Wound inflammation post-orchiectomy affects the social dynamic of Nelore bulls.

BACKGROUND: Confinement of cattle imposes spatial restrictions and predisposes to aversive social encounters that can lead to contusions, wounds, pain, stress, fright, and reduced productivity. Although endogenous testosterone concentrations are linked to agonistic dominance behaviors in males, it is unknown whether decreased blood testosterone concentrations after castration alter social hierarchy rank in Nelore bulls. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the impact of the surgical would inflammation post-orchiectomy on social dynamics in a group of Nelore bulls (Bos indicus). Fourteen Nelore (Bos indicus) bulls were castrated and assessed pre- and post-surgically. Parameters evaluated were agonistic (mounting, headbutting, and fighting) and affiliative (head-play) behavior, plasma testosterone concentrations, average daily weight gain (ADG), and a score for severity of post-surgical infection. Exploratory statistics included social network analysis (SNA), hierarchy rank delta (Δ), and principal component analysis (PCA). Furthermore, statistical inferences included the Wilcoxon test, multiple logistic regression models, and Spearman's correlation. RESULTS: The social dynamic of Nelore bulls was modified after castration based on the findings of the SNA and the PCA. The moderate correlation between the postoperative inflammation level with the Δ, and the significant effect of this level in the logistic model post-castration were partially attributed to effects of pain on social relations. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest the severity of post-surgical inflammation, which has an association with pain intensity, was closely associated with changes in the social hierarchy.

Reliability and Validity of UNESP-Botucatu Cattle Pain Scale and Cow Pain Scale in Bos taurus and Bos indicus Bulls to Assess Postoperative Pain of Surgical Orchiectomy.

Pain assessment guides decision-making in pain management and improves animal welfare. We aimed to investigate the reliability and validity of the UNESP-Botucatu cattle pain scale (UCAPS) and the cow pain scale (CPS) for postoperative pain assessment in Bos taurus (Angus) and Bos indicus (Nelore) bulls after castration. METHODS: Ten Nelore and nine Angus bulls were anaesthetised with xylazine-ketamine-diazepam-isoflurane-flunixin meglumine. Three-minute videos were recorded at -48 h, preoperative, after surgery, after rescue analgesia and at 24 h. Two evaluators assessed 95 randomised videos twice one month apart. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the pain scores between breeds. Intra and inter-rater reliability varied from good (>0.70) to very good (>0.81) for all scales. The criterion validity showed a strong correlation (0.76-0.78) between the numerical rating scale and VAS versus UCAPS and CPS, and between UCAPS and CPS (0.76). The UCAPS and CPS were responsive; all items and total scores increased after surgery. Both scales were specific (81-85%) and sensitive (82-87%). The cut-off point for rescue analgesia was >4 for UCAPS and >3 for CPS. CONCLUSIONS: The UCAPS and CPS are valid and reliable to assess postoperative pain in Bos taurus and Bos indicus bulls.

Clinical Application of the Fluid Challenge Approach in Goal-Directed Fluid Therapy: What Can We Learn From Human Studies?

Resuscitative fluid therapy aims to increase stroke volume (SV) and cardiac output (CO) and restore/improve tissue oxygen delivery in patients with circulatory failure. In individualized goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT), fluids are titrated based on the assessment of responsiveness status (i.e., the ability of an individual to increase SV and CO in response to volume expansion). Fluid administration may increase venous return, SV and CO, but these effects may not be predictable in the clinical setting. The fluid challenge (FC) approach, which consists on the intravenous administration of small aliquots of fluids, over a relatively short period of time, to test if a patient has a preload reserve (i.e., the relative position on the Frank-Starling curve), has been used to guide fluid administration in critically ill humans. In responders to volume expansion (defined as individuals where SV or CO increases ≥10-15% from pre FC values), FC administration is repeated until the individual no longer presents a preload reserve (i.e., until increases in SV or CO are <10-15% from values preceding each FC) or until other signs of shock are resolved (e.g., hypotension). Even with the most recent technological developments, reliable and practical measurement of the response variable (SV or CO changes induced by a FC) has posed a challenge in GDFT. Among the methods used to evaluate fluid responsiveness in the human medical field, measurement of aortic flow velocity time integral by point-of-care echocardiography has been implemented as a surrogate of SV changes induced by a FC and seems a promising non-invasive tool to guide FC administration in animals with signs of circulatory failure. This narrative review discusses the development of GDFT based on the FC approach and the response variables used to assess fluid responsiveness status in humans and animals, aiming to open new perspectives on the application of this concept to the veterinary field.

