Comparison of I-gel and Proseal LMA for airway management in pediatric patients under controlled ventilation - A prospective, randomized, single blind clinical study

Introduction: The Proseal Laryngeal Mask Airway (PLMA) and I-gel are two novel supraglottic devices available for airway management and can be used safely in paediatric patients. The primary aim of our study was to compare the efficacy of PLMA and I-gel in providing adequate airway seal in paediatric patients under controlled ventilation. Materials and Methods: A prospective, randomized, single blind clinical study was carried out during October 2014 to September 2015. A total of 64 ASA PS grade I and II paediatric patients (Aged 3-9 years) undergoing elective general surgery were included. Patients with upper respiratory tract infection and difficult intubation were excluded. The patients were randomly assigned into two groups PLMA Group and I-gel Group using randomizer software. We assessed airway insertion time, ease of insertion and number of attempts for airway control and gastric tube placement, oropharyngeal seal pressure, hemodynamic parameters and complications. Results: The oropharyngeal seal pressure was significantly higher (p=0.0025) in group PLMA (29.1±3.7cm of H2O) than in group I-gel (26.3±3.5 cm of H2O). Hemodynamic parameters, success rate and postoperative complications were comparable among both the groups. Conclusion: Both, PLMA and I-gel can be used safely and effectively for airway management in paediatric patients under controlled ventilation.