An evaluation of the insertion and function of a new supraglottic airway device, the King LT™, during spontaneous ventilation

Trials of the King LTTM (LT, King Systems, Noblesville, IN) in controlled ventilation of the lungs have shown that it is an effective supraglottic airway device. We designed this study to evaluate the King LTTM regarding ease of insertion, position within the airway, and anatomic sealing properties during spontaneous ventilation in 50 ASA physical status I-III, Mallampati I-III, adult patients undergoing routine general anesthesia. Anesthesia was induced with up to 2 mu g/kg fentanyl and 1.5-2 mg/kg propofol and maintained with 70% N2O/30%O-2 and isoflurane. Insertion time, oropharyngeal leak pressures, fiberoptic position, and spirometry and hemodynamic data were recorded. Any complications were noted. Insertion was determined to be easy and a patent airway was achieved in all patients. First, second, and third attempt insertion rates were 86%, 12%, and 2%, respectively. Time to place the King LTTM was < 5 s in 90% of cases. Baseline leak pressures were 31 +/- 8.8 cm H2O (17-50 cm H2O) Complications included laryngospasm (1) and coughing (3) on extubation. The incidence of sore throat at I h and 24 h postoperatively was 22% and 15%, respectively. The King LTTM is a simple and reliable supraglottic airway device for airway management during spontaneous ventilation.