Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 22, 2026
06:58
Endotracheal Intubation in Mice via Direct Laryngoscopy Using an Otoscope
Published on: April 5, 2014
A simple method for confirming correct endotracheal intubation in mice
A Watanabe1, Y Hashimoto, E Ochiai
1Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba-City, Chiba 260-8673, Japan. fewata@faculty.chiba-u.jp
Laboratory Animals
|June 19, 2009
Summary
A simple water-oscillation method confirms endotracheal intubation in mice. This technique uses readily available materials to reliably verify correct catheter placement in the trachea, improving experimental procedures.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Research Techniques
- Physiology
Background:
- Endotracheal intubation is crucial for experimental mouse models.
- The small size of mouse airways makes intubation challenging.
- Verifying proper endotracheal tube placement is often difficult.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel, safe, and reliable method for confirming endotracheal intubation in mice.
- To provide a simple verification technique using commonly available materials.
Main Methods:
- A novel method using an intravenous infusion extension tube was developed.
- One drop of water was placed in the extension tube connected to the endotracheal catheter.
- Correct tracheal placement was indicated by water oscillation synchronized with thoracic movement.
Main Results:
- The water oscillation method reliably confirmed correct endotracheal tube placement.
- The technique is simple, safe, and utilizes routinely available materials.
- Successful verification was achieved in experimental mouse models.
Conclusions:
- This water-oscillation technique offers a practical solution for verifying endotracheal intubation in mice.
- The method enhances the reliability of airway access in animal research.
- It is a valuable tool for researchers working with experimental mouse models.
