Question

Endotracheal intubation of the horse is usually performed:

a) With the horse standing
b) With the horse lying on its back
c) Using local anesthesia only
d) Using a laryngeal mask

Answer 1

Endotracheal intubation in horses is usually performed with the horse standing and is essential for maintaining an open airway during general anesthesia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question relates to the best practice for performing endotracheal intubation in horses. This procedure is typically performed with the horse in a standing position. Endotracheal intubation involves placing a tube into the trachea to maintain an open airway to the lungs and seal off the airway from the oropharynx, ensuring that during general anesthesia, when muscles necessary for breathing and moving the tongue may not function properly, the airway remains clear.

General anesthesia can cause the tongue to block the airway or impair respiratory muscles, which can lead to complications without intubation. The procedure safeguards against these risks by providing a direct air pathway to the lungs. After surgery, as the anesthetic gas mixture is changed and the muscles of respiration begin to function again, the tube is removed. This process takes time, and patients typically experience a sore or scratchy throat afterward.