A device for maintaining an airway in a patient comprises mask having a peripheralportion that forms a seal with the larynx when the mask is positioned in the laryngopharynx to thereby prevent ingress of extraneous fluids into the larynx and nairway tube connected to or formed with the mask for passing gas to the larynx whenthe mask is properly inserted into the laryngo pharynx. The peripheral portionof the mask includes a soft, flexible portion that contacts tissues surroundingthe laryngeal opening when the device is inserted into a patient, the soft, flexibleportion being arranged whereby application of pressurised gas to the airwaytube urges the soft, flexible portion into contact with the tissues surroundingthe laryngeal opening or the pharyngeal wall.
