Management Of Intratracheal Fire During Laser Surgery In Veterinary Medicine
Abstract
An intratracheal fire represents an unusual but nevertheless possible complication during laser surgery in the tracheobronchial system. The incidence of fire in the respiratory tract during laser surgery is stated as being between 0,4% and 1,5 %. A plan should therefore be in place to avoid this catastrophic complication, or, in the event.
Introduction
The use of lasers for surgical procedures has played a major role in modern medicine since approximately 19601. Veterinary medicine also makes standard use of lasers for various organ systems. Several studies have shown the advantages of lasers for peri-anal and rectal surgery2, as well as for onychectomies3 and dental procedures4. Surgical laser operations on birds include endoscopic castration5 and removal of fungal granulomas from the respiratory tract. Lasers are especially advantageous for these procedures because of the minimal amount of trauma and blood loss6.
As in human medicine, a fire in the operating room can lead to fatalities for both patient and physician7,8,9.
Various recommendations have been suggested for avoiding complications while using lasers for medical purposes. In addition to the guidelines proposed by the American National Standards Institute7, other publications have also described safety procedures for surgical laser use10,11. These publications mainly delineate how to avoid general complications12. In case of a fire, an emergency plan must exist for every surgical field using lasers. Simple guidelines have already been described for this specific emergency. However, operations involving the respiratory tract are particularly problematic, especially in birds, due to their extensive air sack system. Since these procedures are in the beginning stages not only for veterinary medicine in general, but especially for birds specifically, it is important to emphasize the risks that are already well known from experience in human medicine. In particular, the danger of intra-tracheal fire must be mentioned. If an intra-tracheal/-bronchial fire or explosion cannot be prevented, an emergency plan must be readily available to regain control during this particular complication. Most publications concerning intra-tracheal fire are based on experience from many years of laser use in human medicine. These guidelines can be easily transferred to veterinary medicine.
Discussion
An intratracheal fire represents an unusual but nevertheless possible complication during laser surgery in the tracheobronchial system4,5,6,13. The incidence of fire in the respiratory tract during laser surgery is stated as being between 0,4% and 1,5 % 14. A plan should therefore be in place to avoid this catastrophic complication, or, in the event4,5.
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Complete wrapping of the tube in film or the use of special tubes4,6,10to protect the tube in case of damage caused by laser.
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In the case of fire in the respiratory tract at least two syringes filled with sodium chloride should always be at the ready to extinguish the fire.
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The patient's eyes should be covered by swabs soaked in sodium chloride. Oil - Water based ointments should be avoided as these could be set on fire by the laser beam3.
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In the event of the tube catching fire its immediate removal is necessary. It should therefore, not be unduly secured and be easily accessible for the veterinarian3.
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When undertaking laser surgery in the tracheobronchialsystem depending on the animal a PEEP from +5 to +10 cm H20 should be chosen15. The permanent pressure inside the tube reduces the incidence of inflammation caused by the perforation of the tube5. During a tube explosion the positive pressure in the lung counteracts the flame or the cloud of explosive gases, preventing hot toxic gases from penetrating the lower respiratory tract13.
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The reduction of the inspiratory oxygen concentration to under 30 % clearly reduces the risk of inflammation or explosion in the respiratory tract13,14,16,17.
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The possibility of a sudden tracheotomy during intratracheal laser surgery, in case of fire6.
In the case of fire, and when a total intravenous anesthetic was not administered, the supply of all anesthetic gases, including oxygen, should be cut off immediately and the tube disconnected. Highly dosed corticosteroids are recommended after the fire has been extinguished and 100 % oxygen, given by mask, should be administered12.
The above points can help make laser surgery in the tracheobronchialsystem safer and also control possible complications more easily.
