Laryngeal Mask Airways

Updated : December 24, 2025

Laryngeal Mask Airways (LMA) is a medical device which maintains good airway flow and provides positive pressure ventilation.

Dr. Archie Brain, who recognized this device in 1981 as a safer and better option than endotracheal intubation.

The device is designed in form of elliptical mask attached to a tube that seals around the laryngeal inlet. This allows ventilation without tracheal tube insertion.

LMA is useful in various settings including the operation room, ED, and pre-hospital care due to its handling and speed. Success rate for LMA placement is nearly 100% in the operating room but it has lower rate in emergency settings.

The use of airway ventilation device reduces risk of gastric distention and aspiration, which is more crucial in non-fasted patients.

Laryngeal Mask Airways (LMA) is a medical device which maintains good airway flow and provides positive pressure ventilation.

Dr. Archie Brain, who recognized this device in 1981 as a safer and better option than endotracheal intubation.

The device is designed in form of elliptical mask attached to a tube that seals around the laryngeal inlet. This allows ventilation without tracheal tube insertion.

The use of airway ventilation device reduces risk of gastric distention and aspiration, which is more crucial in non-fasted patients.

It is used in anesthesia for spontaneous and controlled ventilation during surgeries.

These are preferred for short surgeries due to quick insertion and removal of airway device.

LMA are used for failed intubation, which provide effective and rapid ventilation. It is a suitable option for intubation in cardiac arrest cases.

LMA can help to manage airways when positioning does not allow endotracheal intubation in patients.

This device is not for patients with upper airway obstruction as they need to ventilate laryngeal inlet.

LMAs are not suitable for patients who do not maintain oxygen or ventilation with proper placement.

They are not recommended for patients with conditions increasing airway trauma risk during insertion and removal.

Absolute contraindications are inability to open mouth and full airway blockage.

Patients with inadequate sedation, agitation, or altered mental status are not suitable for LMA placement.

It is contraindicated in following conditions:

Prolonged bag-valve-mask ventilation
Morbid obesity
Second or third trimester of pregnancy
Upper gastrointestinal bleed

Successful placement of LMA ensures open airway, provides proper breathing and oxygen intake under anesthesia or emergencies.

LMA have lower aspiration risk than endotracheal tubes when properly used, especially in patients with gastric issues.

LMAs may provide more comfort over endotracheal tubes post-anesthesia.

It reduced discomfort and pain during intubation thus all patients are fully satisfied with this device’s results.

Laryngeal Mask Airways
Suction Device
Lubricant
Syringe for Cuff Inflation
End-Tidal CO2 Detector

Patient Positioning:

Patient positioned in supine position with head in neutral alignment for LMA insertion.

Proper support to the head and neck should be given for optimal airway alignment and to avoid any risk during the procedure.

Step 1: Preparation of LMA:

Arrange LMA cuff, balloon, and inflation system at one place. Deflate cuff fully before insertion and prevent any kind of twisting.

Step 2: Insertion of LMA

Use index finger on nondominant hand to guide LMA into mouth then apply lubricant to mask for easier insertion.

Insert LMA along mouth midline, following palate curve. Then proceed steadily until resistance is felt, which indicates correct placement in oropharynx.