Comparison between Laryngeal Mask Airway- Gastro and Low flow nasal Cannula in patients undergoing Upper Gastro-Intestinal Endoscopic procedures under Total Intravenous Anaesthesia: A Randomized Control study

Anaesthesia during gastroenterological procedures is a growing field. While the numbers of patients with severe comorbidities are rising constantly, gastrointestinal endoscopic interventions are moving closer to minimally invasive endoscopic surgery. Various airway techniques have been employed for endoscopic procedures, with an aim to optimise patient outcome by improving airway control and preventing hypoxia whilst avoiding the need for intubation. The LMA gastro is a newer supraglottic airway device, developed specifically for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and intervention.

Patients undergoing upper Gastro intestinal endoscopy typically receive either Total intravenous anaesthesia(TIVA) or general endotracheal anaesthesia (GETA). Patients receiving propofol based TIVA are at higher risk of sedation related complication. The LMA gastro Airway, a novel dual channel supraglottic airway technique, has a dedicated endoscopy channel which runs parallel along the separate airway channel with terminal cuffs. Use of LMA Gastro helps in avoiding sedation related airway complications like apnea, desaturation and also gives the advantage of initiating rescue measures like positive pressure ventilation without interrupting the endoscopic procedure.