i-gel® from Intersurgical: clinical evidence listing

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.

Chauhan G, Nayar P, Seth A, Gupta K, Panwar M, Agrawal N. J Anaesth Clin Pharmacol 2013; 29(1): 56-60

Prospective, randomised study conducted in 80 fasted patients, split equally between i-gel® and PLMA, of ASA grades I/II. Ease and speed of insertions were primary outcomes measured, with i-gel® significantly quicker and easier than PLMA. Post-operative complications also lower in i-gel® group.

Link to abstract

Quinn AC, Milne D, Columb M, Gorton H and Knight M. Br J Anaesth. 2013 Jan;110(1):74-80

The purpose of this UK-wide study was to further evaluate the predetermined rate that one in 250 obstetric patients suffer failed intubation whilst undergoing general anaesthesia. Due to the lack of national figures, the study used the UK Obstetric Surveillance System (UKOSS) of data collection in centres across the UK to record incidence, risk factors and any reports of failed intubations. All contacted centres responded, equalling 57 completed reports, giving a unit-based estimation of one case in every 224 patients. Univariate analyses also recorded in detail in this report.

Link to abstract.

Russo SG, Cremer S, Eich C, Jipp M, Cohnen J, Strack M, Quintel M & Mohr A. BR J Anaesth 2012; 109(6): 996-1004

This randomized cross-over study of 12 volunteer patients was conducted primarily to measure the in situ position of the LMA Supreme® and i-gel® via MRI scan. Position was also assessed functionally and optically by fibrescope. Results showed that the devices differed significantly: the LMA Supreme® protruded deeper into the oesophageal sphincter, whilst i-gel® caused greater compression of the tongue. Glottic aperture reduction and hyoid bone displacement were also measured. Authors deem the results relevent to the risk of aspiration, glottic narrowing, airway resistance and soft-tissue morbidity.

Link to abstract.