A BSTRACT Background and Aims: This study compares the performance of newer supraglottic airways (SGAs), specifically Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA) Protector and laryngeal mask airway (LMA) Supreme, in various metrics like insertion time, success rates, leak pressure, and postoperative complications. It aims to determine if the LMA Protector offers improved outcomes, crucial for optimizing anesthesia practices in laparoscopic surgeries. Material and Methods: This prospective observational study, conducted at a tertiary care center, compared LMA Protector and LMA Supreme in gynecological laparoscopic surgeries. Patients were divided into groups and fitted with either device during anesthesia induction. Parameters including insertion time, attempts, leak pressure, gastric tube insertion ease, and postoperative complications were recorded and analyzed. The study aimed to assess insertion ease, oropharyngeal sealing, and patient comfort, offering insights for anesthesia management in laparoscopic procedures. Results: In a study of 100 patients undergoing laparoscopic procedures, demographic characteristics were similar between LMA Protector and LMA Supreme groups. LMA Protector had longer insertion times compared to LMA Supreme. LMA Supreme showed higher first-attempt success rates and higher oropharyngeal leak pressure, but with a higher incidence of blood stains on LMA Protector. Gastric tube insertion ease and postoperative sore throat occurrence did not significantly differ between the groups. Conclusion: In conclusion, our study identifies limitations and challenges with the LMA-Protector in comparison to the LMA Supreme but also suggests avenues for improvement and exploration to enhance its effectiveness. Despite these challenges, both devices remain comparable for laparoscopic surgeries, offering improved ventilation and reduced risk of aspiration.
Ansari et al. (Mon,) studied this question.