Tracheotomy with tracheostomy tube placement in dogs

Dr. Don Waldron demonstrates tracheotomy and tracheostomy tube placement in a dog. These procedures may be indicated in patients with life-threatening upper airway obstruction, trauma, neoplasia, or functional abnormality (e.g., laryngeal paralysis), or in anticipation of upper airway obstruction or when prolonged ventilatory support is needed. Tracheostomy tube placement also permits delivery of inhalant anesthesia without the need for oral endotracheal intubation in patients that require surgery of the upper airway or oral cavity. Twenty-four-hour intensive care of the tracheostomy tube is required to prevent obstruction with mucus or blood. Dr. Waldron is the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer of the Western Veterinary Conference and teaches and produces hands-on training courses for veterinarians at the Oquendo Center in Las Vegas, Nevada in conjunction with the conference and throughout the year.