I-gel Plus Comparison Study

Supraglottic airway devices (SGAs) are widely used as alternatives to endotracheal intubation in anesthesiology and emergency medicine. The I-gel® (Intersurgical Ltd., UK) features a non-inflatable cuff for ease of insertion and excellent sealing. The I-gel plus® improves on this with a larger gastric channel, better airway tube, and extended cuff tip to enhance sealing pressure. Prior studies compared I-gel® to other SGAs like ProSeal or Supreme, showing variable sealing pressures, but direct comparisons between I-gel® and I-gel plus®, especially in elderly patients, are lacking. Elderly patients may experience upper airway anatomical changes affecting SGA performance. Higher sealing pressure is crucial for surgeries with increased intra-abdominal pressure (e.g., laparoscopic or robotic surgery) and can reduce respiratory complications in patients with airway hypersensitivity. This prospective crossover study will quantitatively assess differences in sealing pressure, fixation stability, and other outcomes. Both devices are approved by the Korean MFDS and will be used within approved indications for academic evaluation of efficacy in elderly patients.