Which statement best describes the differences between a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) and an endotracheal tube (ETT)?

• A. LMA seals above the larynx and generally requires spontaneous ventilation; ETT passes through the vocal cords into the trachea providing a secure airway and controlled ventilation; aspiration risk higher with LMA
• B. LMA seals above the larynx and allows only controlled ventilation; ETT passes through the vocal cords into the trachea providing an unsecured airway
• C. ETT seals above the larynx; LMA passes through the vocal cords
• D. LMA is never used in anesthesia

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is where each airway device sits and how it supports ventilation and airway protection. An LMA sits above the laryngeal inlet, sealing around the upper opening without entering the trachea. Because it doesn’t go through the vocal cords, it provides a less secure airway and is typically used with spontaneous ventilation or light, assisted ventilation. An endotracheal tube, on the other hand, travels through the vocal cords into the trachea and is cuffed to seal the trachea, giving a secure airway that can be ventilated under full control with higher airway pressures. This setup also offers better protection against aspiration than an LMA.

So the best description is that the LMA seals above the larynx and generally allows spontaneous ventilation, while the ETT passes through the vocal cords into the trachea, providing a secure airway and controlled ventilation; aspiration risk is higher with the LMA.