Comparative efficacy of size 1 I-gel and Air-Q supraglottic airway devices in infants: A randomized controlled trial

Authors : Mukadder Şanlı, Zekine Begeç, Muharrem Uçar

Pages : 163-167

Doi:10.21673/anadoluklin.1831623

View : 63 | Download : 207

Publication Date : 2026-01-24

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Aim: Supraglottic airway devices (SGAs) have become fundamental tools in anesthesia and emergency airway management (1). The I-Gel; a second-generation device; features a non-inflatable thermoplastic elastomer cuff designed to mirror perilaryngeal anatomy and a gastric channel to mitigate aspiration risk. Conversely; the Air-Q SGA is characterized by a curved; rigid tube intended to facilitate intubation and a design that optimizes epiglottic isolation. This study aimed to compare the clinical performance of the size 1 I-Gel and Air-Q devices in an infant population. Methods: This prospective; randomized controlled trial enrolled 61 ASA I-II infants (<5 kg) undergoing elective lower abdominal surgery. Patients were randomized to receive either the I-Gel or Air-Q device. The primary outcome was airway leak pressure. Secondary metrics included leak volume; insertion time; number of attempts; insertion conditions; and quality of ventilation. Results: The I-Gel group demonstrated a significantly shorter mean insertion time (17.00 ± 4.27 s) compared to the Air-Q group (23.10 ± 5.52 s) (p < 0.001). Ventilation quality scores were significantly superior in the I-Gel group (p = 0.039). Furthermore; leak volume was significantly lower with the I-Gel compared to the Air-Q (p = 0.040). Conclusion: In infants weighing less than 5 kg; the Size 1 I-Gel demonstrated superiority over the Air-Q regarding speed of insertion; seal integrity (lower leak volume); and ventilation quality.
Keywords : Anestezi, havayolu yönetimi, infant, laringeal maske havayolu

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