Comparison between pulse pressure variation and systolic pressure variation measured from a peripheral artery for accurately predicting fluid responsiveness in mechanically ventilated dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To compare pulse pressure variation (PPV) and systolic pressure variation (SPV) measured from a peripheral artery to predict fluid responsiveness in anesthetized healthy dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective study. ANIMALS: A total of 39 dogs (13.8-26.8 kg) anesthetized with isoflurane for elective ovariohysterectomy. METHODS: Ventilation was controlled (tidal volume 12 mL kg-1; 40% inspiratory pause). PPV and SPV were recorded from a dorsal pedal artery catheter using an automated algorithm. A fluid challenge (FC) with lactated Ringer's solution (20 mL kg-1 over 15 minutes) was administered once (21 animals) or twice (18 animals) before surgery. Increases in transpulmonary thermodilution stroke volume index > 15% from values recorded before each FC defined responders to volume expansion. Final fluid responsiveness status was based on the response to single FC or second FC. Predictive ability of PPV and SPV was compared by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and by the range of cut-off values associated with uncertain results (gray zone). RESULTS: All animals after the single FC were responders; all animals administered two FCs were nonresponders after the second FC. The area under the ROC curve (AUROC) of PPV (0.968) did not differ from that of SPV (0.937) (p = 0.45). Best cut-off thresholds to discriminate responders from nonresponders were >11.7% (PPV) and >7.4 mmHg (SPV). The gray zone of PPV and SPV was 8.2-14.6% and 7.0-7.4 mmHg, respectively. The percentage of animals with PPV and SPV values within the gray zone was less for SPV (10.2%) than for PPV (30.8%). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: PPV and SPV obtained from the dorsal pedal artery are useful predictors of fluid responsiveness in dogs. Using an automated algorithm, SPV may more accurately predict fluid responsiveness than PPV, with responders identifiable by PPV > 14.6% and SPV > 7.4 mmHg.

EVALUATION OF A LARYNGEAL MASK AIRWAY AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO OROTRACHEAL INTUBATION FOR MAINTAINING AIRWAY PATENCY DURING INHALANT ANESTHESIA UNDER SPONTANEOUS VENTILATION IN CAPYBARAS (HYDROCHOERUS HYDROCHAERIS).

Orotracheal intubation carries greater difficulty in rodents than in most domestic species. The human laryngeal mask airway (LMA) was compared with an endotracheal tube (ETtube) for maintaining airway patency in anesthetized capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris). Six capybaras (24-52 kg) were remotely darted with intramuscular ketamine, midazolam, and acepromazine on two occasions (≥7-day intervals). After isoflurane mask induction for random placement of an ETtube or a LMA during each episode, anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane in oxygen under spontaneous ventilation for 90-120 min. Computed tomography of the pharynx and larynx was performed in two of six animals and three of six animals with the ETtube and LMA, respectively. End-tidal isoflurane [median (range)] was not significantly different between ETtube [0.6% (0.5-1.5%)] and LMA [0.6% (0.4-0.9%)]. Heart rate [67 ± 11 beats/min (ETtube) and 67 ± 18 beats/min (LMA)], mean arterial pressure [74 ± 13 mm Hg (ETtube) and 74 ± 14 mm Hg (LMA)], arterial CO2 tension [41 ± 2 mm Hg (ETtube) and 43 ± 4 mm Hg (LMA)], and arterial O2 tension [360 ± 59 mm Hg (ETtube) and 360 ± 63 mm Hg (LMA)] were not significantly different between treatment groups. Computed tomography showed gas in the esophagus with the LMA (three of three animals); the fit of the LMA to the larynx was adequate in two of three animals and fair in one of three animals. Recovery from anesthesia was uneventful. The LMA is a feasible alternative to the ETtube for maintaining airway patency during inhalant anesthesia in spontaneously breathing capybaras. However, the LMA may be dislodged during movement of the animal.

Measurement of anesthetic pollution in veterinary operating rooms for small animals: Isoflurane pollution in a university veterinary hospital.

