Simplified rat intubation using a new oropharyngeal intubation wedge

Our new oropharyngeal intubation wedge made from a plastic 3-ml syringe has been used successfully for the expansion of the oropharyngeal cavity and v isualization of vocal cords for endotracheal intubation in the rat. All the animals we used tolerated the intubation and ventilation procedures in a s eries of experiments. After the proper setting of the respirator, vital sig ns were maintained within normal range. The postmortem examination and meas urements in the upper airway confirmed that the endotracheal tube was prope rly sited and also demonstrated the precise size of the device that should be used. The main advantages of this method include low cost, simplicity, a nd reliability. Furthermore, because no expensive, elaborate, difficult-to- operate, or hard-to-get special equipment is needed, this technique can be used in every laboratory.