Impact of Laryngeal Mask Airway Versus Endotracheal Intubation on Mechanical Power and Postoperative Respiratory Complications in Pediatric Patients: A Prospective Observational Study
This prospective observational study aims to compare two commonly used airway management methods-Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA) and Endotracheal Intubation (ETT)-in pediatric patients undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia. The primary objective is to evaluate the impact of LMA and ETT on intraoperative mechanical power, an emerging indicator of ventilator-induced lung stress. Secondary objectives include assessing postoperative respiratory complications such as cough, hypoxemia, laryngospasm, bronchospasm, increased secretions, and breath-holding episodes. No interventions will be assigned based on a study protocol; airway management will be determined solely by clinical requirements. Routine ventilator parameters will be recorded, and mechanical power will be calculated using a validated simplified formula.
• Children aged 2-5 years
• Body weight between 10-20 kg
• Patients classified as ASA physical status I-III
• Elective surgery planned under general anesthesia