Anesthesia & Clinical Research
Open Access

Abstract

Use of Supraglottic Airway Devices in the Prone Position

Yukiko Kubo, Shuya Kiyama, Akihiro Suzuki, Ichiro Kondo and Shoichi Uezono

Supraglottic airway devices (SADs) have revolutionized airway management. These advanced devices incorporate specific features to protect against gastric regurgitation and aspiration and also create a high oropharyngeal seal pressure. These developments have broadened indications for SADs, and some anesthetists use SADs with the patient in the prone position. SADs are also used as rescue device in instances of unintentional tracheal extubation. In addition, there is the elective use of SADs in the prone position. However, the use of SADs in the prone position remains controversial. This review aims to examine the published evidence regarding the use of SADs in patients undergoing surgery in the prone position.