A Comparative Study of Ambu Aura-i and Air-Q Supraglottic Airway Devices as Conduit for Blind Tracheal Intubation in Patients with Normal Airway

Ambu Aura-i and Air-Q Supraglottic Airway Devices as Conduit for Blind Tracheal Intubation

Abstract

Background: Aim: To compare Ambu Aura-i and Air-Q supraglottic airway devices (SAD) as conduit for blind tracheal intubation in terms  of First attempt and Over-all success rate. Subjects and Methods: A total of 176 consenting patients of ASA grade I/II, undergoing elective surgery under General Anaesthesia, requiring endotracheal intubation, were randomised into two groups of 88 each as Group I (Ambu Aura-i) and Group Q (Air-Q ILA). After induction of Anaesthesia, allocated device was inserted, Cuff was inflated, and device was checked for adequate ventilation. Appropriate size PVC endotracheal tube was inserted through SAD. The correct placement was confirmed by capnography and chest auscultation. The SAD was removed with the help of stabilizing rod. Conventional intubation using direct laryngoscopy was done in case of failure after 3 attempts. First attempt success rate and Over-all success rate of intubation derived at the end of study. Results: First attempt success rate of intubation was significantly more in Air-Q (21.6%) than Ambu Aura-i (9.1%) p-value= 0.036. Over-all success rate was also more in Air-Q (77.27%) than Ambu Aura-i (60.23%) p-value= 0.022. Conclusion: Air-Q can be considered a better conduit for blind tracheal intubation than Ambu Aura-i.