Physiological variables for the objective detection of nerve block failure in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To identify physiological variables for objectively detecting nociception indicative of intraoperative peripheral nerve block failure. STUDY DESIGN: A double-blinded randomized clinical study. ANIMALS: A sample of 14 male (40.8 ± 12 kg; mean ± standard deviation) and 16 female (34.3 ± 11.4 kg) client-owned dogs. METHODS: Dogs were randomly assigned to one of three groups for psoas compartment and proximal sciatic nerve blocks (0.2 mL kg-1 per site): guided bupivacaine (GBB), or saline (GSB) block or a blind bupivacaine block (BBB). Guided blocks were performed using an ultrasound-peripheral nerve locator combination. Premedication consisted of medetomidine 0.01 mg kg-1 and morphine 0.3 mg kg-1. General anaesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with isoflurane in oxygen. Receiver operator characteristic curve analysis was used to compare actual values and change in values of physiological variables between GSB and GBB. The Youden index and associated criterion for each physiological variable were used to determine an objective measure for nociception. Fisher's exact t test, McNemar's test and Cohen's kappa statistical analysis were used to determine association, differences and inter-score reliability between the objective and subjective scoring for BBB. RESULTS: Cardiovascular variables had good discriminating ability to identify a nociceptive response (p < 0.01). The Youden indices for mean (MAP) and diastolic (DAP) arterial pressure were most reliable in detecting nociception. The highest sensitivity was that of ΔMAP (100%) with good agreement between the subjective and objective scores of Δheart rate or systolic arterial pressure (SAP). The use of ΔMAP, ΔSAP, ΔDAP had the best ability in indicating peripheral nerve block failure (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Blood pressure values can detect a response to surgical stimulus in adequately anaesthetized dogs. The use of ΔMAP, ΔSAP or ΔDAP may be considered as objective measures to detect nerve block failure.

Reliability of pulse oximetry at four different attachment sites in immobilized white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum).

OBJECTIVES: To determine the reliability of peripheral oxygen haemoglobin saturation (SpO2), measured by a Nonin PalmSAT 2500A pulse oximeter with 2000T transflectance probes at four attachment sites (third eyelid, cheek, rectum and tail), by comparing these measurements to arterial oxygen haemoglobin saturation (SaO2), measured by an AVOXimeter 4000 co-oximeter reference method in immobilized white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum). STUDY DESIGN: Randomized crossover study. ANIMALS: A convenience sample of eight wild-caught male white rhinoceros. METHODS: White rhinoceros were immobilized with etorphine (0.0026 ± 0.0002 mg kg-1, mean ± standard deviation) intramuscularly, after which the pinna was aseptically prepared for arterial blood sample collection, and four pulse oximeters with transflectance probes were fixed securely to their attachment sites (third eyelid, cheek, rectum and tail). At 30 minutes following recumbency resulting from etorphine administration, the animals were given either butorphanol (0.026 ± 0.0001 mg kg-1) or an equivalent volume of saline intravenously. At 60 minutes following recumbency, insufflated oxygen (15 L minute-1 flow rate) was provided intranasally. In total, the SpO2 paired measurements from the third eyelid (n = 80), cheek (n = 67), rectum (n = 59) and tail (n = 76) were compared with near-simultaneous SaO2 measurements using Bland-Altman to assess bias (accuracy), precision, and the area root mean squares (ARMS) method. RESULTS: Compared with SaO2, SpO2 measurements from the third eyelid were reliable (i.e., accurate and precise) above an SaO2 range of 70% (bias = 1, precision = 3, ARMS = 3). However, SpO2 measurements from the cheek, rectum and tail were unreliable (i.e., inaccurate or imprecise). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: A Nonin PalmSAT pulse oximeter with a transflectance probe inserted into the space between the third eyelid and the sclera provided reliable SpO2 measurements when SaO2 was > 70%, in immobilized white rhinoceros.

MEDETOMIDINE-KETAMINE-BUPRENORPHINE ANESTHESIA OF THE SOLITARY SUBTERRANEAN CAPE DUNE MOLE-RAT (BATHYERGUS SUILLUS) AND THE CAPE MOLE-RAT (GEORYCHUS CAPENSIS).

