• L Robbins and N R Connelly.
• Department of Anesthesiology, Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, MA 01199, USA.
• J Clin Anesth. 2000 Nov 1;12(7):555-7.

Study ObjectiveTo evaluate the usefulness in pediatric patients of the cuffed oropharyngeal airway (COPA), an airway device with an inflatable cuff around its distal portion, and which provides airway patency in the majority of anesthetized adult patients.DesignProspective evaluation.SettingPediatric operating room of a tertiary-care medical center.Patients50 anesthetized ASA physical status I pediatric patients, under 6 yr of age undergoing elective surgery.InterventionsPatients were fitted with a size 7 COPA placed following anesthetic induction. If an adequate airway was not obtained, a size 8 COPA was placed. If an adequate airway was not obtained despite repositioning the size 8, the COPA was considered failed.Measurements And Main ResultsThe ease of insertion and ability to manage the airways were evaluated. Complications were evaluated on insertion, during maintenance, and upon awakening. The ability to positive pressure ventilate via the COPA was assessed. The size 7 COPA obtained an initial fit in 38 (76%) of the patients. Nine patients were managed with a size 8 COPA. The COPA was unsuccessful in 3 (6%) patients. Laryngospasm occurred in three patients. Blood was not visible on any of the COPAs. Positive pressure ventilation was achieved with 30 +/- 7 cm H(2)O pressure.ConclusionsThe results using the COPA in pediatric patients seem to parallel the experience of using larger sizes in adult patients.

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