i-gel® from Intersurgical: clinical evidence listing

Tiesmeier J, Emmerich M. Minerva Anestesiol. 2013 Feb;79(2):212-3

Three case studies where an i-gel® was used in an emergency situation are presented on the back of the authors’ previous knowledge that this SAD has ‘advantageous characteristics’, including quick insertion time, good seal pressures and high success rates. Cases were: a ‘violent’ but sedated male patient; a 69-year-old patient suffering a cerebral seizure; and an unconscious and intoxicated patient found at home. Regurgitation and aspiration were not seen in any case. Authors conclude that, alongside other pre-clinical emergency situations, i-gel® can be used in cases of sustained spontaneous breathing, and ‘could be considered for extended use outside the hospital’.

Link to abstract.

Nolan JP, Ornato JP, Parr MJA, Perkins GD, Soar J. Resuscitation 2013; 84(2): 129-36

A summary of the key papers published across the full spectrum of cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Abstract text

Jagannathan N, Sommers K, Sohn LE, Sawardekar A, Shah RD, Mukherji II, Miller S, Voronov P, Seraphin S. Paediatr Anaesth.; 23(2): 127-33

Total of 170 children were assigned to either the i-gel® or LMA Supreme®, with leak pressure the primary outcome measured. Secondary evaluations included insertion time, insertion success rate, fibreoptic view and complications, to name a few. Resulting median leak pressure was higher with i-gel® and the authors conclude it could be a ‘useful alternative to the Supreme®’.

Link to abstract.

Bradley AE, White MC, Engelhardt T, Bayley G, Beringer RM. Paediatr Anaesth. 2013 Nov;23(11):1006-9

In this survey distributed to the members of APAGBI, the current usage of supraglottic airway devices in routine practice and difficult airways in the UK was assessed. Of the 244 members, 88% preferred the use of first-generation devices, with the most important design feature being the availability of a complete range of sizes. 77% would like to see more randomised controlled trials on SAD safety in children.

Link to abstract.

Huitink JM, Koopman EM, Bouwman RA, Craenen A, Verwoert M, Krage R, Visser IE, Erwteman M, van Groeningen D, Tijink R and Schauer A. Anaesthesia. 2013 Jan;68(1):74-8

Study on tracheal intubation in manikins and patients with a camera embedded in the tip of the tracheal tube Vivasight™ pre-loaded in a size 5 i-gel®. All attempted intubations were successful, with a mean time of 1.4 seconds, and was faster when compared to intubation via LMA®.

Link to abstract.