This article presents a life cycle assessment comparing the environmental impacts of disposable and reusable laryngeal mask airways (LMAs). The study focuses on two specific products: the one-time-use disposable UniqueTM LMA and the 40-time-use reusable ClassicTM LMA, assessing their full life cycle from manufacture to disposal.

Key Findings:

• Environmental Impact: The reusable LMA has a significantly better environmental profile compared to the disposable version. The major environmental burdens for the disposable LMA are related to the production of polymers, packaging, and waste management. In contrast, the impacts for the reusable LMA are mainly due to the energy and water used in washing and sterilization.
• Cost Considerations: From a cost perspective, when fully utilized, the reusable LMA is more economical per use compared to the disposable LMA.
• Sensitivity Analysis: The study also includes sensitivity analyses examining the effects of transportation methods, sterilization practices, and premature disposal on the environmental impacts of LMAs.

Recommendations:

• Usage Optimization: For reusable LMAs, optimizing the number of units per sterilization cycle and improving the energy efficiency of sterilization equipment can further reduce environmental impacts.
• Procurement Practices: For disposable LMAs, choosing products with less environmentally harmful materials and ordering in bulk from local suppliers can decrease negative impacts.