INTRODUCTION: Inhaled anesthetics are used worldwide for anesthesia maintenance both in human and veterinary operating rooms. High concentrations of waste anesthetic gases can lead to health risks for the professionals exposed. Considering that anesthetic pollution in a veterinary surgical center in developing countries is unknown, this study aimed, for the first time, to measure the residual concentration of isoflurane in the air of operating rooms for small animals in a Brazilian university hospital. METHOD: Residual isoflurane concentrations were measured by an infrared analyzer at the following sites: corner opposite to anesthesia machine; breathing zones of the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and patient (animal); and in front of the anesthesia machine at three time points, that is, 5, 30 and 120 minutes after anesthesia induction. RESULTS: Mean residual isoflurane concentrations gradually increased in the corner opposite to anesthesia machine and in the breathing zones of the surgeon and the anesthesiologist (p <  0.05). There was an increase at 30 minutes and 120 minutes when compared to the initial time points in the animal's breathing zone, and in the front of the anesthesia machine (p <  0.05). There was no significant difference at measurement sites regardless of the moment of assessment. CONCLUSION: This study reported high residual isoflurane concentrations in veterinary operating rooms without an exhaust system, which exceeds the limit recommended by an international agency. Based on our findings, there is urgent need to implement exhaust systems to reduce anesthetic pollution and decrease occupational exposure.

Use of aortic flow indexes derived from transthoracic echocardiography to evaluate response to a fluid challenge in anesthetized dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the ability of transthoracic echocardiographic aortic flow measurements to discriminate response to a fluid challenge (FC) in healthy anesthetized dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective experimental study. ANIMALS: A total of 48 isoflurane-anesthetized dogs (14.2-35.0 kg) undergoing elective surgery. METHODS: Fluid responsiveness was evaluated before surgery by FC (lactated Ringer's 10 mL kg-1 intravenously over 5 minutes). Percentage increases in transpulmonary thermodilution stroke volume (ΔSVTPTD) >15% from values recorded before FC defined responders to volume expansion. A group of 24 animals were assigned as nonresponders (ΔSVTPTD ≤15%). When ΔSVTPTD was >15% after the first FC, additional FC were administered until ΔSVTPTD was ≤15%. Final fluid responsiveness status was based on the response to the last FC. Percentage increases after FC in aortic flow indexes [velocity time integral (ΔVTIFC) and maximum acceleration (ΔVmaxFC)] and in mean arterial pressure (ΔMAPFC) were compared with ΔSVTPTD. RESULTS: After one FC, 24 animals were responders. For nonresponders, ΔSVTPTD was ≤15% after one, two and three FCs in eight/24, 15/24 and one/24 animals, respectively. The FC that defined responsiveness increased ΔSVTPTD by 29 (18-53)% in responders and by 8 (-3 to 15)% in nonresponders [mean (range)]. The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC) of ΔVTIFC (0.901) was larger than the AUROCs of ΔVmaxFC (0.774, p = 0.041) and ΔMAPFC (0.519, p < 0.0001). ΔMAPFC did not predict responsiveness (p = 0.826). Best cut-off thresholds for discriminating responders, with respective zones of diagnostic uncertainty (gray zones) were >14.7 (10.8-17.6)% for ΔVTIFC and >8.6 (-0.3 to 14.7)% for ΔVmaxFC. Animals within the gray zone were 17% (ΔVTIFC) and 50% (ΔVmaxFC). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Changes in VTI induced by FC can determine responsiveness with reasonable accuracy in dogs and could play an important role in goal-directed fluid therapy.

Comparison of perioperative analgesia using the infiltration of the surgical site with ropivacaine alone and in combination with meloxicam in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy.

BACKGROUND: Infiltration of the surgical site with local anesthetics combined with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may play an important role in improving perioperative pain control. This prospective, randomized, blinded, controlled clinical trial aimed to evaluate intraoperative isoflurane requirements, postoperative analgesia, and adverse events of infiltration of the surgical site with ropivacaine alone and combined with meloxicam in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Forty-five cats premedicated with acepromazine/meperidine and anesthetized with propofol/isoflurane were randomly distributed into three treatments (n = 15 per group): physiological saline (group S), ropivacaine alone (1 mg/kg, group R) or combined with meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg, group RM) infiltrated at the surgical site (incision line, ovarian pedicles and uterus). End-tidal isoflurane concentration (FE'ISO), recorded at specific time points during surgery, was adjusted to inhibit autonomic responses to surgical stimulation. Pain was assessed using an Interactive Visual Analog Scale (IVAS), UNESP-Botucatu Multidimensional Composite Pain Scale (MCPS), and mechanical nociceptive thresholds (MNT) up to 24 h post-extubation. Rescue analgesia was provided with intramuscular morphine (0.1 mg/kg) when MCPS was ≥6. RESULTS: Area under the curve (AUC) of FE'ISO was significantly lower (P < 0.0001) in the RM (17.8 ± 3.1) compared to S (23.1 ± 2.2) and R groups (22.8 ± 1.1). Hypertension (systolic arterial pressure > 160 mmHg) coinciding with surgical manipulation was observed only in cats treated with S and R (4/15 cats, P = 0.08). The number of cats receiving rescue analgesia (4 cats in the S group and 1 cat in the R and RM groups) did not differ among groups (P = 0.17). The AUC of IVAS, MCPS and MNT did not differ among groups (P = 0.56, 0.64, and 0.18, respectively). Significantly lower IVAS pain scores were recorded at 1 h in the RM compared to the R and S groups (P = 0.021-0.018). There were no significant adverse effects during the study period. CONCLUSIONS: Local infiltration with RM decreased intraoperative isoflurane requirements and resulted in some evidence of improved analgesia during the early postoperative period. Neither R nor RM infiltration appeared to result in long term analgesia in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy.

