An Experimental Model for the Study of Meconium Aspiration of the Newborn

Abstract

Experiments leading to the development of a model to study meconium aspiration of the newborn are described. The final model consisted of the undelivered progeny of a hysterotomized pregnant dog under spinal anesthetic. The puppies were subjected to tracheal intubation and meconium injection before clamping of their umbilical cords. This model may be used to provide objective evidence of the value of parenteral steroid administration in instances of meconium aspiration in the newborn.