Quantification of aerosol generation during positive pressure ventilation via a supraglottic airway with an intentional leak.

A study was conducted to determine if air leakage around supraglottic airway devices (SADs) used during general anesthesia generates high concentrations of respiratory aerosol, which could pose a risk of airborne disease transmission to healthcare providers. The study involved monitoring aerosol levels during positive pressure ventilation with and without intentional leaks in two UK hospitals. The results showed that SADs did not generate high concentrations of respiratory aerosol, even with a large airway leak. These findings suggest that SADs should not be classified as aerosol-generating procedures and do not require additional airborne precautions. [Extracted from the article]