Abstract No.: ABS2070: Comparative evaluation of intubating Laryngeal Mask Airway (Fastrach) and Blockbuster Laryngeal Mask Airway for blind tracheal intubation in general surgical operations

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Supraglottic devices fill a niche between the facemask and tracheal tube. The aim of this study was to compare the insertion characteristics (ease of insertion), insertion time, number of attempts, haemodynamic changes and complications (if any)following blind tracheal intubation. METHODS: The comparative study was conducted by dividing 70 patients of age 18-60 years, ASA grade I and II into two groups of 35 patients each who were scheduled for general surgical operations. Group F underwent blind tracheal intubation usingFastrach LMA whereas Group B underwent blind tracheal intubation using Blockbuster LMA. The two groups were thencompared for the efficacy and overall success rate of blind tracheal intubation in patients undergoing surgeries under general anaesthesia. RESULTS: Both devices were inserted in first attempt only. The first time successful ETT insertion following Blockbuster LMA was in 33/35 patients (94.29%) as compared to 26/35 patients (74.29%) of FT LMA. The mean time taken by Group B was13.57±3.48 seconds as compared to 18.82±5.09 seconds of Group F. The complications (sore throat, dysphagia, dysphonia) were significant for Group F as compared to Group B. The haemodynamic parameters were insignificant for both the groups. CONCLUSION: Although both supraglottic devices are feasible for blind tracheal intubation, Blockbuster LMA is a better option as it provides higher first pass success rate with less complications like sore throat, dysphagia and dysphonia.