Use of the laryngeal mask airway after oesophageal intubation

We have compared insertion of a tracheal tube and laryngeal mask airway (LMA) both with and without the presence of a tube in the oesophagus in 20 ASA I and II patients undergoing elective laparoscopy. After induction of anaesthesia and neuromuscular block, we measured the times for an experienced anaesthetist to correctly position both an LMA and a tracheal tube with and without a tube in the oesophagus. The time to intubation was significantly less with the LMA than with the tracheal tube, both with and without an oesophageal tube in place (P<0.05). We conclude that if a tracheal tube is placed unintentionally in the oesophagus, an LMA may be used subsequently to provide rapid and effective oxygenation of the patient.