Video Laryngoscopic Oral Intubation in Rats - A Simple and Effective Method.

Video Laryngoscopic Oral Intubation in Rats - A Simple and Effective Method. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol. 2020 Apr 01;: Authors: Balzer C, Cleveland WJ, Jinka TR, Riess ML Abstract Endotracheal intubation is a vital component of many rat in vivo experiments to secure the airway and allow controlled ventilation. Even in the hands of experienced researchers, however, the procedure remains technically challenging. The safest and most reliable way for human intubation is by video laryngoscopy. Previous attempts to apply this technique in rodents have been complicated and expensive. We hereby describe a novel, non-invasive method to safely intubate rats orally by video laryngoscopy, thus avoiding the need for a surgical tracheostomy. By repurposing a commercially available ear wax removal device, visualization of the rat larynx can be significantly enhanced. Due to its small diameter, integrated illumination, and a powerful camera with adequate focal length, the device has all necessary properties for exploring the upper airway of a rat. After identifying the vocal cords by video laryngoscopy, the insertion of an endotracheal tube (a 14G intravenous catheter) into the trachea under constant visual control is facilitated by using PE50 tubing as a stylet (Seldinger technique). The procedure has been performed more than 60 times in our laboratory; all intubations were successful on the first attempt, and no adverse events were observe...
Source: American Journal of Physiology. Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology - Category: Cytology Authors: Tags: Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol Source Type: research