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A laryngeal mask airway, often called an LMA, is a supraglottic airway device used to help keep the airway open. It is inserted through the mouth and positioned above the vocal cords rather than inside the trachea. Clinicians may use it during anesthesia or as a rescue airway in selected emergencies. It supports ventilation but does not protect against aspiration as fully as a cuffed endotracheal tube.
read more about laryngeal mask airway ...A laryngeal mask airway can help deliver oxygen and anesthetic gases when a patient needs airway support. It is often used during certain surgeries or procedures that do not require endotracheal intubation. It can also be used as a temporary rescue device when bag-mask ventilation or intubation is difficult. The choice depends on the patient’s condition, fasting status, airway risk, and the clinician’s judgment.
A typical LMA has a tube connected to a mask-shaped cuff that sits over the laryngeal inlet. Some models have inflatable cuffs, while others use a gel-like noninflatable design. Certain designs include channels for drainage, higher seal pressure, or guided intubation. Devices may be single-use or reusable depending on the model and clinical setting.
An LMA is placed by a trained clinician, usually when the patient is deeply sedated, anesthetized, or unconscious. The device is guided through the mouth until the cuff sits above the vocal cords. The cuff, if present, is inflated to create a seal so air can move into the lungs. After placement, clinicians confirm ventilation by checking chest movement, oxygen levels, breath sounds, and carbon dioxide monitoring.
An LMA is useful for airway support, but it is not the right choice for every patient. It does not isolate the trachea as completely as an endotracheal tube, so aspiration risk is an important concern. Possible problems include sore throat, gagging, airway leak, poor seal, laryngospasm, or incorrect positioning. Emergency airway decisions should be made by trained clinicians using the appropriate equipment.
No. An LMA sits above the vocal cords, while an endotracheal tube passes through the vocal cords into the trachea. Both can support breathing, but they are used in different situations.
An LMA is usually placed when a patient is deeply sedated, anesthetized, or unconscious. Placement in an awake patient can trigger gagging or airway reflexes.
It can help ventilate the lungs, but it does not protect against aspiration as completely as a cuffed endotracheal tube. Aspiration risk is one reason clinicians choose airway devices carefully.
An LMA should be placed by clinicians trained in airway management, such as anesthesia, emergency, or resuscitation personnel. Proper placement and monitoring are needed for safe use.
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