LMA CTrach^TM in patients with anticipated difficult airway : A retrospective study

Abstract

LMA CTrachTM , a newer airway conduit, with its ability to ventilate and intubate is the ideal device for airway management for difficult airways. A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of this airway device in patients with anticipated difficult airway. 250 patients in whom LMA CTrach TM was used for endotracheal intubation was analyzed. These patients were analyzed for anticipated difficult airway, success rate of intubation with LMA CTrach TM , difficulties encountered and corrective measures applied. Fifty five patients had predictors of difficult airway and LMA CTrach TM was successful in all but one. Although successful intubation was achieved with LMA CTrach TM , difficulty in intubation was encountered in six patients. This could be overcome with excessive pressure, correctional manoeuvers or a larger size LMA CTrach TM . The most common predictors of difficult airway encountered were Modified Mallampati class 3, restricted extension, restricted mouth opening of two finger breadths and retrognathia. LMA CTrach TM is a useful airway device in a difficult airway scenario with the ability to ventilate and intubate the patient.

Preliminary Experience with LMA CTrach™ for Assessment of Glottic Structures during Thyroidectomy

“…The LMA CTrach (The Laryngeal Mask Company, Le Rocher, Victoria, Mahe, Seychelles) is a modification of the LMA Fastrach, with inbuilt fiberoptic channels and a liquid colour display (LCD) viewer attached to the handle 3 . It facilitates intubation under direct vision and also enables ventilation through the barrel of the LMA CTrach 3,4 .Thus, its role as an intubating aid in difficult airway situations is established 4,5 . To our knowledge, the LMA CTrach has not been used for assessment of the vocal cords during thyroidectomy.…”