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==Introduction==

==Introduction==

Respiratory disease is one of the most common problems in veterinary medicine and can be classed in many different ways, including obstructive and restrictive. The respiratory tract is a route of entry for many infectious agents as well as there being anatomical problems, for example ''brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome'' seen in brachycephalic breeds. Respiratory disease poses many issues for an anaesthestist from intubation issues in cases of upper airway obstructive disease to ventilation perfusion mismatch and respiratory depression caused by some of the agents used.

Respiratory disease is one of the most common problems in veterinary medicine and can be classed in many different ways, including obstructive and restrictive. The respiratory tract is a route of entry for many infectious agents as well as there being anatomical problems, for example ''brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome'' seen in brachycephalic breeds. Respiratory disease poses many issues for an anaesthestist from intubation issues in cases of upper airway obstructive disease to ventilation perfusion mismatch and respiratory depression caused by some of the agents used.

*Laryngospasm

*Laryngospasm

''Clinical signs'' seen in these patients can include stridor, dyspnoea, and increased effort, but in some patients, depending on the severity and disease present, no clinical signs may be seen.

''Clinical signs'' seen in these patients can include stridor, dyspnoea, and increased effort, but in some patients, depending on the severity and disease present, no clinical signs may be seen.

 

Upper airway obstruction can sometimes lead to problems intubating a patient, and in some cases it is impossible to intubate a patient meaning that placement of a tracheostomy tube is required. These patients will often require preoxygenation before induction and a calm environment as to not over stress and exacerbate any breathing problems that may be present, for example,  hyperventilation can promote collapse of the upper airway.  

Upper airway obstruction can sometimes lead to problems intubating a patient, and in some cases it is impossible to intubate a patient meaning that placement of a tracheostomy tube is required. These patients will often require preoxygenation before induction and a calm environment as to not over stress and exacerbate any breathing problems that may be present, for example,  hyperventilation can promote collapse of the upper airway.