title: The Laryngeal Mask--an overview.
abstract: New equipment, like a new drug, encourages a high level of reporting of adverse events, which can lead to the very rapid identification of even relatively rare complications. When considering the merit of one drug versus another, unless either have major defects, then the result will depend upon the overall picture, i.e. the sum of the morbidities associated with one versus the sum associated with another. Other factors such as availability, purity, and cost will also be taken into consideration. The LM is very recent in the time scale of the history of 'anaesthesia', but it would appear to have survived the 'major defect' stage, and to have entered the trial by morbidity stage. A definite answer on the question of regurgitation and aspiration is not yet available. Present evidence indicates, however, that where there is no contra-indication to it and provided that meticulous attention is paid to mode of use, the LM can be helpful in a wide variety of situations. It is an extremely innovative, and occasionally life-saving piece of equipment, and the relatively small effort necessary to acquire skill in its use worth making. A future review will be able to incorporate the results of on-going and planned studies, and may more accurately define its place in anaesthesia and resuscitation.
authors.affiliation: Royal East Sussex Hospital, Hastings, UK.
authors.forename: A B
authors.initials: AB
authors.lastname: Leach
authors.forename: C A
authors.initials: CA
authors.lastname: Alexander
mesh_terms: D000776:Anesthesiology / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D007440:Intubation; D007830:Larynx; D008397:Masks