Comparison of weight-based and pinna size method for ProSeal laryngeal mask airway size selection in children receiving general anesthesia: A randomized clinical study

Several methods are in use for LMA ProSeal™ size selection in pediatric patients. Weight-based method is most commonly used. Pinna size-based method is a promising new technique for accurate size selection. A total of 146 children aged between 6 months and 12 years undergoing surgery under general surgery were included. They were randomized into either pinna-based group (group X) or weight-based group (group Y). Both groups were compared for accurate placement of ProSeal™ laryngeal mask airway (PLMA), ease of insertion, number of attempts needed, and peak airway pressures. A Comparable number of patients had a Brimacombe score of 3 and above, indicating correct placement in both groups ( = 0.407). PLMA was easily inserted in 79.5% and 87.7% of patients of groups X and Y, respectively ( = 0.180). Insertion was found to be difficult in 20.5% of patients in group X, whereas it was difficult in only 12.3% of patients of group Y ( = 0.180). The two groups were comparable as per the number of attempts needed for insertion ( = 0.161). Mean peak airway pressures too were comparable between both groups. Ease of insertion too, was statistically insignificant between both groups. Pinna size-based estimation of LMA size is an effective alternative method to weight-based selection.