A prospective, descriptive study was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a field-ready anesthetic drug combination of medetomidine-ketamine-buprenorphine for data logger implantation surgery or recheck in free-ranging Cape dune (Bathyergus suillus: n = 41) and Cape (Georychus capensis: n = 37) mole-rats. All anesthesia data were reported as mean (±standard deviation). Medetomidine-ketamine-buprenorphine doses were 0.1 (±0.03), 10.6 (±2.8), and 0.06 (±0.03) mg/kg, respectively, for Cape dune mole-rats; and 0.2 (±0.03), 19.4 (±4.0), and 0.14 (±0.03) mg/kg, respectively, for Cape mole-rats. Induction was calm and took 2.00 (range: 1.00-6.00) min for the Cape dune and 1.75 (range 1.25 to 8.16) min for Cape mole-rats. A surgical plane of anesthesia was achieved in most Cape dune mole-rats (92%) and Cape mole-rats (90%). The remainder required supplementation with a single intramuscular injection of ketamine (3-9 mg/kg) during surgery. Heart and respiratory rates were 149 (±37) beats and 24 (±8) breaths per minute, respectively, for Cape dune mole-rats and 179 (±40) beats and 25 (±10) and breaths per minute, respectively for Cape mole-rats. Surgical time for mole-rats ranged from 25 to 38 min. Recovery was calm and took 8.50 (range: 2.00-19.00) min for Cape dune mole-rats and 9.75 (range: 2.00-34.00) min for Cape mole-rats to recover. For recovery, atipamezole was administered intramuscularly at 0.5 (±0.15) mg/kg for Cape dune mole-rats and 1 (±0.15) mg/kg for Cape mole-rats. All mole-rats were returned to their original burrows within 48 h of recovery. The medetomidine-ketamine-buprenorphine combination induced a predictable, safe anesthesia in Cape dune and Cape mole-rats suitable for short intraabdominal surgery. This combination is suited to in situ studies where the use of a formal surgery or laboratory is not feasible.

Cardiopulmonary responses of free-ranging African elephant (Loxodonta africana) bulls immobilized with a thiafentanil-azaperone combination.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the time course and certain cardiopulmonary effects of trunk-breathing elephants immobilized with thiafentanil-azaperone. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective descriptive study. ANIMALS: A convenience sample of 10 free-ranging African elephant bulls (estimated weight range: 3000-6000 kg). METHODS: Elephants were immobilized using thiafentanil (15-18 mg) and azaperone (75-90 mg) administered by dart. Once recumbent, the respiratory rate, minute ventilation (V˙e), end-tidal carbon dioxide (Pe'CO2), arterial blood pressure and heart rate were recorded immediately after instrumentation and at 5 minute intervals until 20 minutes. Arterial blood gases were analysed at the time of initial instrumentation and at 20 minutes. On completion of data collection, thiafentanil was antagonized using naltrexone (10 mg mg-1 thiafentanil; administered intravenously). A stopwatch was used to record time to recumbency (dart placement to recumbency) and time to recovery (administration of antagonist to standing). Data were compared using a one-way anova. Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation. RESULTS: All elephants were successfully immobilized, and there were no significant changes in cardiopulmonary variables over the monitoring period. Average time to recumbency was 12.5 (± 3.9) minutes. The measured V˙e was 103 (± 30) L minute-1. The average heart and respiratory rates over the 20 minute immobilization were steady at 49 (± 6) beats minute-1 and 5 (± 1) breaths minute-1, respectively. The mean arterial blood pressure was 153 (± 31) mmHg. The elephants were acidaemic (pH: 7.18 ± 0.06), mildly hypoxaemic (PaO2: 68 ± 15 mmHg; 9.1 ± 2.0 kPa) and hypercapnic (PaCO2: 52 ± 7 mmHg; 6.9 ± 0.9 kPa). Average time to recovery was 2.2 ± 0.5 minutes. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: African elephant bulls can be successfully immobilized using thiafentanil-azaperone. Recumbency was rapid, the cardiopulmonary variables were stable over time, and recovery was rapid and complete. Mild hypoxaemia and hypercapnia were evident.

Comparative effects of three different ventilatory treatments on arterial blood gas values and oxygen extraction in healthy anaesthetized dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effect of invasive continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), pressure-controlled ventilation (PCV) with positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and spontaneous breathing (SB) on PaO2, PaCO2 and arterial to central venous oxygen content difference (CaO2-CcvO2) in healthy anaesthetized dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective randomized crossover study. ANIMALS: A group of 15 adult male dogs undergoing elective orchidectomy. METHODS: Dogs were anaesthetized [buprenorphine, medetomidine, propofol and isoflurane in an air oxygen (FiO2= 0.5)]. All ventilatory treatments (CPAP: 4 cmH2O; PCV: 10 cmH2O driving pressure; PEEP, 4 cmH2O; respiratory rate of 10 breaths minute-1 and inspiratory-to-expiratory ratio of 1:2; SB: no pressure applied) were applied in a randomized order during the same anaesthetic. Arterial and central venous blood samples were collected immediately before the start and at 20 minutes after each treatment. Data were compared using a general linear mixed model (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Median PaO2 was significantly higher after PCV [222 mmHg (29.6 kPa)] than after CPAP [202 mmHg (26.9 kPa)] and SB [208 mmHg (27.7 kPa)] (p < 0.001). Median PaCO2 was lower after PCV [48 mmHg (6.4 kPa)] than after CPAP [58 mmHg (7.7 kPa)] and SB [56 mmHg (7.5 kPa)] (p < 0.001). Median CaO2-CcvO2 was greater after PCV (4.36 mL dL-1) than after CPAP (3.41 mL dL-1) and SB (3.23 mL dL-1) (p < 0.001). PaO2, PaCO2 and CaO2-CcvO2 were no different between CPAP and SB (p > 0.99, p = 0.697 and p = 0.922, respectively). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: CPAP resulted in similar arterial oxygenation, CO2 elimination and tissue oxygen extraction to SB. PCV resulted in improved arterial oxygenation and CO2 elimination. Greater oxygen extraction occurred with PCV than with CPAP and SB, offsetting its advantage of improved arterial oxygenation. The benefit of invasive CPAP over SB in the healthy anaesthetized dog remains uncertain.

