i-gel® from Intersurgical: clinical evidence listing

Kohli M, Wadhawan S, Bhadoria P, Ratan SK. J Anaesthesiol Clin Pharmacol. 2019 Jan-Mar;35(1):30-35

This study aimed to determine the efficacy of the i-gel as compared to the ETT in terms of adequacy of ventilation in 80 children (2-8 years of age) undergoing paediatric laparoscopic surgeries. Several parameters were evaluated including peak airway pressure, end-tidal CO2, minute ventilation, SpO2, as well as desufflation of the peritoneal cavity. These variables were recorded after securing the airway, after carboperitoneum (CP) and after desufflation of the peritoneal cavity. Results showed a significant increase in the partial pressure of mean expired CO2 (PeCo2), peak airway pressure, as well as minute ventilation in both groups after creation of CP. On the other hand, no difference was observed in heart rate or mean arterial pressure. Moreover, the i-gel showed a smaller increase in peak airway pressure and fewer post-operative complications. Thus, both devices were comparable in terms of adequacy of ventilation, but the i-gel was able to provide a safe alternative to the ETT.

Link to abstract.

Schälte G, Bomhard LT, Rossaint R, Coburn M, Stoppe C, Zoremba N, Rieg A. BMJ Open. 2016 May 12;6(5):e010770.

100 participants were presented with a manikin and an airway management package containing a labelled i-gel and a mouthpiece with a filter which connected to the i-gel connector. They were given a sheet of instruction and attempted to ventilate the manikin. Time to ventilation, success rate, i-gel position and direction, and participant age and first aid experience were recorded. Participants rated their success and the ease of use, stated whether they would use the device in an emergency, and stated whether they would feel comfortable performing ventilation with the device. The three devices were generally comparable. However, the i-gel was quicker to insert, most likely due to the lack of inflatable cuff. The incidence and severity of both perioperative and postoperative complications was low.

Link to abstract.

Pejovic NJ, Trevisanuto D, Nankunda JJ, Tylleskar T. Acta Paediatr. 2016 Dec;105(12):1440-1443

After brief training, 25 participants attempted insertion, with success rate and insertion time recorded. i-gel achieved 100% insertion success rate and was more effective than the face mask in establishing PPV.

Link to abstract.