Brain laryngeal mask (BLM) was used to assess its suitability in 50 spontaneously breathing patients by one lecturer and 4 Medical Officers. Insertion of the laryngeal mask was successful at the first attempt in 42 patients, second attempt in 7 and third attempt in one. The incidence of airway obstruction secondary to downfolding of the epiglottis, which was corrected by reinsertion, was 16%. Post-operative complications included clenching of teeth in 5 patients, vomiting in 2 and excessive salivation in 3. The incidence of sore throat was 10%.
The Proseal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) is a relatively new supraglottic airway device with a drain tube to minimize the risk of gastric insufflation and aspiration. We compared introducer tool (IT) and gum elastic bougie (GEB)-guided techniques for insertion of the Proseal LMA in children.
One lung anaesthesia in paediatric patients may not always be achievable by bronchial blockade or double lumen tube intubation due to inadequate experiences or facilities. We attempted to isolate right lung by selectively intubating the left bronchus with single lumen tube on a 10 kg child. Optimal surgical condition and satisfactory oxygenation achieved but complicated with severe respiratory acidosis. The possible causes for hypercapnea in this child were discussed.