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Updated: May 10, 2026
A Swine Model of Neonatal Asphyxia
Published on: October 11, 2011
Experimental model of atelectasis in newborn piglets
Talitha Comaru1, Humberto Holmer Fiori, Renato Machado Fiori
1Postgraduate Program in Medicine-Pediatrics and Child Health.
Background:
There are few studies using animal models in chest physical therapy. However, there are no models to assess these effects in newborns. This study aimed to develop a model of obstructive atelectasis induced by artificial mucus injection in the lungs of newborn piglets, for the study of neonatal physiotherapy.
Methods:
Thirteen newborn piglets received artificial mucus injection via the endotracheal tube. X-rays and blood gas analysis confirmed the atelectasis.
Results:
The model showed consistent results between oxygenation parameters and radiological findings. Ten (76.9%) of the 13 piglets responded to the intervention. This did not significantly differ from the expected percentage of 50% by the binomial test (95% CI 46.2-95%, P = .09).
Conclusions:
Our model of atelectasis in newborn piglets is both feasible and appropriate to evaluate the impact of physical therapies on atelectasis in newborns.
