It channels oxygen and inhalational anaesthetic to the lungs. It can be used during anaesthesia, or while a patient is unconscious. Laryngeal mask airways are designed to be an easy way to secure the airway and ventilate a patient they are easier to place than tracheal intubation due to the lack of muscle relaxants and laryngoscopy. They are also less likely to damage teeth or the larynx itself. It may form an air-tight seal. Cuffs are available in multiple sizes.[1]
LMAs can be alternatives to the use of a face mask when using a bag-valve-mask device to prevent gastric insufflation.[2]