In airway management, nasopharyngeal airways (NPAs) are indispensable tools used by paramedics, anesthesiologists, and intensive care providers to keep the upper airway patent. While their function is universal—to bypass soft tissue obstruction in the pharynx—the material from which they are manufactured plays a major role in clinical performance. Today, most NPAs are made of either polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or medical-grade silicone. Each material offers unique advantages, and understanding these differences helps clinicians and procurement teams make informed decisions. This article compares PVC and silicone NPAs, focusing on patient comfort, safety, durability, and healthcare economics.  PVC Nasopharyngeal Airways   Characteristics PVC is a widely used thermoplastic material in medical devices due to its affordability, versatility, and structural reliability. NPAs made from PVC are typically semi-rigid yet flexible enough to follow the nasal passage during insertion.  Advantages Cost-Effective: PVC Nasopharyngeal Airways NPAs are less expensive to produce, making them attractive for hospitals with high patient turnover or limited budgets. Shape Retention: The semi-rigid structure holds its form during insertion, aiding accuracy and reducing the risk of kinking. Pre-Lubrication Options: Many PVC Nasopharyngeal Airways NPAs are available in pre-lubricated variants, which streamline emergency use. Limitations Stiffness: Some patients may experience more discomfort during insertion compared to softer materials. Temperature Sensitivity: PVC can become less flexible in cold environments, a potential issue in prehospital or military settings. Latex-Like Feel: Though PVC Nasopharyngeal Airways NPAs are generally latex-free, their rigidity can occasionally be mistaken for older latex-based devices.   Silicone Nasopharyngeal Airways  Characteristics   Medical-grade silicone is known for its softness, biocompatibility, and long-term resilience. In airway devices, silicone provides a smooth surface that adapts more comfortably to patient anatomy.  Advantages  Enhanced Comfort: The softness of silicone minimizes mucosal trauma, reducing the risk of epistaxis. Biocompatibility: Silicone is hypoallergenic and latex-free, suitable for patients with material sensitivities. Adjustable Designs: Many Silicone Nasopharyngeal Airways NPAs incorporate sliding flanges or adjustable plates, allowing secure fixation and preventing over-insertion. Durability: Resistant to temperature fluctuations, silicone NPAs maintain performance in diverse environments. Limitations Higher Cost: Silicone NPAs are generally more expensive, which may impact procurement budgets in high-volume facilities. Softer Structure: While comfortable, very soft devices may be prone to bending or folding during insertion if not handled properly.  Clinical Scenarios: Which to Choose?  Emergency and Prehospital Care: PVC NPAs are advantageous due to their rigidity, affordability, and pre-lubricated options. Paramedics often benefit from their readiness and shape retention in fast-paced scenarios. Operating Rooms and ICUs: Silicone NPAs are preferred for patients requiring extended use, such as during prolonged sedation, because of their superior comfort and lower risk of nasal trauma. Pediatric Patients: Silicone NPAs are often chosen for children due to the delicate nature of pediatric nasal passages and reduced incidence of bleeding. Military and Harsh Environments: Silicone's temperature resilience makes it suitable in extreme climates, whereas PVC may stiffen or become brittle.  Economic and Regulatory Considerations From a hospital management perspective, both cost and compliance influence material choice: PVC NPAs are ideal for single-use, disposable applications, especially in high-volume emergency departments. Silicone NPAs, though more expensive, may be justified in settings where patient comfort, safety, or repeat suctioning is prioritized. Manufacturers like BEVER Medical ensure both PVC and silicone NPAs meet ISO 13485, CE MDR, and FDA standards, offering healthcare institutions confidence in quality and safety. Additionally, options for OEM customization—such as multilingual packaging, private labeling, and diverse size ranges—provide flexibility for distributors and hospitals worldwide.  Conclusion  Both PVC and silicone NPAs serve the same lifesaving purpose, yet their material differences influence clinical outcomes and patient experiences. PVC devices stand out in cost-efficiency and emergency readiness, while silicone devices excel in patient comfort, durability, and specialized use cases. Ultimately, the best choice depends on the clinical setting, patient population, and institutional priorities. Hospitals and emergency teams may even stock both types to cover the full spectrum of scenarios. By understanding these differences, healthcare providers can ensure safer, more effective airway management—and manufacturers like BEVER Medical continue to innovate to meet these diverse needs.

