Feasibility of the transtracheal approach for the thoracic cavity in a large animal model.
BACKGROUND
The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of a novel transtracheal endoscopic technique for thoracic evaluation and intervention in a large animal model.


METHODS
In 12 animals (6 pigs and 6 dogs) under general anesthesia, a tracheal incision was made on the right lateral wall of the lower trachea and used as an entrance for thoracic evaluation and intervention. Postoperative follow-up included endoscopy at 1 and 2 weeks after surgery and necropsy at 2 weeks after surgery.


RESULTS
Transtracheal opening and thoracic exploration were achieved in all animals. Four animals (3 pigs and 1 dog) died as a result of complications from the procedure. At the follow-up endoscopy, healing at the tracheal opening region was noted in seven animals.


CONCLUSIONS
The transtracheal approach to the thoracic cavity is technically feasible in both porcine and canine models (4/12 animals died). The canine model is perhaps more suitable than the porcine model for the study of the transtracheal approach to the thoracic cavity.
Laboratory Animal Center, Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linko, Chang Gung University, No. 5, Fu-Shing Street, Guei-Shan Shiang, 333, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC.
Yun-Hen
YH
Liu
Yen
Y
Chu
Chien-Ying
CY
Liu
Hung-Pin
HP
Liu
Yi-Cheng
YC
Wu
Ming-Ju
MJ
Hsieh
Hui-Ping
HP
Liu
D000818:Animals; D015505:Chest Tubes; D004285:Dogs; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D023421:Models, Animal; D057605:Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery / Q000401:mortality; D034421:Sus scrofa; D035423:Thoracic Cavity / Q000601:surgery*; D014140:Tracheotomy