Targeted fibre-optical intrabronchial lipopolysaccharide administration in pigs – a methodical refinement for improved accuracy in respiratory research

To establish and evaluate a standardized method of targeted, intrabronchial drug delivery in pigs.Randomized controlled trial.A total of 16 German Landrace pigs (Sus scrofa), age range 12‒16 weeks, and weighing 28‒35 kg.The animals were anaesthetized, intubated, and instrumented with extended cardiovascular monitoring. Lung injury was induced by administering via a flexible fibre-optic endoscope using 100 mL saline solution containing either 20 mg of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (E. coli LPS) (n = 8) or no additive (sham, n = 8) into the two distal mainstem bronchi. The animals were monitored for 8 hours and arterial oxygenation, inspiratory pressure and arterial blood pressure were …