We have compared insertion of a tracheal tube and laryngeal mask airwa
y (LMA) both with and without the presence of a tube in the oesophagus
in 20 ASA I and II patients undergoing elective laparoscopy. After in
duction of anaesthesia and neuromuscular block, we measured the times
for an experienced anaesthetist to correctly position both an LMA and
a tracheal tube with and without a tube in the oesophagus. The time to
intubation was significantly less with the LMA than with the tracheal
tube, both with and without an oesophageal tube in place (P < 0.05).
We conclude that if a tracheal tube is placed unintentionally in the o
esophagus, an LMA may be used subsequently to provide rapid and effect
ive oxygenation of the patient.