Describing acid-base balance using three different methods of analysis in a feline acute haemorrhage-resuscitation model.

OBJECTIVE: To describe acid-base status using the Henderson-Hasselbalch, Stewart and semi-quantitative methods of analysis in a feline haemorrhage-resuscitation model. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized crossover study. ANIMALS: A total of six domestic cats (mean age, 21 months; weight, 4.9 kg). METHODS: Venous blood samples were taken before haemorrhage, after haemorrhage at 30 minute intervals during fluid resuscitation and at 24 hours. The cats were anaesthetized and underwent following treatments: no purposeful haemorrhage and resuscitation (NoPHR), purposeful haemorrhage followed by either lactated Ringer's solution (LRS) or 6% tetrastarch 130/0.4 (Voluven) for resuscitation. LRS and Voluven were administered at 60 and 20 mL kg-1 hour-1, respectively, for 120 minutes. Variables used for the analysis methods were measured or calculated from the blood samples and then compared among treatments over time using a general linear mixed model (p < 0.05; data reported as mean and standard deviation). RESULTS: The total blood loss at 120 minutes was 10.2 ± 2.3, 29.3 ± 9.0 and 29.1 ± 6.3 mL kg-1 for NoPHR, LRS and Voluven, respectively. Total volumes of LRS and Voluven administered were 120 and 40 mL kg-1, respectively. All cats became acidaemic during anaesthesia regardless of treatment. The Henderson-Hasselbalch method indicated that anaesthetized cats undergoing severe haemorrhage and resuscitation manifest a mixed acidosis. The Stewart method indicated two counter metabolic processes that contributed to the overall pH-decrease in apparent strong ion difference (acidosis) and decrease in total weak acids (alkalosis). The semi-quantitative method identified the free water and chloride effects as variables causing acidosis and the albumin effect causing alkalosis. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In an experimental haemorrhage and resuscitation model in cats, blood pH was similar among treatments over time regardless of severe haemorrhage and resuscitation with LRS or Voluven or mild haemorrhage and no resuscitation.

Investigation of biomarkers for impending fluid overload in a feline acute haemorrhage-resuscitation model.

OBJECTIVE: To determine biomarkers for impending fluid overload during intravenous fluid administration in a feline haemorrhage-resuscitation model. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized crossover study. ANIMALS: A group of six domestic cats (mean age and weight: 21 months; 4.9 kg, respectively). METHODS: The cats underwent three treatments, 2 months apart. They were anaesthetized and instrumented to measure a range of physiological, blood gas, haematological and biochemical variables over time. Samples were taken during a health check, before haemorrhage, after haemorrhage and then at 30 minute intervals during fluid resuscitation and 24 hours later. The three treatments were: 1) control, sham haemorrhage and resuscitation; 2) lactated Ringer's solution (LRS); and 3) 6% tetrastarch 130/0.4 (Vol) where the cats underwent a controlled haemorrhage then resuscitation by administering LRS and Vol at 60 and 20 mL kg-1 hour-1, respectively, for 120 minutes. Fluid overload was identified by nasal discharge and radiographic evidence. Biomarkers were variables that exceeded the reference interval for cats during treatment. Potential biomarkers were analysed using receiver operating characteristic curves (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Mean ± standard deviation total blood loss was 10.2 ± 2.3, 29.3 ± 9.0 and 29.1 ± 6.3 mL kg-1 for control, LRS and Vol, respectively. The total volume of LRS and Vol administered was 120 and 40 mL kg-1, respectively. Haematocrit, albumin, magnesium, chloride-to-sodium ratio and sodium-chloride difference were identified as potential biomarkers. These variables exceeded the reference intervals from 30 minutes of resuscitation onwards. A chloride-to-sodium ratio > 0.84 was the most sensitive (90%) and specific (75%) of all potential biomarkers. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Changes in physiological variables, haematocrit and albumin were poor biomarkers of impending fluid overload compared with electrolytes. Finding the ideal biomarker to identify impending fluid overload of commonly used intravenous fluids should improve the safety of their administration in cats.

Use of blood colour for assessment of arterial oxygen saturation in immobilized impala (Aepyceros melampus).

