Laryngeal mask airway in anesthetic care: clinical cases and discussion.

The laryngeal mask airway (LMA) is rapidly becoming an essential tool in the anesthetist's armamentarium for airway management. Approved for use in the United States in 1992, the LMA has several uses, notably anesthesia traditionally administered by mask. It can be used in a variety of clinical situations including prolonged surgery, management of the difficult airway, and control of the airway in emergency situations. Techniques are described for the use and maintenance of the LMA. Two illustrative clinical cases are presented.