Intraocular pressure changes in patients undergoing cataract extraction and lens implantation: laryngeal mask airway versus endotracheal tube

Abstract

ABSTRACTObjectives: To investigate the influence on intraocular pressure (IOP) of airway management with a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) or tracheal tube (ETT), and secondly to compare the devices with regard to their impact on IOP.Design: Prospective, randomized observational study over a four-month period (August—November 2002)Setting: University-affiliated tertiary level hospital in Pretoria, South AfricaSubjects: Forty ASA I and II adult patients undergoing unilateral cataract extraction and lens implantation under general anaesthesiaOutcome measures: Changes in intraocular pressure after placement of airway deviceMethods: Following a standard anaesthestic induction with propofol and atracurium, airway management was randomized to LMA or ETT.IOP was measured pre-induction, 3 min post induction but before airway manipulation, 20 sec post LMA or ETT insertion and finally 2 min post airway instrumentation.Results: There was a small increase in mean IOP in the LMA group, which was statistically insignifican...