Effect of transoral tracheal wash on respiratory mechanics in dogs with respiratory disease.

The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of a transoral tracheal wash (TOTW) on respiratory mechanics in dogs and to describe the use of a critical care ventilator (CCV) to determine respiratory mechanics. Fourteen client-owned dogs with respiratory diseases were enrolled. Respiratory mechanics, including static compliance (C) and static resistance (R), were determined before and after TOTW. Pre- and post-wash results were compared, with a -value of < 0.05 considered significant. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) value of C pre-TOTW was 1.59 ± 0.94 mL/cmHO/kg while the mean ± SD of C post-TOTW was 1.29 ± 0.71 mL/cmHO/kg ( = 0.045). The median R was not significantly different pre- and post-wash. The transoral tracheal wash altered respiratory mechanics, as observed by a reduction in C, presumably due to airway flooding and collapse. While no long-lasting effects were noted in these clinical patients, this effect should be considered when performing TOTW on dogs with respiratory diseases. Respiratory mechanics testing using a CCV was feasible and may be a useful clinical testing approach.