Abstract
The gastric acid aspiration syndrome was first described by Mendelson in 1945. The usual clinical features of cyanosis, tachycardia, hypotension and dyspnea are produced when liquid vomitus of less than 2.5 pH is inhaled into the tracheobronchial tree. Treatment usually includes airway control, positive pressure oxygen administration, fluid replacement, steroids and antibiotics. The role of bronchoscopy and tracheobronchial lavage in treatment has never been clearly defined. Sixty dogs were studied using bronchoscopy and normal saline lavage following hydrochloric acid aspiration. Using the parameters of survival, blood gas values, lung weight and pathology, no benefit was demonstrated. Bronchoscopy and lavage are not recommended unless solid particle aspiration occurs.
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