Knowing the importance of medical products, BEVER Medical has been making reliable medical devices since 2008. With a 100,000-class cleanroom and advanced production equipment, we put safety and quality first in every product. When it comes to nasopharyngeal airways (NPAs), BEVER Medical offers designs that are easy to use, patient-friendly, and trusted by healthcare professionals worldwide. If it's the first time for you using NPAs, think of them as a soft, flexible tube inserted through the nose to help keep the airway open. They're often used in emergencies, during anesthesia, or for patients who need airway support but can't tolerate an oropharyngeal airway. In this article, we will share with you the top 3 NPAs    What Is a Nasopharyngeal Airway? A nasopharyngeal airway is a simple but lifesaving device. It's made from medical-grade materials and is designed to create a clear channel for airflow through the nasal passage. Unlike rigid devices, NPAs are more comfortable for patients, especially those with a gag reflex. Explore all nasopharyngeal airway options here. NPAs are widely used in: Emergency medical care Military field use Pre-hospital and hospital settings Patient transport Army Nasopharyngeal Airway The army nasopharyngeal airway is designed for tough environments, especially military and pre-hospital emergency care. Built for reliability, this device ensures patients can breathe even in the most demanding situations. Check out our Army Nasopharyngeal Airway here. Key Features: Flexible PVC construction for comfort and durability. Beveled tip for smooth insertion. Available in multiple sizes to fit different patients. Widely included in military first aid kits. If you're handling field emergencies, you know time matters. The Army NPA is simple, effective, and trusted by medics around the world. Pro tip: Always choose the right size to avoid trauma and ensure proper airflow. Pre-Lubricated Nasal Airway Sometimes you need speed and efficiency. The pre-lubricated nasal airway makes insertion easier by including a sealed packet of lubricant, so you don't have to reach for extra supplies. View Pre-Lubricated Nasal Airway details here. Key Benefits: Comes with an attached lubricant packet for fast application. Designed to stay secure, even during rough patient transport. Compatible with human anatomy, reducing discomfort. Recommended for semi-conscious or unconscious patients with a gag reflex. Sizes available from 14Fr to 38Fr. If you're a first responder or emergency care provider, this product saves you valuable seconds and gives you peace of mind. PVC Adjustable Nasopharyngeal Airway For patients who need longer or repeated airway support, the PVC adjustable nasopharyngeal airway is a game-changer. It combines comfort with customization. See the Adjustable PVC Nasopharyngeal Airway here. Why It Stands Out: Adjustable fit: A movable disc helps you position it perfectly for different patients. Reduced trauma: Rounded, enlarged tip minimizes injury risk. Ergonomic design: Smooth insertion and removal. Safe material: Made from medical-grade silicone, latex-free, and biocompatible. This airway is especially useful for hospitals and clinics where patient comfort and repeated use are priorities.  Top 3 NPAs Comparing Chart Here's a quick look at how these three airways compare: Feature Army NPA Pre-Lubricated NPA Adjustable PVC NPA Best Use Military/field Emergency/transport Clinical/long-term Lubrication Requires jelly Comes with packet Needs jelly Comfort Standard High Very high Sizes Multiple 14Fr–38Fr Multiple Why BEVER Medical NPAs Are Trusted Worldwide At Bever Medical, we know that when you're providing care, you need devices you can trust. That's why we: Use medical-grade materials only. Maintain strict ISO standards. Focus on both patient comfort and caregiver convenience. Whether you're in the field, in the ER, or at the bedside, our nasopharyngeal airways deliver dependable performance.  FAQs About Nasopharyngeal Airways What is the difference between Army and Pre-Lubricated Nasopharyngeal Airways?The Army version is rugged and built for field use, while the Pre-Lubricated version comes with a ready-to-use lubricant packet for quicker application.  Is a PVC Adjustable Nasopharyngeal Airway better for long-term use?Yes, its adjustable disc and smooth tip make it more comfortable for repeated or prolonged use.  Can nasopharyngeal airways be used on conscious patients?Yes, especially in semi-conscious patients with an intact gag reflex, NPAs are often better tolerated than oropharyngeal airways.  What sizes of nasopharyngeal airways should I keep on hand?It's best to stock multiple sizes (14Fr to 38Fr) to accommodate different patient anatomies.  Why should I choose Bever Medical for airway products?We combine advanced manufacturing, ISO-certified facilities, and a focus on patient comfort to bring you reliable, high-quality devices. Bever Medical provides nasopharyngeal airway solutions for individuals, medical structures, field hospitals, etc. If you're looking for devices designed for safety, comfort, and ease of use, we can be in your consideration. Wherever you provide care, we're here to support you with dependable airway management products.