THE LARYNGEAL MASK AIRWAY FOR AWAKE DIAGNOSTIC BRONCHOSCOPY - A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF 200 CONSECUTIVE PATIENTS

The laryngeal mask airway (LMA) provides a view of the larynx and movi ng vocal cords without loss of airway control and can be used in flexi ble fibreoptic bronchoscopy for both anaesthetized and awake patients. In this retrospective review of 200 consecutive patients over a 30 mo nth period, bronchoscopy was successful via the LMA in all but one pat ient using a technique of topical anaesthesia and sedation. The LMA di rects the fibrescope to the glottis, allows respiratory function to be monitored and oxygen to be given. Complication rates were similar to those reported for transnasal awake bronchoscopy. Insertion of the LMA in the awake fasted patient is safe and easily achieved.