Abstract
Background: The laryngeal mask airway (LMA) has reached ample popularity for the management of airway during surgery. Propofol, used as induction agent, causes change in blood pressure and heart rate (HR) while insertion of LMA. Sevoflurane, whereas, has the potential to be a good induction agent as propofol. We have compared propofol and sevoflurane for easy insertion of LMA among adults in minor surgeries.

Aim and Objectives: The primary objective of the study was to compare the ease of insertion of LMA and its characteristics related to insertion among adults in minor elective surgeries using intravenous propofol or inhalational sevoflurane. While time taken to set induction and actual event of LMA insertion along with number of attempts, jaw relaxation time, LMA insertion time, apnea time, monitoring hemodynamic changes, and occurrence of complications were taken as secondary objectives.

Materials and Methods: It was a prospective and observational study done in Department of Anesthesiology and Operation Theaters of Fortis Hospital, Kolkata, after getting ethical approval. Total 100 patients were recruited by consecutive sampling and divided into two groups - P (propofol) and S (sevoflurane) group. Anesthesia induction time, jaw relaxation time, LMA insertion time, etc. were noted. LMA insertion conditions were assessed by a 3-point scale using six variables, total score was calculated for each group. Hemodynamic parameters and induction complications were also recorded.

Results: There was no significant difference in demographic parameters, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, Modified Mallampati Grading, and LMA size, between the groups. LMA insertion time was comparable between the two groups. Regarding complications, there was no incidence of coughing while minor gagging (4%) and laryngospasm (6%) were noted only with sevoflurane. Final summation of scores showed excellent insertion characteristics with propofol (94%) and sevoflurane (84%), respectively, with no significant difference.

Conclusion: Inhalational sevoflurane may be regarded as a viable alternative to inj. propofol for insertion of laryngeal mask among adults in minor elective surgeries.

Key words: Induction Agent; Laryngeal Mask Airway; Propofol; Sevoflurane; Vital Capacity Technique