Management of endotracheal tube breakage during extubation in a lion (Panthera leo)

Abstract

Endotracheal tube breakage during extubation is a rare complication previously reported in domestic animals, but not in zoo animals. A 9‐year‐old, male lion was anaesthetised to investigate lethargy and inappetence. Following anaesthesia, the lion was transported to its night quarter, a dedicated enclosed area for recovery. The lion was secured within the night quarter, with all personnel separated from the lion by a metal mesh fence. The lion was positioned adjacent to the fence, allowing distant monitoring and access for extubation through the fence. The silicone endotracheal tube broke during extubation. No immediate signs of airway obstruction were observed. The lion was re‐anaesthetised within the night quarter with intramuscular medetomidine and tiletamine/zolazepam administered using a pole syringe. Radiographs confirmed the presence of the broken distal endotracheal tube in the oesophagus, which was then manually retrieved with a mouth gag in place. The lion subsequently recovered with no complications.