Laryngeal Mask Airway Protector™ in obese patients for laparoscopic cholecystectomies: A case series

The development of second-generation supraglottic airway devices in clinical practice has led to a progressively growing trend wherein supraglottic airway devices are favoured instead of tracheal intubation for airway management in laparoscopic surgeries. The clinical advantages of two large-volume gastric drainage channels to prevent aspiration and an integrated cuff pressure indicator called the Cuff pilot™ for application of higher respiratory pressure have resulted in the Laryngeal Mask Airway Protector™ rising in popularity. There are limited studies for the use of this device in obese patients. We describe our initial experiences with the use of the Laryngeal Mask Airway Protector in ten obese patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomies at a tertiary care centre in India. In all patients, we found the Laryngeal Mask Airway Protector to have good first-attempt successful device placement, higher oropharyngeal leak or sealing pressures, adequate ventilation, excellent fibreoptic glottic views, and improved gastric drainage. This case series demonstrates that the Laryngeal Mask Airway Protector may be a safe and acceptable alternative for moderately obese patients when used by a clinically experienced anaesthetist.