The intubating laryngeal mask airway.

T he laryngeal mask airway (LMA) is accepted as both a rescue ventilation and a primary airway management device in both the prehospital and emergency department environments. A modified version of the LMA, the intubating laryngeal mask airway (ILMA, LMA-Fastrach; Intavent Ltd, Reading, UK) exists, which, when combined with a modified tracheal tube, can be used for blind tracheal intubation. There is evidence that the ILMA is an effective means of maintaining ventilation and oxygenation in the prehospital, operating theatre, and emergency department 7 environments. In addition, it has been reported to be effective in facial trauma, neck immobilisation, 9 in a lateral position, while wearing a chemical protective hood, and while in a helicopter. Importantly, it has been shown to be effective even among inexperienced operators. 8 13 14 A best evidence equipment review was undertaken to assess whether, when compared with a conventional LMA, the ILMA would be of use as an airway rescue device.