The ProSeal LMA (PLMA) differs from classic LMA in several design features. Which feature of the PLMA specifically reduces the risk of pulmonary aspiration?
- A Its softer cuff provides a better perilaryngeal seal than classic LMA
- B It can be used in controlled ventilation with pressures up to 40 cmH2O
- C A dedicated drainage channel leading to the oesophagus allows passage of a gastric tube to decompress the stomach and reroutes regurgitated fluid away from the glottis ✓
- D PLMA has an in-built bite block preventing device compression and reducing leak
Explanation
The ProSeal LMA has a second posterior drainage tube aligned with the oesophagus (in addition to the airway tube), which serves two critical functions: (1) a gastric tube can be passed through it to actively decompress the stomach, reducing regurgitation risk; and (2) if regurgitation occurs, the fluid channels through this drainage tube away from the glottis, minimising aspiration. This anatomical design provides a higher seal pressure (≥25 cmH2O vs ~18 cmH2O for classic LMA) and the drainage channel makes it the preferred SGA when there is moderate aspiration risk in controlled ventilation cases.
Reference: Morgan & Mikhail's Clinical Anesthesiology, 6th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.