Assessing the ease and success of placement of three supraglottic devices (i-gel, LMA protector, and Ambu AuraGain) in relation to the operator’s experience: A prospective randomized study

Background: The present study aimed to evaluate the ease and success of placement of the i-gel, laryngeal mask airway (LMA) Protector, and Ambu AuraGain in relation to the operator’s experience. Material and Methods: This prospective randomized study included 90 patients of either sex aged 18–60 years, classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I or II, with 30 patients allotted to each of the three groups (groups A, B, and C). In groups A, B, and C, the airway was secured using the i-gel, LMA Protector, and Ambu AuraGain, respectively. The primary objective of the study was to evaluate the ease and success rate of placement of these three supraglottic airway devices (SADs), while the secondary objective was to compare their placement with respect to operator’s experience. Results: The insertion time of the SAD was 14.12 ± 6.82, 19.17 ± 9.07, and 14.86 ± 6.42 s in groups A, B, and C, respectively. Statistically significant differences were observed between the i-gel and LMA Protector ( p = 0.011) and between the Ambu AuraGain and LMA Protector ( p = 0.029). The first-attempt success rate for placement was higher in group C (93.33%) compared with groups A and B (both 86.67%). The i-gel can be inserted quickly and easily, even by residents with limited airway management experience; however, placement of the LMA Protector was more difficult for residents with