i-gel Frequently Asked Questions
What material is i-gel made from?
i-gel is produced from a medical grade thermoplastic called SEBS (Styrene Ethylene Butadiene Styrene).
Does i-gel contain any natural rubber latex?
No, i-gel is made entirely from synthetic materials.
How can i-gel create a satisfactory perilaryngeal seal when it doesn't have an inflatable cuff?
The i-gel is a truly anatomical device. The soft, non-inflatable cuff fits snugly onto the perilaryngeal framework, mirroring the shape of the epiglottis, aryepiglottic folds, piriform fossae, peri-thyroid, peri-cricoid, posterior cartilages and spaces. Each receives an impression fit, thus supporting the seal by enveloping the laryngeal inlet. The seal created is sufficient for both spontaneously breathing patients and for IPPV.
Why does i-gel not have any epiglottic/aperture bars like some other supraglottic devices?
They are not necessary. i-gel has an artifical epiglottis called the 'epiglottis blocker'. This helps to prevent the epiglottis from down-folding. In the very unlikely event that an epiglottis should still down-fold, the airway channel exits so deeply into the bowl of the cuff, there is no danger of the epiglottis being able to interfere with the fresh gas flow.
What is the gastric channel for?
When correctly inserted, the tip of the i-gel will be located into the upper oesophageal opening, providing a conduit via the gastric channel to
the oesophagus and stomach. This then allows for suctioning, passing of a nasogastric tube and can facilitate venting.
What size of nasogastric tube can be inserted down the gastric channel?
In a size 3 and size 4 i-gel, up to a size 12 (FG). In a size 5 i-gel, up to a size 14(FG).
What action should be taken if a patient begins to regurgitate and liquid appears in the gastric channel?
If regurgitation is suspected or noticed during anaesthesia, then it is recommended the patient head end of the operating table is tilted down and, if the timing of the surgical procedure allows, the patient is turned onto a left or right lateral position. The i-gel should then be removed, thorough suctioning of the pharynx and hypopharynx undertaken, and the patient intubated for definitive securing of the airway.
If regurgitation is anticipated, then it is recommended that a naso-gastric tube is passed through the gastric channel into the patient's stomach and the stomach emptied. The naso-gastric tube can be left in-situ until the end of the anaesthetic.
What is the buccal cavity stabiliser?
It is the main stem of the device which contains the integral bite block and the airway and gastric channels. It is anatomically widened and concaved to eliminate the potential for rotation after insertion, thereby reducing the risk of malposition. It also provides vertical strength to aid insertion.
Is i-gel available in paediatric as well as adult sizes?
Paediatric sizes are currently under development. The current sizes allow for i-gel to be used on patients within a weight range from 30kg to 90+kg.
Can any liquid leak out of the i-gel cuff?
No. The material used to produce the product is solid throughout. The product does not contain any liquid gel.
What should I do if there is an air leak up the gastric channel?
A small air leak, air venting, through the gastric channel may be a useful mechanism to protect against gastric insufflation, but an excessive leak means the device is probably not seated properly. In such circumstances, remove the device and reinsert with a gentle jaw thrust applied by an assistant.
