Comparison between i-gel airway an the proseal laryngeal mask airway in pediatric patients undergoing general anesthesia

Background The I-gel airway is a new supraglottic airway device without an inflatable cuff. In this study we compare the efficacy of the I-gel airway with the Proseal laryngeal mask airway (p-LMA) in children undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia without use of muscle relaxants. Methods Eighty children, one to twelve years of age posted for elective surgery under general anesthesia were selected and randomly divided into two groups: the p-LMA group (group A, n=40) and the I-gel airway group (group B, n=40). Ease of insertion, number of insertion attempts, time for insertion, oropharyngeal seal pressure, hemodynamic changes, and adverse effects were compared between the two groups. Results The Oropharyngeal seal pressure in group B was significantly higher than group A (mean±SD: 26.23±2.3 vs. 21.3±1.75 cm of H20; p<0.01). There were no significant differences with regard to ease of insertion, time for insertion, hemodynamic changes, or adverse effects. Conclusion The Proseal LMA and I-gel airway are easy to insert,with similar insertion times,ease of gastric tube insertion and positional stability. The I-gel airway provides a better oropharyngeal sealing pressure compared to LMA Proseal.