A model of reflex tracheal constriction in the dog

1 A tracheal pouch with its nerve and blood supply intact has been prepared in situ in dogs. 2 Mechanical stimulation of the upper airways in dogs anaesthetized with chloralose induced a consistent increase in pouch pressure which was abolished by bilateral vagal section. 3 The response of the pouch following mechanical stimulation of the airways was abolished by intravenous pentobarbitone, atropine, administered systemically or when present in the pouch, and tetracaine, applied to the stimulus area or when present in the pouch. 4 Salbutamol had no inhibitory effects on the response regardless of its route of administration. 5 These results suggest that the increase in pouch pressure following mechanical stimulation of the upper airways is mediated by a vagal reflex arc. 6 The technique may distinguish between drugs the site of action of which is at the afferent or efferent end of this reflex arc.