Seguridad y efectividad de la máscara laríngea en amigdalectomía y adenoidectomía: una revisión sistemática de la literatura

Background: The laryngeal mask airway is a medical device that must be used with precise indications and contraindications. Its use in tonsillectomies and adenoidectomies has been reported to generate controversy. Through the present study an attempt is made to evaluate the effectiveness and the security of the laryngeal mask airway in tonsillectomies and adenoidectomies. Methods: A systematic review. Results: 16 studies were obtained as a result of the systematic search of the published evidence. They were analyzed with methodological rigor and the following results were obtained: The flexible laryngeal mask airway brings about fewer respiratory adverse effects during the induction and the emergence of anesthesia than the endotracheal tube. It is effective in preventing sanguineous bronchoaspiration during surgery. Furthermore, it must be used by trained personnel and in collaboration with the surgeon to avoid adverse events like displacement, obstruction or occupation of the operating field. Conclusions: the flexible laryngeal mask airway is a useful and safe alternative for the handling of the airways in tonsillectomies and adenoidectomies by its advantages in the induction and emergence of surgery since it triggers less protective reflections of the airway at the moment. In order to avoid intraoperating complications one must have experience in its use plus empathy must exist between the surgical team and the anesthesiologist.