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MIS: Home > Exotics > Small mammal > Thoracoscopy
Small mammal
Thoracoscopy
Respiratory disease remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in rabbits and rodents but a thoracoscopic examination of the lungs can permit the evaluation and collection of biopsies without the need for a major thoracotomy.
A paraxiphoid approach is preferred, but exact entry site will depend upon the suspected nature and position of lesions.
Breach of the pleural membrane causes collapse of the lung unless extensive adhesions are present.
Intubation and positive pressure ventilation are essential. The scope can then be inserted and examination of the pleural membrane, lung lobes and heart can be undertaken.
In most cases such techniques are utilised for undertaking biopsies of masses identified on radiography. Following removal of the scope, as much air as possible is evacuated from the thorax and the animal is held at maximum inspiration while the trocar is removed.
Once the skin incision has returned to its normal position (distal to the thoracotomy entry point) air rarely re-enters the thorax.
Close observation is required during the immediate post-operative period, and if there is any suggestion of a deteriorating pneumothorax then fine needle aspiration can be used to remove air, or in exceptional cases a chest drain can be inserted.
Endoscopic examination of the caudal lung of a rabbit with lung consolidation due to bacterial pneumonia.
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