[Laryngeal tube suction]

Abstract

Background: The difficult airway remains a challenge especially in emergencies.

Materials and methods: The use of laryngeal tube suction in 8 cases involving difficult airways in emergencies was reviewed.

Results: Use of the laryngeal tube was successful in all cases to bridge patients until a secure airway was established; insertions were successful at the first attempt and classified as easy. In 6 out of 8 patients a secure airway was established by cricothyreotomy or by surgical tracheotomy while using the laryngeal tube for oxygenation and ventilation of the patient.

Conclusion: The laryngeal tube allows rapid oxygenation in emergency patients with a difficult airway until a secure airway can be established. In cases of potentially life saving operations successful ventilation via the laryngeal tube might allow the priority of establishing a secure airway to be deferred.