[The positioning of reinforced laryngeal masks (LMA) with the "Zerer-introducer"].
OBJECTIVE: Correct and rapid positioning of reinforced laryngeal masks (LMA) is often a problem in anaesthetics. Although different techniques have been developed, none of them are satisfactory. A newly designed introduction device was used to place reinforced laryngeal masks. These are first results of a clinical observational study. METHODS: A special fork fixed on a handhold was constructed. The introduction of the LMA was possible in an arched movement down to the hypopharynx using appropriate sizes for different sizes of LMA's. RESULTS: The intubation in 500 surgical cases (30 % adult, 70 % children, mostly in ENT-surgery) was easy and rapidly performed. A leading finger for placement was not necessary. There were neither cases of rotation nor retrograde flexion of the top of the mask. Direct vision by the ENT-specialist revealed no evidence of any injuries of the palate or throat. CONCLUSION: A newly designed introduction device allows a fast and efficient placement of reinforced laryngeal masks and contributes to the safety of this mode of application.