Guedel Airway

The Guedel airway, also known as the oropharyngeal airway (OPA), is a medical device used to maintain or open a patient's airway by preventing the tongue from obstructing the pharynx during unconsciousness or sedation. It is typically made of rigid plastic or rubber and features a curved, hollow design that follows the natural anatomy of the oral cavity and oropharynx. The airway has a flange at the proximal end to prevent it from being inserted too far, while the distal end sits at the base of the tongue to keep the airway patent. Available in various sizes for adults, children, and infants, the Gudel airway is inserted upside down and then rotated 180 degrees to position it correctly, avoiding pushing the tongue backward. It is commonly used in emergency medicine, anesthesia, and critical care to facilitate ventilation and oxygenation when a patient cannot maintain their own airway. Proper sizing is crucial to ensure effectiveness and prevent complications such as gagging, vomiting, or airway trauma. Contraindications include intact gag reflexes or oral trauma. The Guedel airway is a simple, non-invasive tool that aids in airway management but does not replace endotracheal intubation in cases requiring secure airway protection.