Transtracheal Aspiration of Adults and Foals

Transtracheal aspiration is a diagnostic procedure indicated in cases of cough with fever, a productive cough, evidence of pleural irregularities and fluid with thoracic ultrasound examination, and/or evidence of pulmonary consolidation and/or pleural fluid with thoracic radiography. An aseptic field large enough to permit stabilization of the trachea is necessary. Tracheal puncture occurs in between the tracheal rings, on the midline. Lidocaine should not be injected into the tracheal wall or lumen. It is possible to puncture the deep aspect of the trachea with perpendicular advancement of the cannula/needle. The trachea needs to be well stabilized. Considerable pressure is required to advance the cannula/needle through the trachea. Usually a noticeable "pop" will be felt when entering into the trachea. Thread the semi-rigid catheter approximately two-thirds of the way through the cannula in the foal, and further in the adult. There should be no negative pressure on aspiration if the cannula is within the trachea.