Quick Facts

• The Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA) is a supraglottic airway device used to maintain airway patency during anesthesia or unconsciousness.

• It is less invasive than endotracheal intubation and can be inserted blindly without the need for laryngoscopy.

• LMAs are commonly used in elective surgeries and emergency situations where intubation is not feasible.

Procedure

Preparation

• Ensure the patient is in the “sniffing” position unless contraindicated due to cervical spine injury.
• Choose the appropriate LMA size based on the patient’s weight.
• Check the LMA cuff for leaks by inflating and then deflating it completely.
• Lubricate the posterior surface of the LMA cuff to facilitate smooth insertion.

Insertion

1. Hold the LMA like a pen, with the index finger at the junction of the tube and cuff.
2. Open the patient’s mouth and insert the LMA along the hard palate, advancing it until resistance is felt.
3. Inflate the cuff with the recommended volume of air to create an effective seal.
4. Connect the LMA to the ventilation device and assess for adequate ventilation.

Confirmation Steps

• Observe for chest rise and fall with each ventilation.
• Listen for bilateral breath sounds and absence of gastric insufflation.
• Monitor end-tidal CO₂ levels to confirm effective ventilation.

Documentation Requirements

• Record the size and type of LMA used.
• Note the number of insertion attempts and any complications encountered.
• Document the patient’s response and ventilation parameters.

Scope Guide

References

1. Merck Manual Professional Version. How To Insert a Laryngeal Mask Airway. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/critical-care-medicine/how-to-do-other-airway-procedures/how-to-insert-a-laryngeal-mask-airway
2. Wikipedia. Laryngeal mask airway. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laryngeal_mask_airway