Comparison of the Effects of Endotracheal Intubation of Wistar Rats Using the Conventional Technique vs. a New Modified Technique Using a 3D Mouth-Piece

Abstract

Aims

Endotracheal intubation in rats is challenging due to the difficult anatomical characteristics of the airway. The success rate at first attempt is low and airway damage is a common complication. We aimed to compare and evaluate the conventional intubation method with a modified procedure using an inclined plate, headlamp (700-Lumen), and 3D mouth-piece designed with a 20° curvature. Both techniques were conducted by laboratory personnel with and without previous experience in airway management of laboratory rats.

Material and methods

In this study, we used 36 Wistar rats of both genders. Three groups of laboratory personnel (anesthesiologists, medical students, and laboratory technicians) performed both endotracheal intubation techniques, i.e., blind intubation at supine position and endotracheal intubation at 70° supine position with a 3D mouth-piece and direct illumination of the glottis.

Results

The modified technique had a significantly higher success rate and shorter procedure duration. Moreover, there was no significant difference in the procedure duration between personnel with and without previous training in airway management.

Conclusion

Previous knowledge and experience in airway management are required when performing conventional endotracheal intubation; moreover, its success rate is low. Contrastingly, using proper instruments and the 3D mouth-piece facilitated easier and quicker airway management regardless of previous experience.

Keywords:

• Mouth-piece design
• rodent intubation
• rodent anesthesia
• intubation technique

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This study was conducted as part of the program of Master and Doctorate in Production Sciences and Animal Health of the Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics Faculty (FMVZ). UNAM with support from CONACYT (#165507), México City.