Clinical evaluation of Ambu® AuraGain™ as a conduit for intubation in paediatric patients: a descriptive study

Abstract

Introduction: Many paediatric difficult airway guidelines have recommended supraglottic airway devices (SGAs) as an indispensable tool in the algorithm for managing failed intubation scenarios. It is used for maintaining ventilation in a difficult or failed intubation. The newer generation SGAs can be used as intubating conduits in patients with a difficult airway. The aim of this study was to report the efficacy and safety of Ambu® AuraGain™(Ambu A/S, Ballerup, Denmark) as a conduit for intubation in paediatric patients.Methods: Local ethics approval and informed consent were obtained before patient enrolment. Sixteen patients aged 3–12 years old were recruited. Following the induction of anaesthesia and insertion of the Ambu AuraGain, fibreoptic guided intubation was performed via the SGA. The primary outcome was the time taken for successful tracheal intubation. Secondary outcomes included the number of attempts and the time required for insertion and removal of Ambu AuraGain, oropharyngeal leak pressures, fibre optic grading of glottic views, and complications from the intubation.Results: The overall success rate concerning intubation was 87.5% (14 patients), with a mean intubation time of 57.0 ± 39.4 seconds. Successful first attempt intubations were achieved in 13 patients (81.3%). The results showed easy removal of the Ambu AuraGain device with a mean SGA removal time of 27.2 ± 19.8 seconds. No significant complications occurred throughout the study.Conclusion: The Ambu AuraGain device can be considered safe and effective as a conduit for intubation in paediatric patients.