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New Flecknell Laryngoscope Solves A Small Animal Problem

Author: Alstoe Animal Health
Posted: Tuesday 21st April, 2009. 00:00:00

A novel solution to a problem vets encounter when using a conventional, usually human health, laryngoscope on small animals has been devised by Prof Paul Flecknell of Newcastle University in collaboration with Alstoe Animal Health.

Called the FlecknellTM , this small animal laryngoscope uses a specially designed streamline, slimmed down blade to maximise the view of the larynx, particularly with rabbits in mind. This new design also greatly reduces the risk of damage to an animal’s gums or pharynx as the blade is inserted.

“Many practitioners have complained that existing blades were not suitable for small animal work and they were not happy with using a blind technique, as they really wanted to see the larynx and intubate under direct vision.” Explained Prof Flecknell, MA, VetMB, PhD, DECLAM, DLAS, DECVA, (Hon) DACLAM, (Hon) FRCVS. “So, over several years of development, we worked through prototypes and changed both the shape of the blade and the type and position of the light source. As well as trying the prototypes ourselves, Alstoe carried out trial work with vets in practice, resulting in this final design, which we think is much easier to use than other blades currently on the market.

“We hope this will encourage vets to intubate more rabbits, since this will enable them to be anaesthetised more safely. One of the commonest problems seen is depressed respiration progressing to apnoea, and trying to assist ventilation using a face mask often results only in inflation of the stomach, making matters worse. Once an endotracheal tube is in place, ventilation can be assisted easily if needed.” Prof Flecknell added.

“The Flecknell still requires some practice to master the use of the blade, and so we have produced a DVD and leaflet demonstrating its use,” said Niall McFerran from Alstoe. “The Flecknell blade can be used to intubate a range of small animals, cats, dogs, as well as the original target rabbits.

“We were delighted to have worked with such an eminent specialist as Prof Flecknell and his team on a genuinely vet-led need to help with animal welfare. And this is just the start, as 2009 is going to be the busiest ever year for new product introductions for Alstoe Animal Health.” Concluded Niall.


Prof Flecknell started his career as a clinical veterinarian and is now Professor/Director at the Institute of Neuroscience at the University of Newcastle. His research group aims to develop and improve methods of analgesia and anaesthesia for use in animals. He is the University’s “named veterinary surgeon”.

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