Review Article

Complications Associated with the Use of Supraglottic Airway Devices in Perioperative Medicine

Table 3

Possible factors implicated in the development of postoperative sore throat with SGAs.

FactorMechanism

Insertion techniqueLeading edge of deflated cuff may cause trauma
Inflated cuff causes more epiglottic downfolding, which increases POST
Repeated attempts are associated with increased POST

Size of deviceSmaller sizes of SGAs are associated with less POST

Use of lubricantsAdequate lubrication is essential
Lidocaine gel is associated with an increase in POST

Overinflation of the cuffSome studies have shown decreased POST with intracuff pressure monitoring

Duration of surgeryIncreased POST in operations of over 60 min duration

Airway gasesLack of humidification can dry mucosal surfaces and increase POST