Anesthesia 25

What is the biggest anesthetic risk in ruminants

aspiration of rumen contents

Why are ruminants prone to aspiration

regurgitation of rumen contents during anesthesia

What happens when ruminants aspirate rumen contents

airway closure, lung damage, hypoxemia, and possible death

Why is intubation critical in ruminants

to protect the airway from aspiration

What is the recommended airway management for anesthetized farm animals

endotracheal intubation

What positioning helps prevent aspiration in ruminants

sternal recumbency with head elevated

Why should the head be elevated in ruminants during anesthesia

to allow saliva and rumen fluid drainage

How much saliva do adult ruminants produce daily

approximately 50 liters per day

What complication does hypersalivation increase risk of

aspiration

What is a major GI complication during ruminant anesthesia

bloat

How does bloat affect the body

decreases venous return and impairs breathing

Why does bloat cause hypoventilation

pressure on diaphragm limits lung expansion

What is used to relieve bloat during anesthesia

rumen tube

Why is a rumen tube placed during anesthesia

to relieve gas and allow drainage of rumen contents

What are common complications of ruminant anesthesia

hypersalivation bloat regurgitation hypoventilation

What causes hypoventilation in anesthetized ruminants

recumbency and diaphragm compression

What is the main cause of hypoxemia in aspiration

lung damage from acidic rumen contents

Why should ruminants be fasted before anesthesia

to decrease rumen fill and reduce bloat and regurgitation risk

What happens if ruminants are not fasted

increased risk of bloat and aspiration

Why are many ruminant procedures done standing

to avoid risks of general anesthesia

What type of anesthesia is used for standing procedures

sedation with local anesthesia

Name common standing procedures in ruminants

castration, dehorning, c section, wound repair

When is general anesthesia required in ruminants

complex procedures like orthopedic surgery or difficult c section

What should be done before recovery in ruminants

inspect airway for fluid and protect airway

Why should the larynx and pharynx be inspected before recovery

to check for fluid and prevent aspiration

Why is padding important in ruminants during anesthesia

to prevent myopathy and neuropathy

What complications can occur from poor positioning in ruminants

myopathy and neuropathy

Why are ruminants at risk of myopathy and neuropathy

large body weight and prolonged recumbency

What factors influence anesthetic approach in ruminants

cost field vs hospital and production vs pet status