Comparing the Functional Analysis of Baska^® Mask with I-gel in Short Surgeries – A Prospective Randomized Trial

Aims: We have compared sealing pressure, usability, and complications of two second-generation supraglottic airway devices-Baska^® mask and I-gel. Settings and Designs: The study design involves prospective randomized controlled trial. Materials and Methods: The study was undertaken involving 44 patients of the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I and II, aged 20–70 years, who underwent surgical procedures of short duration under general anesthesia. Patients were randomly categorized into two groups of 22 each: Group B (Baska^® mask) and Group I (I-gel). The main objective was to compare oropharyngeal leak pressure (OLP). Statistical Analysis: Continuous variables were compared between the two groups using an unpaired t-test. Categorical variables were compared using the Chi-square test and insertion attempts using Fisher’s exact test. Results: Group B had significantly higher mean OLP (32.22 ± 2.52 cmH₂O vs. 26.18 ± 2.42 cmH₂O, P < 0.001). In Group I, 97.1% of patients had very easy insertion (Grade 1), 2.9% had easy insertion (Grade 2) and Group B had very easy insertion in 50% of patients, easy in 36.4%, and difficult in 13.6% of patients (P = 0.009). Group B took a longer time for successful insertion than Group I (39.89 ± 7.15 s vs. 28.19 ± 3.29 s, P < 0.001). Conclusion: For positive pressure ventilation, both I-gel and Baska^® masks proved to be successful, with I-gel being easier and quicker to insert. It is possible to employ the Baska^® mask with superior seal pressures as an alternative to endotracheal intubation in elective surgeries if there are no patient contraindications.