Addition of magnesium sulfate to intraperitoneal ropivacaine for perioperative analgesia in canine ovariohysterectomy.

Magnesium may be used as an adjunctive analgesic for perioperative pain management because of its antinociceptive properties. This study investigated the analgesic efficacy of intraperitoneal ropivacaine combined with magnesium sulfate in canine ovariohysterectomy. Forty-five dogs sedated with acepromazine/meperidine and anesthetized with propofol/isoflurane were randomly distributed into three treatments, administered intraperitoneally (n = 15 per group): saline solution (group S), 0.25% ropivacaine (3 mg/kg) alone (group R), or in combination with magnesium sulfate (20 mg/kg, group R-Mg). Intravenous fentanyl was given to control cardiovascular responses to surgical stimulation. Postoperative pain was assessed using an Interactive Visual Analog Scale (IVAS), the short form of the Glasgow Composite Pain Scale, and mechanical nociceptive thresholds. Morphine/meloxicam was administered as rescue analgesia. Intraoperatively, the R-Mg group required less fentanyl (p = .02) and exhibited higher incidence of hypotension (systolic arterial pressure <90 mm Hg, p = .006) compared with the S group. Lower IVAS pain scores were recorded during the first hour in the R-Mg group than the other groups (p = .007-.045). Postoperative rescue analgesia did not differ between groups. Intraperitoneal magnesium sulfate administration, in spite of decreasing intraoperative opioid requirements, increased the incidence of hypotension with minimal evidence of postoperative analgesic benefits.

Effects of cuff size and position on the agreement between arterial blood pressure measured by Doppler ultrasound and through a dorsal pedal artery catheter in anesthetized cats.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of cuff size/position on the agreement between arterial blood pressure measured by Doppler ultrasound (ABPDoppler) and dorsal pedal artery catheter measurements of systolic (SAPinvasive) and mean arterial pressure (MAPinvasive) in anesthetized cats. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective study. ANIMALS: A total of eight cats (3.0-3.8 kg) for neutering. METHODS: During isoflurane anesthesia, before surgery, changes in end-tidal isoflurane concentrations and/or administration of dopamine were performed to achieve SAPinvasive within 60-150 mmHg. Cuff sizes 1, 2 and 3 (bladder width: 20, 25 and 35 mm, respectively) were placed on distal third of the antebrachium, above the tarsus and below the tarsus for ABPDoppler measurements. Agreement between ABPDoppler and SAPinvasive or between ABPDoppler and MAPinvasive was compared with reference standards for noninvasive blood pressure devices used in humans and small animals. RESULTS: Mean bias and precision (±standard deviation) between ABPDoppler and SAPinvasive met veterinary standards (≤10 ± 15 mmHg), but not human standards (≤5 ± 8 mmHg), with cuffs 1 and 2 placed on the thoracic limb (7.4 ± 13.9 and -5.8 ± 9.5 mmHg, respectively), and with cuff 2 placed proximal to the tarsus (7.2 ± 12.4 mmHg). Cuff width-to-limb circumference ratios resulting in acceptable agreement between ABPDoppler and SAPinvasive were 0.31 ± 0.04 (cuff 1) and 0.42 ± 0.05 (cuff 2) on the thoracic limb, and 0.43 ± 0.05 (cuff 2) above the tarsus. ABPDoppler showed no acceptable agreement with MAPinvasive by any reference standard. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The agreement between ABPDoppler and SAPinvasive can be optimized by placing the occlusive cuff on the distal third of the antebrachium and above the tarsus. In these locations, cuff width should approach 40% of limb circumference to provide clinically acceptable estimations of SAPinvasive. Doppler ultrasound cannot be used to estimate MAPinvasive in cats.

