A Comparison of Three Different Supraglottic Airway Devices in Neonatal Airway Training during Resuscitation Simulation

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the success rates for insertion using the laryngeal mask, laryngeal tube, and I-gel supraglottic airway devices in a neonatal airway manikin during a resuscitation simulation course. Methods: Three groups of health care professionals were given a brief supervised training in using the devices. For each participant the positioning of each device was recorded. Success rate of insertion and time until adequate ventilation was measured. Furthermore, use and handling of a SAD was scored for ease of insertion, clinical and fiber-optic position, and ventilation. Results: A total of 66 health care providers (22 nurse anesthetists, 22 paramedics, and 22 anesthesia residents) participated in the study. The median time to establish ventilation of both the laryngeal mask and the laryngeal tube was significantly longer than for the I-gel for all professional groups (p < 0.001). Success rate was 100% for the used supraglottic airway devices on first attempt. The fiberoptic evaluation score of the laryngeal tube was (not significantly) lower than the scores of the I-gel and laryngeal mask. Conclusion: This manikin study demonstrated equal success rates, but shorter time to establish adequate ventilation with the I-gel supraglottic airway device than the laryngeal mask or laryngeal tube devices in a neonatal airway management simulation by differently trained health care professionals. While simulations are appropriate for practicing the use and the training of a supraglottic airway device, the results of the present study must not be applied to corresponding situations in real humans without further investigation.