Comparison of the Effects of Room Air and N2o + O2 Used for Proseal Lma Cuff Inflation on Cuff Pressure and Oropharyngeal Structure

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different inflating gases used for ProSeal LMA (PLMA) cuff inflation on cuff pressure, oropharyngeal structure, and the incidence of sore throat. Eighty patients (American Society of Anesthesiologists; ASA I-II) were randomly divided into two groups. PLMA cuff inflation was achieved with appropriate volumes of 50% N(2)O + 50% O(2) in group I and room air in group II, respectively. When the PLMA was removed, oropharyngeal examination was carried out immediately, using a rigid optical telescope. Patients were asked about sore throat symptoms postoperatively. Cuff pressures were significantly lower in group I, except at the initial pressure measurement. Cuff pressure was positively correlated with the length of the operation in group II, and negatively correlated in group I. PLMA cuff inflation with room air led to increased cuff pressure during the operation, possibly due to the diffusion of N(2)O into the cuff. We consider that a PLMA cuff inflated with an N(2)O-O(2) mixture is convenient, especially in operations in which N(2)O has been used.