Comparison of the diagnostic accuracy of dynamic and static preload indexes to predict fluid responsiveness in mechanically ventilated, isoflurane anesthetized dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the diagnostic accuracy of pulse pressure variation (PPV), stroke volume variation from pulse contour analysis (SVVPCA), plethysmographic variability index (PVI), central venous pressure (CVP) and global end-diastolic volume index measured by transpulmonary thermodilution (GEDVITPTD) to predict fluid responsiveness (FR) in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective study. ANIMALS: A group of 40 bitches (13.8-26.8 kg) undergoing ovariohysterectomy. METHODS: Anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane under volume-controlled ventilation (tidal volume 12 mL kg-1; inspiratory pause during 40% of inspiratory time; inspiration:expiration ratio 1:1.5). Transpulmonary thermodilution cardiac output was recorded through a femoral artery catheter. FR was evaluated by a fluid challenge (lactated Ringer's, 20 mL kg-1 over 15 minutes) administered once (n = 21) or twice (n = 18) before surgery. Individuals were responders if stroke volume index measured by transpulmonary thermodilution increased >15% after the last fluid challenge. RESULTS: Of the 39 animals studied, 21 were responders and 18 were nonresponders. Area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC) was 0.976, 0.906, 0.868 and 0.821 for PPV, PVI, CVP and SVVPCA, respectively (p < 0.0001 from AUROC = 0.5). GEDVITPTD failed to predict FR (AUROC: 0.660, p = 0.078). Best cut-off thresholds discriminating responders and nonresponders, with respective zones of diagnostic uncertainty (gray zones) were: PPV >16% (15-16%), PVI >11% (10-13%), SVVPCA >10% (9-18%) and CVP ≤1 mmHg (0-3 mmHg). Percentage of animals within gray zone limits was 13% (PPV), 28% (PVI), 51% (SVVPCA) and 67% (CVP). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: PPV has better diagnostic accuracy to predict FR (conclusive results in nearly 90% of population) than other preload indexes in healthy dogs. When invasive blood pressure is unavailable, PVI will predict FR with reasonable accuracy (conclusive results in approximately 70% of the population). PPV and PVI values above gray zone limits (>16% and >13%, respectively) can reliably predict responders to volume expansion.

Effects of 6% tetrastarch or lactated Ringer's solution on blood coagulation in hemorrhaged dogs.

BACKGROUND: Tetrastarch solution (TS) can impair coagulation but the clinical relevance of this impairment is unclear in veterinary medicine. OBJECTIVE: Compare the effects of volume replacement (VR) with lactated Ringer's solution (LRS) or 6% TS on coagulation in hemorrhaged dogs. ANIMALS: Six healthy English Pointer dogs (19.7-35.3 kg). METHODS: Prospective crossover study. Dogs were anesthetized without hemorrhage and VR (control). Two weeks later, dogs were hemorrhaged under anesthesia on 2 occasions (8-week washout intervals) and randomly received VR with LRS or TS at 3:1 or 1:1 of shed blood, respectively, aiming to decrease the hematocrit to 33%. Rotational thromboelastometry and other coagulation variables were determined before 0.5, 2, and 4 hours after VR during anesthesia and 24 hours after VR (conscious dogs). RESULTS: Buccal mucosal bleeding time did not differ between treatments after VR. Activated partial thromboplastin time increased from controls 4 hours after TS (P = 0.045). Clot formation time (CFT) and alfa-angle increased from controls from 0.5 to 4 hours after LRS (CFT, P ≤ 0.0001-0.02; alpha angle, P = 0.0001-0.02) and from 0.5 to 2 hours after TS (CFT, P = 0.0002-0.01; alpha angle, P = 0.0005-0.02). The maximum clot firmness decreased from controls from 0.5 to 4 hours after LRS (P ≤ 0.0001-0.01) and TS (P ≤ 0.0001-0.04). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Tetrastarch does not impair primary hemostasis and induces transient dilutional coagulopathy that is similar to LRS because, when compared to a 3 times higher volume of LRS in hemorrhaged dogs, it does not cause greater interference on the viscoelastic properties of the coagulum.

