Impact of Laryngeal Mask Airway Versus Endotracheal Intubation on Mechanical Power and Postoperative Respiratory Complications in Pediatric Patients: A Prospective Observational Study

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of two common airway management methods—Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA) and Endotracheal Intubation (ETT)—in children aged 2 to 5 years undergoing elective surgery with general anesthesia. This study aims to compare how these methods influence intraoperative mechanical power, a measure linked to lung stress caused by ventilation. It also looks at postoperative respiratory problems such as cough, low oxygen levels, laryngospasm, bronchospasm, increased secretions, and breath-holding episodes. The study is observational, meaning the choice between LMA and ETT is made by the anesthesiologist based on clinical needs rather than randomly assigned. Mechanical power will be calculated using ventilator data collected at two times during surgery: immediately after airway placement and at surgery end before awakening. Postoperative respiratory complications will be recorded in the recovery unit. No additional procedures or changes to routine care will be made. Participants will undergo standard anesthesia with airway management by LMA or ETT as decided by their doctor. Mechanical power and respiratory outcomes will be monitored by different study team members to avoid bias. The research will include about 100 children, divided evenly between the two airway methods. The study will assess mechanical power during surgery and track respiratory complications until discharge from recovery, with no added interventions or follow-up beyond the immediate postoperative period.

Comparison of Laryngeal Mask Airway and Endotracheal Intubation on Mechanical Power in Pediatric Patients