The Flexible Laryngeal Mask Airway in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Adenotonsillectomy

Adenotonsillectomy is a unique challenging procedure for the anaesthesiologist as the airway is shared between the anaesthesia provider and the surgeon. Endotracheal intubation is the standard means to secure the airway in adenotonsillectomy [1]. In recent years, the flexible laryngeal mask airway (FLMA) has been used with increased frequency as an alternative [2]. This device has a a longer, narrower, wire-reinforced airway tube, which gives the shaft more flexibility and resistance to compression [3-5]. Use of Flexible LMA for adenotonsillectomy is widespread in Canada and Europe. Concern for aspiration of blood and secretions and obstruction of surgical field have limited the widespread use of the FLMA for adenotonsillectomy in our country. Hence the present study was undertaken with an aim to assess the safety profile and efficacy of FLMA for paediatric adenotonsillectomy.