Evaluation of the time to desensitization of the larynx of cats following topical lidocaine application.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to evaluate the time to decreased reactivity of the arytenoid cartilages in cats after application of topical lidocaine.

METHODS

One hundred and ten mixed-breed cats were randomly assigned to one of five groups based on the time between application of lidocaine and stimulation of the larynx: 5 (T5), 15 (T15), 30 (T30), 45 (T45) or 60 (T60) s. Cats were premedicated with dexmedetomidine, ketamine and buprenorphine. Anesthesia was induced with propofol to effect. Lidocaine 2% (2 mg/kg) was applied topically to the vocal cords using a catheter attached to a syringe under direct laryngoscopy. After lidocaine application, the designated time elapsed and the vocal cords were stimulated with the patient end of an endotracheal tube. Severity of reaction was reported as none, mild, moderate or severe. All cats were intubated after the reactivity score was recorded. Anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane and 100% oxygen while cats were spayed or castrated. Cats were monitored in recovery for signs of respiratory complications and pain.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference in overall reactivity score between T5 and T45 ( = 0.0038). Also, there was a significant difference in the number of cats with no reaction compared with cats with any reaction between T5 and T30 ( = 0.03), as well as between T5 and T45 ( = 0.0028). No cat had a severe reactivity score at T45 or T60. All cats were successfully intubated. There were no complications during intubation, maintenance of anesthesia or recovery.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

As the lowest overall reactivity score occurred at T45, it is recommended to wait at least 45 s after application of topical lidocaine before attempting tracheal intubation.