An animal model for laryngotracheal injuries: an experimental study

Objectives/hypothesis: To establish an animal model for post-intubation laryngotracheal injuries resulting in significant laryngotracheal insult without compromising the survival of the animal for a minimum period of 12 weeks post-extubation. To study the extent of injury based on morphometric and histopathological change seen at 12 weeks post-extubation.

Study design: Randomized block, single-blinded, experimental study.

Methods: Twelve New Zealand white rabbits were used in this study. The rabbits were randomly divided into three groups depending on the duration of intubation (6 hours, 4 hours, and 2 hours, respectively). The technique of intubation was standardized. Post-extubation, these rabbits were humanely sacrificed after observation for 12 weeks or when they developed severe respiratory distress. The larynx and trachea were subjected to gross and histopathological examination.

Results: Histopathological examination and statistical analysis showed significant subglottic injury in all group B rabbits (intubated for 4 hours), and all of them survived for 12 weeks.

Conclusion: In this study, an animal model for inducing and studying laryngotracheal injuries due to endotracheal intubation has been established. This study has the potential applications in research on etiopathogenesis and management of post-intubation laryngotracheal injuries.