title: Correct positioning of the epiglottis for application of the Brain laryngeal mask airway.
abstract: Positioning of the epiglottis when the Brain laryngeal mask airway is in place was studied in 20 adult patients, using a new technique of insertion. The laryngeal mask was inserted when the anterior displacement of the mandible extended the epiglottis, thereby the providing an excellent airway in all patients. In 10 out of these 20 patients, the conventional technique of insertion revealed an incomplete extension of the epiglottis, and inadequate opening of the laryngeal inlet. It was concluded that the anterior displacement of the mandible during insertion of the laryngeal mask enhances the opening of the larynx, the result being an excellent airway.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anaesthesia, Kyushu Koseinenkin Hospital, Kitakyushu, Japan.
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Fukutome
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D004825:Epiglottis / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017214:Laryngeal Masks; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged