Comparison of the clinical performances of i-gel and baska mask

Background: Various types of supraglottic airway devices (SGAD) have been developed so far. Baska mask and I-gel are two different SGADs used in daily anesthesia practice. The purpose of this study is to compare the ease of use of Baska Mask and I-gel regarding insertion duration, success and complication rates. Methods: 30 patients with ASA I-II were enrolled in this randomized clinical study. Heart rate (HR), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), oxygen saturation (SpO2) and integrated pulmonary index (IPI) were monitored. SGAD insertion duration, success in the first insertion attempt, total insertion success, gastric drainage tube insertion duration, leak pressures and IPI values were recorded. Perioperative and postoperative complications were evaluated. Results: Insertion duration was significantly longer in Baska mask group compared to the I-gel group (61.2 +/- 43.4 sec vs 20.9 +/- 13.8 sec; p = 0.012). Success rate in the first insertion attempt and leak pressures were similar. The gastric catheter insertion duration, ease and IPI values were similar. There was no difference in terms of complications. Conclusions: Even though higher insertion duration, Baska mask may be an alternative to I-gel in positive pressure ventilation.