Tracheal Intubation in Exotic Companion Mammals

Abstract

Tracheal intubation is a mainstay of anesthesia and critical care in human and traditional pet species patients, and is being used with increasing frequency in exotic patients as well. Because laboratory experimental designs often require inhalant anesthesia, respiratory support, and delivery of drugs via the trachea, intubation is practiced and reported in laboratory animal literature in a variety of exotic pet species, including rats and other rodents. Veterinary practitioners can use a number of these tracheal intubation techniques for patients in private practice.

Key words: intubation, exotic mammal, blind intubation, nasotracheal intubation, nasal intubation, tracheostomy