A comparative evaluation of different supraglottic ventilatory devices during general anesthesia with controlled ventilation: A pilot study

Introduction
ProSeal Laryngeal mask airway (PLMA), I-gel air way and SLIPA (Streamlined Pharynx Airway liner) are ventilatory devices that are inserted easily and blindly as an alternative method to endotracheal intubations. They allowed safe ventilation with lesser pressor response.
Aim of the study
This study aimed to compare PLMA, I-gel air way and SLIPA during general anesthesia in insertion parameters, cardiovascular response, ventilation parameters and postremoval complications.
Material and methods
Sixty adult patients with mallampati score I and II scheduled for elective inguinal hernia repair under general anesthesia with controlled ventilation. Patients were randomly allocated to three equal groups in controlled pilot study, PLMA was used in the first, I-gel was used in the second and SLIPA was used in the third group. The three devices were compared as regards insertion parameters, cardiovascular responses, adequacy of ventilation (oxygen saturation, end tidal carbon dioxide, air leak), fibreoptic vision and postremoval complications.
Results
Manual manipulations were less in I-gel group (10%) in comparison with PLMA (20%) and SLIPA (30%) groups. However, air leak fraction was more evident in PLMA group. Postoperative sore throat occurred more frequently with SLIPA and PLMA and blood stained was significant in the SLIPA group.
Conclusions
We concluded that the I-gel, PLMA and SLIPA are effective ventilatory devices during controlled ventilation, without major complications. I-gel offers advantage over PLMA and SLIPA in being less manipulation needed during placement, less air leak, less postoperative sore throat and less in blood stained to the device after its removal in comparison with PLMA and SLIPA.