Effects of pneumoperitoneum and of an alveolar recruitment maneuver followed by positive end-expiratory pressure on cardiopulmonary function in sheep anesthetized with isoflurane-fentanyl.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of pneumoperitoneum alone or combined with an alveolar recruitment maneuver (ARM) followed by positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) on cardiopulmonary function in sheep. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, crossover study. ANIMALS: A total of nine adult sheep (36-52 kg). METHODS: Sheep were administered three treatments (≥10-day intervals) during isoflurane-fentanyl anesthesia and volume-controlled ventilation (tidal volume: 12 mL kg-1) with oxygen: CONTROL (no intervention); PNEUMO (120 minutes of CO2 pneumoperitoneum); PNEUMOARM/PEEP (PNEUMO protocol with an ARM instituted after 60 minutes of pneumoperitoneum). The ARM (5 cmH2O increases in PEEP of 1 minute duration until 20 cmH2O of PEEP) was followed by 10 cmH2O of PEEP until the end of anesthesia. Cardiopulmonary data were recorded until 30 minutes after abdominal deflation. RESULTS: PaO2 was decreased from 435-462 mmHg (58.0-61.6 kPa) (range of mean values in CONTROL) to 377-397 mmHg (50.3-52.9 kPa) in PNEUMO (p < 0.05). Quasistatic compliance (Cqst, mL cmH2O-1 kg-1) was decreased from 0.85-0.92 in CONTROL to 0.52-0.58 in PNEUMO. PaO2 increased from 383-385 mmHg (51.1-51.3 kPa) in PNEUMO to 429-444 mmHg (57.2-59.2 kPa) in PNEUMOARM/PEEP (p < 0.05) and Cqst increased from 0.52-0.53 in PNEUMO to 0.70-0.74 in PNEUMOARM/PEEP. Abdominal deflation in PNEUMO did not restore PaO2 and Cqst to control values. Cardiac index (L minute-1 m2) decreased from 4.80-4.70 in CONTROL to 3.45-3.74 in PNEUMO and 3.63-3.76 in PNEUMOARM/PEEP. Compared with controls, ARM/PEEP with pneumoperitoneum decreased mean arterial pressure from 81 to 68 mmHg and increased mean pulmonary artery pressure from 10 to 16 mmHg. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Abdominal deflation did not reverse the pulmonary function impairment associated with pneumoperitoneum. The ARM/PEEP improved respiratory compliance and reversed the oxygenation impairment induced by pneumoperitoneum with acceptable hemodynamic changes in healthy sheep.

Comparison of two species-specific oscillometric blood pressure monitors with direct blood pressure measurement in anesthetized cats.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the performance of 2 species-specific oscillometric blood pressure (OBP) monitors (petMAPclassic and petMAPgraphic ) with direct blood pressure measurement in anesthetized cats. DESIGN: Prospective, experimental study. SETTING: Veterinary teaching hospital. ANIMALS: Eight adult cats (3.2-5.5 kg). INTERVENTIONS: During isoflurane anesthesia, OBP cuffs were placed on the thoracic limb and on the base of the tail while invasive blood pressure (IBP) was recorded from a dorsal pedal artery. End-tidal isoflurane concentrations, with or without intravenous dopamine (n = 8), norepinephrine (n = 1), or phenylephrine (n = 1) were adjusted to change invasive mean arterial pressure (MAP) between 40 to 100 mm Hg. Data were analyzed by the Bland-Altman method and 4-quadrant plots. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Mean biases and limits of agreement (LOA: ± 1.96 SD) (mm Hg) recorded between the petMAPclassic (thoracic limb) and IBP for systolic arterial pressure (SAP), diastolic arterial pressure (DAP), and MAP were 4.2 ± 28.5, -6.1 ± 13.2, and -1.9 ± 14.6, respectively; mean biases and LOA (mm Hg) recorded with the tail cuff were 7.2 ± 31.3 (SAP), -6.1 ± 11.6 (DAP), and -1.1 ± 11.7 (MAP). Mean biases and LOA (mm Hg) between petMAPgraphic (thoracic limb) and IBP were 7.7 ± 27.0 (SAP), -4.3 ± 11.5 (DAP), 0.2 ± 13.0 (MAP); values recorded with the tail cuff were 10.9 ± 29.6 (SAP), -4.4 ± 11.7 (DAP), and -0.1 ± 12.1 (MAP). Concordance rates after excluding arterial pressure changes ≤ 5 mm Hg was ≥ 93% for both devices. CONCLUSIONS: Although both OBP monitors provide unacceptable SAP estimations, MAP values derived from both monitors and DAP measured by the petMAPgraphic result in acceptable agreement with the reference method according to the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (mean bias ≤ 5 mm Hg with LOA ≤ ± 16 mm Hg). Both monitors provide acceptable trending ability for SAP, DAP, and MAP.

An Update on Drugs Used for Lumbosacral Epidural Anesthesia and Analgesia in Dogs.

