyngeal leak pressures. In children, there is a paucity of studies evaluating the impact of visually guided techniques on SGAD placement. Aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of visual-guided techniques of SGAD placement in children. METHODS: Totally, 75 children, scheduled for elective surgery, were randomly allocated into three groups, that is, standard (S), direct laryngoscopy (DL), and video laryngoscopy (VL). Ambu AuraGain was placed blindly in group S, and under visual guidance with video laryngoscopy and direct laryngoscopy in groups VL and DL, respectively. Ambu AuraGain position was determined by flexible videoendoscope. First attempt success rate, time for successful insertion, oropharyngeal leak and any complications were studied. RESULTS: Incidence of malposition was not significantly different in group S (44%), DL (48%), and VL (64%); P = 0.32. The first attempt success rate was 100% in DL and 92% each in S and VL. Time to insert (seconds) was significantly higher in VL (37.9 ± 21.6), compared to S (18.4 ± 7.9) and DL (27.4 ± 14.5); P <0.001. Incidence of oropharyngeal leak, impact on ventilation, and complications were similar in all three groups. CONCLUSION: In this study, there was no advantage of visually guided techniques for Ambu AuraGain placement in children.