ABSTRACT
Background: There is increasing use of laryngeal mask airway in children because of ease of insertion and minimal disturbances in cardio respiratory system and lesser risk of airway injury during perioperative period as compared to endotracheal tube. It is also simple, well-tolerated, safe, reusable, cost effective method of airway management in paediatric patients. Intravenous propofol (1%) is a preferred induction agent for LMA insertion till date, while sevoflurane, a halogenated volatile inhalational, non-irritating anaesthetist agent with pleasant odour is also suitable for inhalational induction of children. This study was carried out to study and compare clinical efficacy of propofol and sevoflurane for laryngeal mask airway (LMA) insertion in children undergoing short surgical procedures.Methods: In this study, total 100 children of ASA grade I/II of either sex with age group 3-8 years, weighing between 10-20 kg were enrolled. They were induced with either sevoflurane (group S) or intravenous propofol (group P) 3 mg/kg. Then appropriate size LMA was inserted. Various parameters like jaw relaxation and ease of insertion attempts required hemodynamic changes were noted and compared in two groups.Results: In group P, 94% patients and groups S, 90% patients had full jaw relaxation. The LMA insertion was easy in 98% patients in groups P and 94% patients in groups S. In 98% patients of groups P and 96% patients in groups S, LMA was inserted successfully in first attempt. The mean time required for LMA insertion was 19.16±5.29 seconds in groups P and 20.8±6.39 seconds in groups S. Both the groups were comparable with respect to haemodynamic changes observed which were transient and clinically not significant though statically significant.Conclusions: Both the groups showed comparable and satisfactory LMA insertion conditions, hence both can be routinely used for induction of anaesthesia in children.