OBJECTIVE: To determine the relationship between arterial blood colour [as defined by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) L∗a∗b∗ colour space] and haemoglobin oxygen saturation [functional saturation (SaO2) and fractional saturation (FO2Hb)], and if arterial blood colour can be used to predict arterial haemoglobin oxygen saturation. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive study as an adjunct to two prospective randomized crossover studies. ANIMALS: A group of 10 wild caught adult female impala (Aepyceros melampus) weighing 34.1 ± 5.2 kg (mean ± standard deviation). METHODS: Impala were immobilized with potent opioids (0.09 mg kg-1 of etorphine or thiafentanil). A total of 163 arterial blood samples were collected anaerobically into heparinized syringes from arterial cannulae and analysed immediately using spectrocolourimetry and co-oximetry. Data were analysed by modelling the relationship between predicted arterial blood colour CIE L∗a∗b∗ components and SaO2 and FO2Hb. The models were then used to predict values for L∗, a∗ and b∗ to produce a colour palette for the range of SaO2 and FO2Hb used. The modified version of the Farnsworth-Munsell hue test was used to assess the subjective ordering of the resulting colour palette by 20 observers. RESULTS: The second-order polynomial (quadratic) model produced the best fit for all three arterial blood colour CIE L∗a∗b∗ components for both SaO2 and FO2Hb. The regression models were used to generate predicted arterial blood colour CIE L∗a∗b∗ components for the midpoint of each decile over a range of SaO2 and FO2Hb percentages (15% to 95%). The resulting colour palettes were correctly ordered by all observers in the SaO2 range of 45-95% saturation. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: An association between arterial blood colour (as defined by CIE L∗a∗b∗ components) and SaO2 and FO2Hb exists, and arterial blood colour can be used to give a clinically useful estimate of arterial haemoglobin oxygen saturation in impala.

Immobilization of African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer) using etorphine-midazolam compared with etorphine-azaperone.

OBJECTIVE: To compare induction times and physiological effects of etorphine-azaperone with etorphine-midazolam immobilization in African buffaloes. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized crossover study. ANIMALS: A group of 10 adult buffalo bulls (mean body weight 353 kg). METHODS: Etorphine-azaperone (treatment EA; 0.015 and 0.15 mg kg-1, respectively) and etorphine-midazolam (treatment EM; 0.015 and 0.15 mg kg-1, respectively) were administered once to buffaloes, 1 week apart. Once in sternal recumbency, buffaloes were instrumented and physiological variables recorded at 5 minute intervals, from 5 minutes to 20 minutes. Naltrexone (20 mg mg-1 etorphine dose) was administered intravenously at 40 minutes. Induction (dart placement to recumbency) and recovery (naltrexone administration to standing) times were recorded. Arterial blood samples were analysed at 5 and 20 minutes. Physiological data were compared between treatments using a general linear mixed model and reported as mean ± standard deviation. Time data were compared using Mann-Whitney U test and reported as median (interquartile range) with p ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: Actual drug doses administered for etorphine, azaperone and midazolam were 0.015 ± 0.001, 0.15 ± 0.01 and 0.16 ± 0.02 mg kg-1, respectively. Induction time for treatment EA was 3.3 (3.6) minutes and not different from 3.2 (3.2) minutes for treatment EM. The overall mean arterial blood pressure was significantly lower for treatment EA (102 ± 25 mmHg) than that for treatment EM (163 ± 18 mmHg) (p < 0.001). The PaO2 for treatment EA (37 ± 12 mmHg; 5.0 ± 1.6 kPa) was not different from that for treatment EM (43 ± 8 mmHg; 5.8 ± 1.1 kPa). Recovery time was 0.8 (0.6) minutes for treatment EA and did not differ from 1.1 (0.6) minutes for treatment EM. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Treatment EA was as effective as treatment EM for immobilization in this study. However, systemic arterial hypertension was a concern with treatment EM, and both combinations produced clinically relevant hypoxaemia. Supplemental oxygen administration is recommended with both drug combinations.

Immobilization, cardiopulmonary and blood gas effects of ketamine-butorphanol-medetomidine versus butorphanol-midazolam-medetomidine in free-ranging serval (Leptailurus serval).

