A Comparison of the I-gel and the Self-pressurised Air-Q Intubating Laryngeal Airway in Children

Supraglottic airway devices (SADs) are well established in pediatric anesthetic practice. The pediatric i-gel and the self-pressurised air-Q (air-Q) are new supraglottic airway devices for children. The i-gel is made of a soft, gel-like elastomer with a noninflatable cuff. The air-Q is a new single-use device that may optimise the airway seal while reducing the potential for postoperative complications such as sore throat. The overall structure of the air-Q SP is identical to the original air-Q, except with regard to the inflatable cuff. The aim of this randomized trial was to compare the clinical performance of the i-gel and the air-Q SP.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Children (1-108 month of age and 7-30kg) scheduled for elective surgery of short duration (less than 2 hr) undergoing general anesthesia using supraglottic airway

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with a potentially difficult airway, risk of aspiration such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or active upper respiratory tract infection