[Laryngeal tube suction].

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.