laryngeal mask airway (LMA)

Advantages

• easier to use than endotracheal tube because implementation does not require visualization of the vocal cords

Disadvantages

• the trachea is NOT directly intubated

Notes

Other features:

• tip lodged in pharyx
• closes off esophagus
• can vomit around mask

Average size for proper fit

• size 5 adult males
• size 4 adult females

More general terms

• device (medical device)

Additional terms

• advanced cardiac life support (ACLS)