The Use of Laryngeal Mask Airway during Anaesthesia for Surgery in the Prone Position in Spontaneously Breathing Patients

Abstract

Background: The prone position is required for many surgical procedures and maintaining and securing the airway in that position is a major concern for the anesthesiologists. The present study was conducted to evaluate the use of the Laryngeal mask airway (LMA) during anaesthesia in prone position in spontaneously breathing patients.Methods: We describe a prospective study of 40 patients, who ranked in ASA physical status class one and two and required general anaesthesia for surgery in prone position and LMA was used to maintain the airway. Different induction techniques were used and different methods of LMA insertion was used.Results: In 37 patients the LMA was inserted successfully from the first attempt, while in the other three patients there were malpositioned and reposition done successfully. Additional propofol was given to two patients who required deepening of anaesthesia after the LMA could be inserted. No laryngospasm or bleeding from the mouth was recorded. Only one patient vomited once 5 minutes after Extubation, after the protective reflexes had returned well. Conclusions: With experience, appropriate patient selection and good preparations, it is possible to induce and maintain anaesthesia using LMA in spontaneously breathing patients in the prone position.