Use of Laryngeal Mask Airway in the Management of a Difficult Airway: A Case Report

Background: Difficulty in management of the airway occurs most frequently in patients who have Mallampati grade III and IV, and other unfavourable airway findings like short neck, restriction in range of motion of the temporomandibular joints and inadequate neck flexion and extension. Because of unavailability of fibreoptic bronchoscopes or inexperience in their use, laryngeal mask airway (LMA) has become a common and acceptable airway management option. This is a case report of a postmenopausal woman who had her airway managed with LMA following initial failed intubation necessitating a rescheduling of the operation. Result: The patient had a successful surgery and postoperative recovery was uneventful. Conclusion: The LMA is a useful option in the management of an anticipated or unexpected difficult airway, especially in resource-poor settings where fibreoptic bronchoscopes may not be readily available.