Diamanti G. DVM, Intern, Unit of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece | Kourmpeti S. DVM, MSc Student, Unit of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece | Zapridis V. DVM, Resident of ECVAA, Unit of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece | Sarpekidou I. DVM, PhD Candidate, Unit of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece | Mavropoulou E. DVM, Intern, Laboratory of Diagnostic Imaging, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece | Kazakos G. DVM, PhD, Professor of Small Αnimal Surgery and Anesthesiology - Critical care, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
Introduction
Although endobronchial intubation is required in certain surgical techniques, in the present study a case of a brachycephalic dog, where the right main bronchus was accidentally intubated during anesthesia is reported.
Clinical case
A 4 year-old pomeranian female neutered dog, was referred for surgery. Dexmedetomidine and tramadol were administered for premedication. Anesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with isoflurane in oxygen. During surgical preparation oxygen saturation decreased to 92% (normal value on 100% oxygen > 96%), tachypnea and borderline hypocapnia were observed. Decision was taken to re-take a chest X-ray.
Results
In lateral chest radiographs the tube appeared to extend beyond the trachea bifurcation, into a main bronchus. After tracheal tube was drawn back, dorsoventral radiograph was taken, and the left lung was congestive with areas of atelectasis and edema. Surgery was postponed and the dog was given supplemental oxygen during recovery from anesthesia. Normal thoracic radiographs two days later allowed surgery.
Conclusions
Inadvertent endobrocheal tube placement can cause hypoxia. Therefore, in addition to measuring the diameter of the endotracheal tube and proper inflation of the cuff, attention should be paid to verify the right position of the endotracheal tube into tracheal lumen.