OBJECTIVE: To compare ketamine-butorphanol-medetomidine (KBM) with butorphanol-midazolam-medetomidine (BMM) immobilization of serval. STUDY DESIGN: Blinded, randomized trial. ANIMALS: A total of 23 captures [KBM: five females, six males; 10.7 kg (mean); BMM: 10 females, two males; 9.6 kg]. METHODS: Serval were cage trapped and immobilized using the assigned drug combination delivered via a blow dart into gluteal muscles. Prior to darting, a stress score was assigned (0: calm; to 3: markedly stressed). Drug combinations were dosed based on estimated body weights: 8.0, 0.4 and 0.08 mg kg-1 for KBM and 0.4, 0.3 and 0.08 mg kg-1 for BMM, respectively. Time to first handling, duration of anaesthesia and recovery times were recorded. Physiological variables including blood glucose and body temperature were recorded at 5 minute intervals. Atipamezole (5 mg mg-1 medetomidine) and naltrexone (2 mg mg-1 butorphanol) were administered intramuscularly prior to recovery. Data, presented as mean values, were analysed using general linear mixed model and Spearman's correlation (stress score, glucose, temperature); significance was p < 0.05. RESULTS: Doses based on actual body weights were 8.7, 0.4 and 0.09 mg kg-1 for KBM and 0.5, 0.4 and 0.09 mg kg-1 for BMM, respectively. Time to first handling was 10.2 and 13.3 minutes for KBM and BMM, respectively (p = 0.033). Both combinations provided cardiovascular stability during anaesthesia that lasted a minimum of 35 minutes. Recovery was rapid and calm overall, but ataxia was noted in KBM. Stress score was strongly correlated to blood glucose (r2 = 0.788; p = 0.001) and temperature (r2 = 0.634; p = 0.015). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Both combinations produced similar effective immobilization that was cardiovascularly stable in serval. Overall, BMM is recommended because it is fully antagonizable. A calm, quiet environment before drug administration is essential to avoid capture-induced hyperglycaemia and hyperthermia.

What hinders pulmonary gas exchange and changes distribution of ventilation in immobilized white rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum) in lateral recumbency?

This study used electrical impedance tomography (EIT) measurements of regional ventilation and perfusion to elucidate the reasons for severe gas exchange impairment reported in rhinoceroses during opioid-induced immobilization. EIT values were compared with standard monitoring parameters to establish a new monitoring tool for conservational immobilization and future treatment options. Six male white rhinoceroses were immobilized using etorphine, and EIT ventilation variables, venous admixture, and dead space were measured 30, 40, and 50 min after becoming recumbent in lateral position. Pulmonary perfusion mapping using impedance-enhanced EIT was performed at the end of the study period. The measured impedance (∆Z) by EIT was compared between pulmonary regions using mixed linear models. Measurements of regional ventilation and perfusion revealed a pronounced disproportional shift of ventilation and perfusion toward the nondependent lung. Overall, the dependent lung was minimally ventilated and perfused, but remained aerated with minimal detectable lung collapse. Perfusion was found primarily around the hilum of the nondependent lung and was minimal in the periphery of the nondependent and the entire dependent lung. These shifts can explain the high amount of venous admixture and physiological dead space found in this study. Breath holding redistributed ventilation toward dependent and ventral lung areas. The findings of this study reveal important pathophysiological insights into the changes in lung ventilation and perfusion during immobilization of white rhinoceroses. These novel insights might induce a search for better therapeutic options and is establishing EIT as a promising monitoring tool for large animals in the field.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Electrical impedance tomography measurements of regional ventilation and perfusion applied to etorphine-immobilized white rhinoceroses in lateral recumbency revealed a pronounced disproportional shift of the measured ventilation and perfusion toward the nondependent lung. The dependent lung was minimally ventilated and perfused, but still aerated. Perfusion was found primarily around the hilum of the nondependent lung. These shifts can explain the gas exchange impairments found in this study. Breath holding can redistribute ventilation.

Development of a severity scoring system for acute haemorrhage in anaesthetized domestic cats: the CABSS score.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether physiological, haematological, biochemical or electrolyte variables can predict severe haemorrhage in cats. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized crossover study whereby each cat underwent mild and severe haemorrhage, with a 2 month period between events. ANIMALS: A group of six domestic cats aged 21 ± 1 months and weighing 4.9 ± 1.2 kg, mean ± standard deviation. METHODS: Cats were anaesthetized (buprenorphine, alfaxalone, isoflurane in oxygen at a fixed end-tidal concentration of 1.7%) before the haemorrhage event. In total, 34 variables were measured twice (prehaemorrhage and posthaemorrhage). The difference and percent change for each variable were compared between haemorrhage events (paired t test). Significant variables were placed into 13 different ratios (posthaemorrhage value of one variable divided by a posthaemorrhage value of a second variable) and compared (paired t test), and Cohen's d (d) was calculated. Receiver operating characteristic curves were plotted and cut-off values for weak, moderate and strong indicators of severe haemorrhage were obtained. RESULTS: The blood loss was 4.5 ± 1.1 mL kg-1 and 26.8 ± 5.5 mL kg-1 for mild and severe haemorrhage events, respectively. The most significant variables with large effect sizes were heart rate (HR), systolic arterial blood pressure (SAP), end-tidal carbon dioxide (Pe'CO2), serum albumin, haematocrit and actual bicarbonate ion concentration [HCO3-(act)]. The most robust ratios were: 1) shock index (d = -2.8; HR:SAP); 2) HR:Pe'CO2 (d = -2.9); 3) serum albumin: haematocrit (d = 1.5); and 4) HR:HCO3-(act) (d = -1.6). These ratios were included in the final proposed Cat Acute Bleeding Scoring System (CABSS). CONCLUSIONS: and clinical relevance Cats subjected to mild and severe haemorrhage demonstrated statistically and clinically relevant changes whereby four ratios could be created to make up the CABSS. The ratios detected and quantified the presence of severe haemorrhage in anaesthetized cats.

