DM1 Pt4-2 Laryngeal mask airway

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a laryngeal mask airway (LMA)?

Answer 1

The LMA was developed as an alternative to endotracheal intubation to protect the airway from aspiration during anesthesia without the risks associated with intubation.

Question 2

How does the LMA conform to the human anatomy?

Answer 2

The LMA is designed to conform to the anatomy of the laryngopharynx in humans, making it a suitable alternative for airway management.

Question 3

What is a v-gel and how does it differ from an LMA?

Answer 3

A v-gel is a supraglottic airway device similar to a human LMA but developed for cats. It has a dedicated soft, non-inflatable cuff that conforms to the anatomy of a cat’s oro and laryngopharynx.

Question 4

How is the v-gel placed in a cat?

Answer 4

After the induction of anesthesia, the cat’s tongue is gently pulled forward, and the v-gel is inserted with the cuff facing ventrally until it cannot be inserted further. The device’s shoulder touches the pharyngeal arch, and deeper insertion requires excessive force.

Question 5

What is the function of the dorsal cuff in the v-gel device?

Answer 5

The dorsal cuff of the v-gel occludes the trachea, and it must be inflated with the appropriate volume of air to secure the device in place.

Question 6

How can the v-gel be secured after placement?

Answer 6

The v-gel can be secured around the back of the cat’s head, similar to how an endotracheal tube is secured.

Question 7

What are some advantages of using a v-gel in cats?

Answer 7

• It is useful in cats with laryngeal spasm or a narrow larynx/trachea.
• It allows bronchoscopy and maintains a protected airway.
• It facilitates closed system anesthesia, IPPV, and reliable oxygen delivery during procedures.

Question 8

In what situation should an endotracheal (ET) tube be preferred over a v-gel?

Answer 8

If there is a high risk of aspiration, such as during a dental procedure or in cats with a full stomach or gastrointestinal dysfunction, a traditional ET tube may be safer due to the limited clinical evaluation of v-gels in preventing aspiration.

Question 9

What limitations exist in the use of v-gel devices in cats?

Answer 9

V-gels have undergone limited clinical evaluation in cats, and their ability to maintain an effective seal and prevent aspiration has not been widely studied in clinical patients.

Question 10

How often can each v-gel tube be used in clinical practice?

Answer 10

Each v-gel tube can only be used approximately 40 times before needing replacement.