Use of lubricating jelly for laryngeal mask airways.

Sir,

In view of the article titled “Proseal laryngeal mask airway: An alternative to endotracheal intubation in paediatric patients for short duration surgical procedures” by Lalwani et al.,[1] we would like to mention that, in this study the Proseal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) was lubricated with 2% Lignocaine jelly; however, only a water-soluble lubricant is recommended for use. This is because lubricants containing Lignocaine can delay the return of protective reflexes of the patients's airway prior to removal of LMA, and hence are not advisable for use. In addition to that, Lignocaine can possibly provoke allergic reactions, or may affect the surrounding structures, including the vocal cords.[2]