Veterinary anaesthesia and analgesia
-
To review the evidence regarding the reversal of neuromuscular block (NMB) in companion animals with emphasis on the development and use of newer agents. ⋯ Residual NMB has been shown to increase morbidity and mortality in humans and needs to be avoided. It can be detected only by adequate neuromuscular monitoring. The proper use of reversal agents avoids residual NMB and recurarization should not occur. Anticholinesterase inhibitors, such as edrophonium and neostigmine have been used to reverse NMB when the need for this has been established. Reversal is influenced by several factors and a number of undesirable side- effects of these drugs have been reported. Sugammadex, a γ-cyclodextrin, which was designed specifically to encapsulate rocuronium, is more rapid in its actions, has fewer side effects and can reverse profound NMB induced by aminosteroidal muscle relaxants.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
The effects of diazepam or midazolam on the dose of propofol required to induce anaesthesia in cats.
Assess effects of benzodiazepine administration on the propofol dose required to induce anaesthesia in healthy cats, investigate differences between midazolam and diazepam, and determine an optimal benzodiazepine dose for co-induction. ⋯ Midazolam (0.2-0.5 mg kg(-1) ) and diazepam (0.3-0.5 mg kg(-1) ) administered IV after 2 mg kg(-1) propofol significantly reduced the propofol dose required for tracheal intubation.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Comparison of three ultrasound guided approaches to the lumbar plexus in dogs: a cadaveric study.
To assess the accuracy of contrast material injection and the dispersion of injectate following ultrasound guided injections at the level of L6 and L7, in canine cadavers. ⋯ An ultrasound-guided lateral paravertebral approach to the LP proved very practical and accurate, with easy visualization of the plexus and associated nerves. To ensure that the ON is covered by injectate, an approach at the level of L7 is recommended. Further studies are necessary to determine if this correlates with clinically effective local anesthesia.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
The cardiopulmonary effects of dexmedetomidine infusions in dogs during isoflurane anesthesia.
To determine the cardiopulmonary changes associated with intravenous (IV) infusions of dexmedetomidine at equipotent isoflurane-dexmedetomidine concentrations compared with isoflurane alone. ⋯ Cardiopulmonary changes associated with LD were within clinically accepted normal ranges whereas HD produced clinically significant changes. The LD may be useful as an anesthetic adjunct in healthy dogs.