Use of the ProSeal™ laryngeal mask airway in an infant with a repaired H-type tracheoesophageal fistula and tracheomalacia

The ProSeal™ laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) is a relatively new airway device with design features that improve the quality of positive pressure ventilation (PPV) and may decrease the risk of gastric aspiration. We describe the use of this device for the anesthesia management of an infant with an esophagocutaneous fistula following repair of an H-type tracheoesophageal fistula and tracheomalacia, in which avoidance of tracheal intubation was desired. This case report demonstrates that the PLMA may be a useful and practical alternative to tracheal intubation in an infant with a tenuous airway.