This review aims to report an update on drugs administered into the epidural space for anesthesia and analgesia in dogs, describing their potential advantages and disadvantages in the clinical setting. Databases searched include Pubmed, Google scholar, and CAB abstracts. Benefits of administering local anesthetics, opioids, and alpha2 agonists into the epidural space include the use of lower doses of general anesthetics (anesthetic "sparing" effect), perioperative analgesia, and reduced side effects associated with systemic administration of drugs. However, the potential for cardiorespiratory compromise, neurotoxicity, and other adverse effects should be considered when using the epidural route of administration. When these variables are considered, the epidural technique is useful as a complementary method of anesthesia for preventive and postoperative analgesia and/or as part of a balanced anesthesia technique.

Changes in pulse pressure variation and plethysmographic variability index caused by hypotension-inducing hemorrhage followed by volume replacement in isoflurane-anesthetized dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To compare changes in pulse pressure variation (PPV) and plethysmographic variability index (PVI) induced by hemorrhage followed by volume replacement (VR) in isoflurane-anesthetized dogs. ANIMALS: 7 healthy adult dogs. PROCEDURE: Each dog was anesthetized with isoflurane and mechanically ventilated. End-tidal isoflurane concentration was adjusted to maintain mean arterial pressure (MAP) at 60 to 70 mm Hg before hemorrhage. Controlled hemorrhage was initiated and continued until the MAP decreased to 40 to 50 mm Hg, then autologous blood removed during hemorrhage was retransfused during VR. Various physiologic variables including PPV and PVI were recorded immediately before (baseline) and after controlled hemorrhage and immediately after VR. RESULTS: Mean ± SD PPV and PVI were significantly increased from baseline after hemorrhage (PPV, 20 ± 6%; PVI, 18 ± 4%). After VR, the mean PPV (7 ± 3%) returned to a value similar to baseline, whereas the mean PVI (10 ± 3%) was significantly lower than that at baseline. Cardiac index (CI) and stroke index (SI) were significantly decreased from baseline after hemorrhage (CI, 2.07 ± 0.26 L/min/m(2); SI, 20 ± 3 mL/beat/m(2)) and returned to values similar to baseline after VR (CI, 4.25 ± 0.63 L/min/m(2); SI, 36 ± 6 mL/beat/m(2)). There was a significant positive correlation (r(2) = 0.77) between PPV and PVI after hemorrhage. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results suggested that both PPV and PVI may be useful for identification of dogs that respond to VR with increases in SI and CI (ie, dogs in the preload-dependent limb of the Frank-Starling curve).

Morphine-induced pruritus after epidural administration followed by treatment with naloxone in a cat.

CASE SUMMARY: A young male domestic shorthair cat weighing 1.6 kg was admitted to a veterinary teaching hospital for elective orchiectomy. A lumbosacral epidural injection of preservative-free morphine (0.1 mg/kg) and lidocaine (0.25 ml/kg) was performed under general anesthesia. One hour after extubation, the cat became agitated. Severe licking and biting of the hindlimbs, tail and lumbar area were observed. Pruritus was suspected and likely to be caused by epidural morphine. Acepromazine (0.02 mg/kg IM) was administered but clinical signs did not cease. Naloxone (2 µg/kg IV) was administered and clinical signs resolved within 20 mins. RELEVANCE AND NOVEL INFORMATION: Different therapeutic approaches are available for the treatment of morphine-induced pruritus. This case describes an additional treatment option using opioid antagonism with naloxone.

Adrenomedullin induces pulmonary vasodilation but does not attenuate pulmonary hypertension in a sheep model of acute pulmonary embolism.

AIMS: The pulmonary vasodilation induced by adrenomedullin may be beneficial in the acute pulmonary embolism (APE) setting. This study examined effects of adrenomedullin in sheep with microsphere-induced APE. MAIN METHODS: Twenty four anesthetized, mechanically ventilated sheep were randomly assigned into 3 groups (n=8 per group): animals not subjected to any intervention (Sham), animals with APE induced by microspheres (500 mg, intravenously) treated 30 min later by intravenous physiological saline (Emb group) or intravenous adrenomedullin (50 ng/kg/min) during 30 min (Emb+Adm group). Plasma concentrations of cyclic adenosine (cAMP) and guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) were determined by enzyme immunoassay. KEY FINDINGS: Variables did not change over time in sham animals. In both embolized groups, microsphere injection significantly (P<0.05) increased pulmonary vascular resistance index (PVRI) and mean pulmonary artery pressure (MPAP) from baseline by 181% and 111-142%, respectively (% change in mean values). Adrenomedullin significantly decreased PVRI (18%-25%) and significantly increased cardiac index (22%-25%) from values recorded 30 min after APE (E30), without modifying MPAP. Adrenomedullin decreased mean arterial pressure (18%-24%) and systemic vascular resistance index (32%-40%). Embolization significantly increased arterial-to-end tidal CO2 gradient, alveolar-to-arterial O2 gradient, and pulmonary shunt fraction from baseline, but these variables were unaffected by adrenomedullin. While adrenomedullin significantly increased plasma cAMP, cGMP levels were unaltered. SIGNIFICANCE: Adrenomedullin induces systemic and pulmonary vasodilation, possibly via a cAMP mediated mechanism, without modifying the gas exchange impairment associated with APE. The pulmonary anti-hypertensive effect of adrenomedullin may be offset by increases in cardiac index.

