When is it Safe to Use a Supraglottic Airway Device? Advanced Uses for SGA Devices

Purpose of Review In recent years, supraglottic airway (SGA) devices have been used extensively intraoperatively and in non-operating room anesthesia (NORA) locations. Their use in laparoscopic surgery, non-supine positions, endoscopy, and bronchoscopy has become common place in anesthesia practices. The purpose of this review is to canvass the recent literature for an evidence-based approach for vetting SGA devices for use in anesthetic procedures traditionally performed with an endotracheal tube (ETT) and in NORA locations. Recent Findings We found considerable studies utilizing SGA devices in innovative and non-traditional ways. Recent literature discussed the use of second- and third-generation SGA devices in NORA locations including bronchoscopy and endoscopy suites and in operating rooms for laparoscopic surgeries. Some studies have also used SGA devices in non-supine surgeries which traditionally require ETTs. Summary The efficacy and safety of the SGA devices have been vetted in several clinical studies since their inception. This manuscript is focused on the evolution of SGA devices with anesthesia practice to meet the needs of the patient inside and outside the operating room. We hope this article will encourage practitioners to use SGA devices with more ease and comfort in the various, non-conventional clinical settings without compromising patient safety.