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.
Liu
Yun-Hen
YH
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.
Chu
Yen
Y
Liu
Chien-Ying
CY
Liu
Hung-Pin
HP
Wu
Yi-Cheng
YC
Hsieh
Ming-Ju
MJ
Liu
Hui-Ping
HP
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