Comparing Airway Devices for Elderly Patients During Surgery

Supraglottic airway devices (SGAs) are important tools used during surgeries that require general anesthesia. These devices help patients breathe without needing a breathing tube placed into the windpipe, which can be more comfortable and easier to insert. This study focuses on comparing two similar devices: the I-gel® and the newer I-gel plus®, specifically looking at how well they seal in elderly patients' airways.

The study is particularly important because older patients often have changes in their airway anatomy that might affect how well these devices work. A good seal is crucial for preventing air leaks during surgery, especially for procedures that increase pressure in the abdomen like laparoscopic surgeries. The better the seal, the lower the risk of breathing complications during and after surgery.

This research will help doctors understand which device works better for elderly patients by measuring:

• How well each device seals the airway (sealing pressure)
• How stable the device stays in place
• How easy it is to insert
• How long it takes to insert properly
• Whether patients experience any throat discomfort afterward

The study will involve 43 patients aged 65-85 who are having relatively short surgeries (under 3 hours). Participants will receive both devices in a random order so researchers can compare them directly in the same patient. This crossover design makes the results more reliable.

Understanding these differences is valuable because:

• Elderly patients often need special consideration for anesthesia
• Better airway management can reduce complications
• Improved devices can make surgeries safer and more comfortable
• Doctors can make more informed choices about which device to use

This research builds on previous studies comparing the I-gel® to other devices, but is the first to directly compare these two versions in elderly patients. The results could lead to better anesthesia practices for our aging population. As people live longer and have more surgeries later in life, studies like this help ensure their safety and comfort during medical procedures.

The study excludes patients with certain conditions that might affect airway device performance, such as severe obesity or digestive issues that increase aspiration risk. This helps ensure the results are accurate for typical elderly surgical patients. The researchers will monitor for common issues like sore throat after surgery, which affects patient comfort and recovery.

For families and caregivers, this type of research means that when your elderly loved one needs surgery, their medical team will have better information to choose the most appropriate breathing device. This can contribute to a smoother anesthesia experience and potentially fewer complications after surgery. The study is planned for late 2025 at a university hospital in Korea, following all necessary regulatory approvals.