Effect of combined staphylectomy and laryngotomy on upper airway mechanics in clinically normal horses
O'Rielly, J.L.; Beard, W.L.; Renn, T.N.; Padden, A.J.; Hinchcliff, K.W.
American Journal of Veterinary Research 58(9): 1018-1021
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9645 PMID: 9285008 Document Number: 470639
Objective-To investigate the effect of combined staphylectomy and laryngotomy on upper airway mechanics in clinically normal horses running on a treadmill. Animals-6 Standardbreds. Procedure-Upper airway mechanics were measured with horses trotting or pacing on a treadmill 1 at 5, 8, and 10 m/s before and 6 weeks after combined staphylectomy and laryngotomy. Pharyngeal and tracheal inspiratory and expiratory pressure were measured by use of transnasal tracheal and pharyngeal side hole catheters connected to differential pressure transducers. A pneumotachograph mounted on the rostral end of an airtight face mask was used to measure airflow. Results-Upper airway and translaryngeal inspiratory impedances were higher, respiratory rate was decreased, and inspiratory time was longer (P lt 0.05) at all speeds after staphylectomy and laryngotomy. Conclusion-Combined staphylectomy and laryngotomy significantly affects upper airway mechanics in clinically normal horses. Clinical Relevance-Because combined staphylectomy and laryngotomy exerts a potentially adverse effect on upper airway mechanics in clinically normal horses, the procedure should only be performed when it is clearly indicated.