It keeps a patient's airway open during anaesthesia or unconsciousness. It is a type of supraglottic airway.

A laryngeal mask is composed of an airway tube that connects to an elliptical mask with a cuff which is inserted through the patient's mouth, down the windpipe, and once deployed forms an airtight seal on top the glottis (unlike tracheal tubes which pass through the glottis) allowing a secure airway.

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