Name
Laryngeal paralysis-like arytenoid dysfunction in two pet rabbits following endotracheal intubation
Speakers
Description
The objective of this report is to describe computed tomographic and endoscopic findings and clinical management of two cases of laryngeal dysfunction in pet rabbits causing laryngeal paralysis-like clinical signs. A two-year-old male neutered lion head cross who presented for a two-month history of stridor following a bilateral maxillary and mandibular incisor extraction and orchiectomy. CT revealed laryngeal narrowing and laryngoscopy showed right laryngeal dysfunction. Based on the severity of clinical signs and concern for complete upper airway obstruction, the owner elected unilateral arytenoid lateralization. The patient arrested shortly after induction and necropsy revealed granulomatous inflammation of the right arytenoid consistent with arytenoid chondritis. A six-year-old male neutered mixed breed rabbit who had a history of increased upper airway noise since anesthesia for a forelimb amputation. This patient was presented for evaluation as the intensity of the upper airway noise, especially while eating, had intensified in the past few months. CT revealed thickening of the right arytenoid and laryngoscopy confirmed this finding and also showed increased mucus production and absent unilateral arytenoid abduction on inspiration. This patient is currently being medically managed to decrease the inflammation associated with increased turbulent air flow. History of intubation should be considered in any rabbit presenting with increased upper respiratory noise consistent with stridor. Care should be taken to ensure smooth atraumatic intubation and minimize tube manipulation once intubated.
Session Type
Lecture (25 Min)