Resistance and additional inspiratory work imposed by the laryngeal mask airway

Abstract

Laryngeal mask airways and tracheal tubes were studied to determine both their resistance to constant gas flows and additional inspiratory work during simulated inspiration. Laryngeal mask airways imposed less resistance and required lower additional inspiratory work compared with the corresponding sized tracheal tubes. If inspiratory loading during anaesthesia is an important consideration, then the laryngeal mask airway may be preferable to a tracheal tube.