When is the extraglottic airway used?

The extraglottic airway is designed specifically for use in scenarios where the patient has a compromised airway and is unable to maintain adequate ventilation autonomously. This makes it particularly suitable for a deeply unconscious casualty who is unable to breathe on their own effectively.

In situations where a person is deeply unconscious, there is a high risk of airway obstruction due to loss of protective reflexes, such as gag reflex and the ability to spontaneously breathe. The extraglottic airway provides a method to secure the airway and allows for effective ventilation, supporting the casualty's oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal.

In cases where the patient is conscious and breathing well, the use of extraglottic airways is unnecessary, as the patient can maintain their airway independently. Therefore, using an extraglottic device in such a scenario could potentially cause harm or discomfort without providing any benefit.

Similarly, while respiratory distress can be a serious condition, the application of an extraglottic airway is not warranted in every case of respiratory distress, especially if the patient is still able to maintain their airway and breathing. The extraglottic device should be reserved for those unable to protect their airway.

Finally, using this type of airway as a first response to any traumatic injury is not