A Comparison of Propofol and Sevoflurane for Smooth Laryngeal Mask Airway Insertion

Abstract

Objective: To compare the study the easiness of LMA insertion and its associated complications
with sevoflurane and propofol.
Methods: 200 patients, aged 12-50 years, having ASA physical status I and II, undergoing
elective surgical procedures in general anesthesia were allocated randomly in two equal groups.
Group A received Propofol 2.5 mg/kg intravenously along with 100% oxygen through face mask
while patients in Group B received 8% Sevoflurane in 50% N2O and O2 at flow rate of 8
litres/minute for 30 seconds. Losing eyelash reflex was taken as an end point of induction in two
groups under study. Insertion of Laryngeal Mask Airway was attempted by an experienced
anaesthesiologist who was blinded to technique of induction. Full mouth opening, LMA insertion
at first attempt and complications including coughing, gagging, patient movements and
laryngospasm, were recorded. Smooth LMA insertion was labeled if criteria fulfilled.
Results: Smooth LMA insertion was observed in 89 patients in Group A and in 83 patients of
Group B. It appears that greater number of patients had smooth LMA insertion in Group A . There
was no statistically significant difference between to groups (p-value=0.221). Complications
associated with laryngeal mask insertion in both groups were not statistically significant as well.
Conclusions: Sevoflurane and propofol are equally good and safe for successful insertion of
LMA and there is no significant difference in case of insertion and associated effects between the
two study groups.