Laryngeal mask airway and method for its use

摘要

A laryngeal mask airway (LMA) is provided which can be easily and effectively used to intubate a patient with an endotracheal tube (ETT). The LMA of the invention is of the type having an inflatable mask and an airway tube connected to the mask. The airway tube comprises a first tube section having a distal end connected to the mask, and a second tube section having a distal end removably connected to the proximal end of the first tube section. The second tube section has longitudinally extending separation lines which allow it to be split apart. This feature enables complete removal of the LMA and successful incubation with the cuff of the ETT below the vocal cords of the patient.