Which type of device is used to induce general anesthesia in small or difficult-to-handle patients?

The use of an anesthetic chamber is especially beneficial for small or difficult-to-handle patients, such as certain species of rodents or cats that may be stressed or aggressive when approached directly with other methods. An anesthetic chamber allows for a more gradual and controlled exposure to the anesthetic gases, facilitating inhalation anesthesia in a non-invasive manner. This method can reduce the stress and potential risks associated with using masks or intubation in patients that may not cooperate.

An anesthetic mask, while also a non-invasive method, may not be as effective for inducing anesthesia in patients that struggle or move excessively. The endotracheal tube is primarily used for maintaining anesthesia rather than for induction and requires the patient to be sufficiently sedated or anesthetized beforehand. A supraglottic airway device also serves to maintain an open airway but typically requires some level of sedation to be placed effectively.

In summary, the anesthetic chamber is suitable for facilitating a smooth induction of anesthesia in small or difficult cases, allowing these processes to occur in a safe and controlled environment, minimizing stress and risk.