New-Generation GMA Laryngeal Mask Airway Versus Conventional Inflatable Laryngeal Mask Airway

A Multicenter, Randomized Controlled Study Comparing the Effectiveness of the New Generation GMA Laryngeal Mask and Conventional Laryngeal Mask in Airway Management During General Anesthesia

This study aims to compare the new-generation GMA laryngeal mask airway (LMA) with the traditional inflatable LMA in patients undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia. The primary objectives are to evaluate the safety, effectiveness, stability, ease of use, and patient comfort of the GMA LMA, providing practical guidance for clinical airway management. Additionally, this research will analyze the anatomical positioning and sealing mechanism of the LMA to identify factors influencing proper alignment and airway sealing. The findings may contribute to future improvements in LMA design, enhancing patient safety and procedural success.

This study is designed for healthcare providers, anesthesiologists, and researchers seeking evidence-based recommendations for LMA selection in clinical practice. Participation involves standard anesthesia procedures with close monitoring to ensure patient safety.

Eligible patients meeting the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study and randomly assigned into two groups using a random number table: the traditional Inflatable Laryngeal Mask Airway Group (Group L) and the GMA Group (Group G). One day before surgery, the research team conducted preliminary screening of patients scheduled for elective surgery, followed by a preoperative visit to explain the study's purpose, anesthesia considerations, and obtain informed consent. Upon entering the operating room, standard monitoring (ECG, blood pressure, pulse oximetry, etc.) was applied. The research team recorded the patient's actual fasting duration, last intake (food/liquid type), and baseline characteristics, including age, sex, height, weight, BMI, comorbidities, ASA classification, surgical type, and preoperative anxiety level. Airway assessment was reconfirmed. Anesthesia induction was performed with intravenous etomidate, vecuronium, and sufentanil. After loss of consciousness and disappearance of the eyelash reflex, manual ventilation was initiated. Following induction, the laryngeal mask was inserted.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Inclusion Criteria

  1. Age 18-75 years;
  2. ASA physical status I-II;
  3. Strict compliance with ASA fasting guidelines;
  4. Normal airway anatomy;
  5. Voluntary participation with signed informed consent.

• Exclusion Criteria:

  1. Pre-existing aspiration risk or gastrointestinal disorders;

  2. Oropharyngeal/laryngeal abnormalities;

  3. Anticipated difficult airway (≥1 of the following):

     BMI >30 kg/m² Mouth opening <3 cm Mallampati class III-IV Restricted neck mobility

  4. Contraindications to LMA use;

  5. Communication or cognitive impairments;

  6. Other exclusions at investigator's discretion