A Comparison of The Laryngeal Mask Supreme™ and the I-gel™ in a Simulated Difficult Airway Scenario in Anesthetized and Ventilated Patients

The LMA Supreme™ and the I-gel™ are both new developed supraglottic airway devices to provide patent airways during general anesthesia. So far, prospective randomized controlled trials comparing their performance are not yet published. Both devices can be used in difficult airway situations, pre-hospital and in the hospital. In this prospective, randomized, controlled cross-over trial, we are going to evaluate the performance of both devices in a simulated difficult airway scenario using an extrication collar to limit both mouth opening and neck movement. In a maximum total of 60 patients undergoing elective surgery, we will place both airway devices consecutively and ventilate the patients. First attempt success rate and time to success will be recorded. Secondary outcomes include oropharyngeal pressure leak, ease of gastric catheter insertion, adverse events and side effects. Our hypothesis is that no difference exists between the two devices. Our 0-hypothesis is that there is a difference