A device for maintaining an airway in a patient, the device including a mask having a peripheral portion that forms a seal with the larynx when the mask is positioned in the laryngo pharynx to thereby prevent ingress of extraneous fluids into the larynx an airway tube connected to or formed with the mask for passing gas to the larynx when the mask is properly inserted into the laryngo pharynx and one or more elongated members located on the mask, wherein the application of force to the elongated members causes elastic deformation of the device, thereby facilitating insertion of the device into the patient.
