title: Induction of tracheal stenosis in a rabbit model-endoscopic versus open technique.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate and compare open versus endoscopic methods of inducing tracheal stenosis in the New Zealand white rabbit model.
  
  
  METHODS
  Prospective randomized control, pilot study.
  
  
  METHODS
  Fifteen New Zealand white rabbits were used in the study. Induction of tracheal stenosis was performed through an open incision in 6 rabbits, an endoscopic approach was utilized in 8 rabbits, and 1 rabbit served as the control. The open approach was performed by brushing the tracheal mucosa 10 times through an anterior tracheotomy with a nylon brush. The endoscopic method was achieved using a rigid bronchoscope and at a measured distance below the cricoid cartilage, passing the same nylon brush four times in each of four quadrants. Repeat endoscopies for evaluation of stenosis progression were performed at 2 and 3 weeks on all rabbits.
  
  
  RESULTS
  In the open group, we observed no stenosis with one mortality as a result of gastroenteritis due to antibiotic use. In the endoscopic group, all animals achieved some degree of stenosis by 14 days, with a mean airway narrowing of 43%. The two deaths in the endoscopic group occurred in the immediate postoperative period secondary to laryngeal edema. The endoscopic procedure was 5 minutes in duration.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The endoscopic technique is an effective method of achieving circumferential tracheal stenosis in the rabbit model. Advantages include simple instrumentation, an endoscopic approach, potential for decreased costs, and more reliable results.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery , Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA. mattsteehler@yahoo.com
authors.forename: Matthew K
authors.initials: MK
authors.lastname: Steehler
authors.forename: Hosai N
authors.initials: HN
authors.lastname: Hesham
authors.forename: Benjamin J
authors.initials: BJ
authors.lastname: Wycherly
authors.forename: Kevin M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Burke
authors.forename: Sonya
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Malekzadeh
mesh_terms: D056151:Airway Remodeling / Q000502:physiology*; D000818:Animals; D001999:Bronchoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011817:Rabbits; D014135:Tracheal Stenosis / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D014140:Tracheotomy / Q000379:methods*