Effects of dipyrone, meloxicam, or the combination on hemostasis in conscious dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of dipyrone, meloxicam, and of the combination of these drugs on hemostasis in dogs. DESIGN: Prospective, blinded, randomized crossover study. SETTING: Research laboratory at a veterinary teaching hospital. ANIMALS: Six adult dogs. INTERVENTIONS: Animals received 4 intravenous treatments with 15-day washout intervals: control (physiological saline, 0.1 mL/kg), meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg), dipyrone (25 mg/kg), and dipyrone-meloxicam (25 and 0.2 mg/kg, respectively). A jugular catheter was placed for drug injection and for collecting samples for whole blood platelet aggregation (WBPA) and thromboelastometry assays at baseline, 1, 2, 3, 5, and 8 hours after treatment administration. The percent change from baseline of lag time and of the area under the curve (AUC) of impedance changes in response to collagen-induced platelet activation were recorded during WBPA. Thromboelastometry-derived parameters included clotting time, clot formation time, alpha-angle, and maximum clot firmness. The buccal mucosal bleeding time was evaluated by a blinded observer at baseline, 1, 3, and 5 hours after treatment injection. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: No significant changes in WBPA and thromboelastometry were recorded in the control treatment. Dipyrone significantly (P < 0.05) increased the lag time for 2 hours and decreased the AUC for 3 hours after injection. Meloxicam did not alter WBPA. Dipyrone-meloxicam significantly increased lag time for 2 hours and decreased the AUC for 5 hours after treatment injection. Experimental treatments did not differ from the control treatment for thromboelastometry and buccal mucosal bleeding time. CONCLUSIONS: While meloxicam does not alter hemostasis by the methods evaluated, dipyrone inhibits platelet aggregation for up to 3 hours. Meloxicam-dipyrone combination causes more prolonged inhibition of platelet function than dipyrone alone. Decreased platelet aggregation induced by dipyrone and dipyrone-meloxicam does not appear to impact the viscoelastic properties of the blood clot nor increase the risk of bleeding in dogs without preexisting hemostatic disorders.

Analgesic and antihyperalgesic effects of dipyrone, meloxicam or a dipyrone-meloxicam combination in bitches undergoing ovariohysterectomy.

The analgesic and antihyperalgesic effects of dipyrone, meloxicam or a dipyrone-meloxicam combination were compared in dogs undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy. In a double-blinded, prospective, randomised design, 40 bitches premedicated with intramuscular pethidine (4 mg/kg) and anaesthetised with isoflurane received one of four intravenous treatments (n = 10 per group) before ovariohysterectomy: control (physiological saline), meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg), dipyrone (25 mg/kg) or dipyrone-meloxicam (25 mg/kg and 0.2 mg/kg, respectively). Glasgow composite measure pain scale (GCMPS) and mechanical nociceptive thresholds (MNT) were assessed before anaesthesia and at 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 24 h postoperatively. Rescue analgesia (0.5 mg/kg morphine) was administered intramuscularly if the GCMPS was ≥3. The GCMPS and MNT did not differ among groups. The frequency of rescue analgesia was significantly (P <0.05) lower in the dipyrone group (30%) than in controls (50%), but there were no significant differences from the control group in bitches treated with meloxicam (70%) or dipyrone-meloxicam (40%). There was a significant reduction in the total number of rescue treatments in the dypyrone (n = 5) and dipyrone-meloxicam (n = 5) groups when compared with the control (n = 17) and meloxicam (n = 19) groups. Meloxicam and dipyrone-meloxicam significantly reduced the percentage of animals exhibiting severe pain during MNT measurements (30% and 0%, respectively) compared with the control group (50%). Dipyrone produced superior analgesia (reduced morphine consumption), while meloxicam produced better antihyperalgesia (fewer episodes of severe pain) in contrast to controls. When used in tandem, the beneficial effects were combined.