Blood acid-base, haematological and haemostatic effects of hydroxyethyl starch (130/0.4) compared to succinylated gelatin colloid infusions in normovolaemic dogs.

Synthetic colloids are commonly administered to dogs to treat absolute or relative hypovolaemia. Voluven® (tetrastarch 130/0.4) and Gelofusine® (succinylated gelatin) are available to veterinarians in South Africa. In humans, use of these products has caused acid-base derangements, changes in haematology and impaired haemostasis. We aimed to investigate these effects in healthy normovolaemic dogs. Eight healthy adult beagle dogs underwent a cross-over study, receiving Voluven® or Gelofusine® (10 mL/kg/h for 120 min) once each with a 14-day washout between treatments. Dogs were premedicated with dexmedetomidine (10 µg/kg intramuscularly). Anaesthesia was induced with propofol and the dogs were maintained with isoflurane-in-oxygen. The anaesthetised dogs were connected to a multi-parameter monitor to monitor physiological parameters throughout. Catheters placed in a jugular vein and dorsal metatarsal artery allowed sampling of venous and arterial blood. Blood was collected immediately prior to commencement of colloid infusion, after 60 min infusion and at the end of infusion (120 min) to allow for arterial blood gas analysis, haematology and coagulation testing (activated partial thromboplastin time [aPTT], prothrombin time [PT] and thromboelastography [TEG]). There was no effect, between treatments or over time, on blood pH. The haemoglobin concentration, erythrocyte count and haematocrit decreased significantly over time (all p 0.01), with no differences between treatments, and remained within normal clinical ranges. There were no differences between treatments or over time for the TEG, aPTT and PT tests of haemostasis. At the dose studied, Voluven® and Gelofusine® had comparably negligible effects on blood acid-base balance and coagulation in normovolaemic dogs.

Evaluation of the reliability of pulse oximetry, at different attachment sites, to detect hypoxaemia in immobilized impala (Aepyceros melampus).

OBJECTIVE: Evaluation of the reliability of pulse oximetry at four different attachment sites compared to haemoglobin oxygen saturation measured by a co-oximeter and calculated by a blood gas analyser in immobilized impala. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized crossover study. ANIMALS: A total of 16 female impala. METHODS: Impala were immobilized with etorphine or thiafentanil alone, or etorphine in combination with a novel drug. Once immobilized, arterial blood samples were collected at 5 minute intervals for 30 minutes. Then oxygen was insufflated (5 L minute-1) intranasally at 40 minutes and additional samples were collected. A blood gas analyser was used to measure the arterial partial pressure of oxygen and calculate the oxygen haemoglobin saturation (cSaO2); a co-oximeter was used to measure the oxygen haemoglobin saturation (SaO2) in arterial blood. Pulse oximeter probes were attached: under the tail, to the pinna (ear) and buccal mucosa (cheek) and inside the rectum. Pulse oximeter readings [peripheral oxygen haemoglobin saturation (SpO2) and pulse quality] were recorded at each site and compared with SaO2 and cSaO2 using Bland-Altman and accuracy of the area root mean squares (Arms) methods to determine the efficacy. P value < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: Pulse quality was 'good' at each attachment site. SpO2 measured under the tail was accurate and precise but only when SaO2 values were above 90% (bias = 3, precision = 3, Arms = 4). The ear, cheek and rectal probes failed to give accurate or precise readings (ear: bias = -4, precision = 14, Arms = 15; cheek: bias = 12, precision = 11, Arms = 16; and rectum: bias = 5, precision = 12, Arms = 13). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In order to obtain accurate and precise pulse oximetry readings in immobilized impala, probes must be placed under the tail and SaO2 must be above 90%. Since SaO2 values are usually low in immobilized impala, pulse oximeter readings should be interpreted with caution.

Effects of chemical and mechanical stimulation on laryngeal motion during alfaxalone, thiopentone or propofol anaesthesia in healthy dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effect of chemical and mechanical stimulation on arytenoid cartilage motion during anaesthetic induction with alfaxalone, thiopentone or propofol. STUDY DESIGN: Masked, randomized, crossover study. ANIMALS: A group of eight adult Beagle dogs. METHODS: Anaesthesia was induced with thiopentone (7.5 mg kg-1), propofol (3 mg kg-1) or alfaxalone (1.5 mg kg-1) intravenously (IV), which were concurrently paired with either chemical (doxapram at 2.5 mg kg-1 IV) or mechanical (gentle pressure to the corniculate process of the right arytenoid cartilage using a cotton bud) stimulation for enhanced assessment of laryngeal motion, in random order, with a 1 week wash-out period between treatments. If deemed inadequately anaesthetized, supplemental boli of thiopentone (1.8 mg kg-1), propofol (0.75 mg kg-1) or alfaxalone (0.4 mg kg-1) were administered. Assessment of number of arytenoid motions and vital breaths, among others, was initiated immediately after induction. Chemical (doxapram) and mechanical stimulation were begun 2 minutes after anaesthetic induction. Data were collected at 2, 3 and 5 minutes after anaesthetic induction and the Friedman rank-sum or repeated-measures analysis of variance tests were used when applicable for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The duration of examination time was shorter among treatments combined with chemical stimulation (p=0.001). Examination time during induction was longer for alfaxalone-chemical (8.9 minutes) and -mechanical (10.9 minutes) compared to both induction with thiopentone-chemical (3.8 minutes) and propofol-chemical (4.0 minutes). The median number of arytenoid motions for both thiopentone (67) and propofol (59) induction combined with chemical stimulation was significantly higher in comparison to that of alfaxalone (1), thiopentone (2) and propofol (2), when combined with mechanical stimulation at 3 minutes after induction. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Among the regimens for assessing laryngeal motion assessed in the present study, combinations of thiopentone or propofol with doxapram are the most effective means of stimulating arytenoid motion and could improve the accuracy of diagnosis of laryngeal paralysis in dogs.

