A comparison of Laryngeal Mask Unique in denticulate and edentulate geriatric patients

A Comparison of Laryngeal Mask UniqueTM in Denticulate and Edentulate Geriatric PatientsAim of this study: Because of the patients cheeks are straight inside, mask ventilation in geriatric and edentulous patients may be ineffective or even impossible. Laryngeal mask airway is a good alternative when the standard mask doesn?t fit the patient?s face.The aim of this study is to compare success of first attempt insertion of laryngeal mask UniqueTM, ease of insertion, time of insertion and oropharyngeal leak pressure in denticulate and edentulate patients aged over 65 years.Methods: We studied 66 patients (ASA physical status I-II-III; 33 edentulate, 33 denticulate patients; aged over 65 years) with an indication of laryngeal mask insertion. After the laryngeal mask insertion; the groups were compared for first attempt success rate, ease of insertion, time of insertion, oropharyngeal leak pressure and hemodynamic effects of laryngeal mask insertion.Results: First attempt success rate of laryngeal mask Unique was higher in denticulate patients than in edentulate patients. Measured values were 78, 7% and 60, 6%, respectively (p=0,047). Oropharyngeal leak pressure was 21, 75 cmH2O for denticulate patients and 20, 75 cmH2O for edentulate patients. Time of insertion was 14, 40 seconds for denticulate and 13, 43 seconds for the edentulate patients. Ease of insertion was 90, 9 % and 75, 7 %, respectively.Conclusion: First attempt success rate of laryngeal mask Unique was higher in denticulate patients. Ease of insertion, time of insertion, oropharyngeal leak pressure and laryngopharyngeal and systemic morbidity were similar for each group.Key Words: Laryngeal mask airway, edentulate geriatric patients.