The Gastro-Laryngeal Tube (G-LT) is a modification of the laryngeal tube which provides
a dedicated channel for the insertion of an endoscope while acting as a supraglottic
airway for ventilation. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and effectiveness
of this device in patients undergoing anesthesia for interventional endoscopic biliopancreatic
procedures (IEBPPs).
A total of 22 patients were included in the study. The G-LT was inserted successfully
in all patients. Arterial oxygen saturation was stable; the mean value was 97.9 %.
The IEBPPs were performed successfully in all patients through the endoscopic channel,
with a mean duration of 99 minutes. The maneuverability of the endoscope was considered
good in all patients. There were two cases of sore throat after the procedures, two
cases of asymptomatic erosion of the upper esophageal mucosa, one case of Mallory–Weiss
syndrome, and one case of pancreatitis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography.
Our results suggest that the G-LT is an effective and secure device for airway management
and for use during IEBPPs.