Compared to etorphine-azaperone, the ketamine-butorphanol-medetomidine combination is also effective at immobilizing zebra (Equus zebra).

OBJECTIVE: To compare immobilization efficacy of a nonpotent opioid drug combination, ketamine-butorphanol-medetomidine (KBM) to the preferred etorphine-azaperone (EA) combination in zebras. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized crossover trial. ANIMALS: A group of ten adult zebra (six females and four male). METHODS: KBM and EA were administered once to the zebras in random order by dart, 3 weeks apart. Once a zebra was recumbent and instrumented, physiological parameters were measured and recorded at 5-minute intervals until 20 minutes. Antagonist drugs were administered at 25 minutes. KBM was antagonised using atipamezole (7.5 mg mg-1 medetomidine dose) and naltrexone (2 mg mg-1 butorphanol dose). EA was antagonized using naltrexone (20 mg mg-1 etorphine dose). Induction and recovery (following antagonist administration) times were recorded. Physiological parameters, including invasive blood pressure and blood gas analysis, were compared between combinations using a general linear mixed model. Data are reported as mean ± standard deviation or median (interquartile range). RESULTS: The doses of KBM and EA administered were 3.30 ± 0.18, 0.40 ± 0.02 and 0.16 ± 0.01 mg kg-1; and 0.02 ± 0.001 and 0.20 ± 0.01 mg kg-1, respectively. KBM and EA induction times were 420 (282-564) and 240 (204-294) seconds, respectively (p = 0.03). Zebras remained recumbent throughout the study procedures. Systolic blood pressure (226 ± 42 and 167 ± 42 mmHg) and oxygen partial pressure (64 ± 12 and 47 ± 13 mmHg) were higher for KBM compared to EA (p < 0.01). Recovery time, after administering antagonists, was 92 (34-1337) and 26 (22-32) seconds for KBM and EA, respectively (p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Compared to EA, KBM also immobilized zebras effectively. Systemic hypertension and moderate hypoxaemia are clinical concerns of KBM and severe hypoxaemia is a concern of EA. This occurrence of hypoxaemia highlights the importance of oxygen administration during immobilization.

Effects of hyaluronidase on ropivacaine or bupivacaine regional anaesthesia of the canine pelvic limb.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of hyaluronidase on time to onset and offset of anaesthesia in ropivacaine or bupivacaine femoral-ischiatic nerve blocks. STUDY DESIGN: Blinded randomized crossover trial. ANIMALS: Eight dogs. METHODS: Each dog underwent four treatments separated into two blocks - initially, the ropivacaine treatment block: RS (ropivacaine 0.5% plus saline 0.9%) and RH (ropivacaine 0.5% plus hyaluronidase 100 IU mL-1), followed 3 weeks later by the bupivacaine treatment block: BS (bupivacaine 0.5% plus saline) and BH (bupivacaine 0.5% plus hyaluronidase). The local anaesthetics were administered at 0.1 mL kg-1 per site. Hyaluronidase and saline were administered at 0.02 mL kg-1 per site. Performance of femoral-ischiatic blocks was aided by a combined ultrasound-electrolocation technique. The mechanical nociceptive threshold was measured, until offset or 360 minutes, using an algometer to ascertain baseline, onset and offset of anaesthesia. Onset and offset of anaesthesia were defined as a 25% increase above and as a return to <25% above baseline nociceptive threshold readings, respectively. RESULTS: The median (range) onset of anaesthesia for RS and RH was 21 (3-60) and 12 (3-21) minutes, respectively (p = 0.141), and offset was 270 (90-360) and 180 (30-300) minutes, respectively (p = 0.361). By contrast, the median (range) onset of anaesthesia for BS and BH was 24 (3-60) and 9 (3-27) minutes, respectively (p = 0.394), and offset was 360 (240-360) and 330 (210-360) minutes, respectively (p = 0.456). CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Hyaluronidase had no effect on the onset and offset times of ropivacaine and bupivacaine femoral-ischiatic nerve blocks in dogs compared with saline. The onset and offset times were highly variable in all treatments. Clinically, the high variability of the onset and offset times of the regional anaesthesia of these local anaesthetic drugs means that clinicians must monitor the animal's response and, if required, provide additional analgesic drugs.

