What Is Supraglottic Airway?

Supraglottic airways (SGAs) are a group of airway devices that can be inserted into the pharynx to allow ventilation, oxygenation, and administration of anesthetic gases, without the need for endotracheal intubation.

What does supraglottic airway mean?

Supraglottic airway devices (SADs) are devices that keep the upper airway clear for unobstructed ventilation. SADs have also been called supraglottic airways and extraglottic or periglottic airway devices.

How does a supraglottic airway work?

Supraglottic airway devices are a mainstay of emergency management. They open the upper airway, allowing a person to breathe when there is an airway obstruction. Supraglottic devices such as the laryngeal mask airway (LMA) were once primarily used in surgical settings where a patient was under general anesthesia.