A blind insertion airway device in dogs as an alternative to traditional endotracheal intubation

•A blind insertion airway device provides adequate ventilation for medium to giant breed dogs.•It is not a suitable replacement for traditional endotracheal intubation.•The device could be considered for use in emergency situations.•The blind insertion airway device may be used when traditional endotracheal intubation is not feasible.

Endotracheal intubation is the standard of care to establish a secure airway; however, laryngeal airway management systems are increasingly being used in human patients for elective surgical procedures and in emergency settings. In this study, a double lumen, blind insertion airway device (BIAD) was placed in the esophagus of dogs and evaluated for its ability to ventilate the lungs. Initially, 10 euthanazed dogs were evaluated, followed by a group of 15 mixed breed dogs that were undergoing elective spay or neuter procedures, and a group of 10 healthy dogs. Post-procedure evaluation included visual examination with a laryngoscope to inspect for signs of inflammation or mucosal damage. The device provided adequate ventilation in all subjects; the dogs were under anesthesia or heavily sedated for 10 min to 2 h and recovered uneventfully. No evidence of esophagitis, aspiration pneumonia, tracheitis, subcutaneous emphysema or esophageal laceration was observed. In conclusion, the use of double lumen airway devices warrants further study as an alternative airway management system in dogs.