Xenotransfusion with packed bovine red blood cells to a wildebeest calf (Connochaetes taurinus).

A 4-month-old female blue wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus) was presented for bilateral pelvic limb fracture repair. Clinical examination under anaesthesia revealed a water-hammer pulse and a haematocrit of 0.13. A xenotransfusion was performed using bovine (Bos taurus) erythrocytes because of inability to acquire a wildebeest donor. Clinical parameters improved following transfusion and the post-operative haematocrit value was 0.31. The wildebeest remained physiologically stable with a gradually declining haematocrit for the next three days. On the third post-operative day, the wildebeest refractured its femur and was humanely euthanised because of the poor prognosis for further fracture repair. Xenotransfusion using blood from domestic ruminants represents a life-saving short-term emergency treatment of anaemic hypoxia in wild ungulates. Domestic goats could be used as blood donors for rare ungulates where allodonors are not available.

Aortic Arch Baroreceptor Stimulation in an Experimental Goat Model: A Novel Method to Lower Blood Pressure.

The effect of aortic baroreceptor stimulation on blood pressure manipulation was assessed using the goat species Capra aegagrus hircus. The aim of this study was to manipulate blood pressure with future intention to treat high blood pressure in humans. The ages of the animals ranged from 6 months to 2 years. A standard anesthesia protocol was used. A lateral thoracotomy was performed to gain access to the aortic arch. Data was collected with the Vigileo system. Pre stimulation blood pressure was compared with maximum post stimulation blood pressure values. Results were analyzed with the Wilcoxon signed rank test. In the study 38 animals were enrolled. Baroreceptor stimulation was performed for each animal using 3 different electrodes each of which emits an electrical impulse. In the pilot phase of the study, the median baseline blood pressure prior to stimulation of the baroreceptors was 110.8 mmHg. After stimulation the median blood pressure decreased to 88 mmHg. The average decrease in blood pressure was 22.8 mmHg. This decrease of blood pressure after stimulation of the baroreceptors is statistically significant (p < 0.0001) and the proof of concept was shown. During the extended phase all three probes had a significant effect on blood pressure lowering (p < 0.0001). The study confirmed that aortic baroreceptor stimulation has an effect on blood pressure lowering. This is a novel field of blood pressure manipulation. The hemodynamic effects of long-term aortic baroreceptor stimulation are unknown. Further investigations need to be done to determine whether a similar effect can be induced in different species such as primates and humans.

Cardiopulmonary effects of anaesthesia maintained by propofol infusion versus isoflurane inhalation in cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus).

OBJECTIVE: To compare the cardiopulmonary effects of propofol total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA) with isoflurane in cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) to evaluate feasibility for field use. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective clinical study. ANIMALS: A group of 24 adult cheetahs, 12 per group. METHODS: Cheetahs were immobilized with zolazepam/tiletamine (1.2 mg kg-1) and medetomidine [40 µg kg-1, both intramuscular (IM)] by darting. A maintenance protocol of propofol TIVA (group P) or isoflurane inhalation (group I) was assigned randomly to each cheetah. Anaesthesia was maintained for at least 60 minutes. Cheetahs breathed spontaneously throughout; oxygen was supplemented at 3 L minute-1. Cardiopulmonary parameters were recorded at 5 minute intervals and three arterial blood gas samples were analysed. Following maintenance, atipamezole was administered IM (200 µg kg-1) and recovery was observed. Data are reported as mean±standard deviation; variables over time were compared using a linear mixed model (fixed: time, treatment; random: cheetah). RESULTS: Lack of response to manipulations was maintained in all cases (end-tidal isoflurane percentage 1.1±0.1%, propofol rate maintained at 0.1 mg kg-1 minute-1). The heart and respiratory rates were acceptable throughout maintenance. The end-tidal carbon dioxide tension increased slowly [44.0±5.0 mmHg (5.87±0.67 kPa)] with no differences between groups. All cheetahs were initially markedly hypertensive [mean arterial blood pressure (MAP): (163±17 mmHg)]. The MAP normalized for group I (125±30 mmHg) but remained high for group P (161±17 mmHg) (p < 0.001). Arterial carbon dioxide tension [48.9±14.6 mmHg (6.52±1.95 kPa)] never differed between groups. Initial arterial oxygen tension indicated borderline hypoxaemia, but improved with oxygen supplementation. Recovery time was 10.8±5.0 and 51.9±23.5 minutes for group I and group P, respectively. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Both protocols provided acceptable cardiopulmonary values. Propofol may be an alternative to isoflurane for field use, but the prolonged recovery may make it less suitable for long-term anaesthesia.