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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
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Endotracheal Intubation in Mice via Direct Laryngoscopy Using an Otoscope
Published on: April 5, 2014
Microscopic wire guide-based orotracheal mouse intubation: description, evaluation and comparison with
1Biochemical Pharmacology, Faculty of Biology, University of Konstanz, Germany. hamacher@greenmail.ch
Laboratory Animals
|April 26, 2008
Summary
We developed a new microscopic endotracheal intubation technique for mice using a wire guide. This method offers a >95% success rate for first attempts, improving airway access in mouse research.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Research Methodology
Background:
- Airway access is crucial for many experimental animal models, particularly mice.
- Mice present anatomical challenges for intubation due to their small size and narrow glottic opening.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a reliable and minimally invasive microscopic endotracheal intubation technique for mice.
- To improve the success rate and safety of airway management in mouse models.
Main Methods:
- A microscopic endotracheal intubation method utilizing a wire guide was developed for halothane-anesthetized mice.
- Mice were positioned vertically, with the neck slightly stretched for optimal laryngeal visualization.
- A fine wire guide was advanced into the trachea, followed by a catheter over the guide.
Main Results:
- The technique achieved a >95% success rate on the first intubation attempt in 41 mice (21-38 g).
- The certainty of the judgment procedure was 100%.
- Success rates were superior compared to a transillumination method.
Conclusions:
- This microscopic, wire-guided endotracheal intubation is a safe and effective method for mouse airway management.
- The technique is less invasive than tracheostomy and suitable for controlled ventilation and pulmonary substance application.
