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Extraglottic devices are commonly used in both prehospital and in-hospital settings for airway management. However, some recent studies have raised concerns that the devices' large inflated cuffs may cause vascular compression, potentially leading to compromised cerebral perfusion. These authors reviewed neck computed tomography (CT) imaging studies for 17 emergency department patients who had extraglottic devices placed by prehospital providers. A neuroradiologist determined whether any carotid artery compression was evident.
Patients' ages ranged from 10 to 69 years; 94% were men. Twelve patients had laryngeal mask airways in place, four had Combitubes, and one had a King-laryngeal tube. No patient had evidence of carotid artery compressio…