A method for studying the pharmacodynamic profile of neuromuscular blocking agents on vocal cord movements in anaesthetized cats

Abstract

1 A new in vivo experimental method is described whereby the neuromuscular blocking effects of muscle relaxants can be investigated on the intrinsic laryngeal muscles of anaesthetized cats. The peripheral tibialis anterior muscle preparation is employed in the same animal to compare the blocking effect on both preparations. 2 The intrinsic laryngeal muscles react with different sensitivities to the neuromuscular blocking agents when compared to the tibialis anterior muscle. 3 The neuromuscular response in both muscle preparations is similar with steroidal agents but appeared to be different after suxamethonium or isoquinoline analogues. 4 It is concluded that this preparation may become a useful tool for studying new muscle relaxants developed to facilitate rapid intubation conditions.