VCS 226-Anesthesia Tutoring- Ruminant Anesthesia

Why is general anesthesia less commonly performed in ruminants?

Because blocking techniques are highly effective and their calm temperament often allows for minimal sedation

Why are long fasting periods required before anesthesia in ruminants?

To reduce the risk of regurgitation and bloat due to the large rumen and forestomachs.

Why is it difficult for ruminants to ventilate on their own during anesthesia?

Their rumen occupies 75% of the abdominal cavity, which can impair how they breathe

Why is it important to obtain a thorough history?

Because respiratory or metabolic issues increase the risk of complications

How long should ruminants be fasted before anesthesia?

Between 12-48 hours, depending on size

What pre-op tests are sufficient in healthy patients?

PCV and TP

What tools do we need to set up for intubating ruminants?

ET tube, stylet, cuff syringe, eye lubricant, and securing materials (gauze/tape)

Why is a stylet needed during intubation?

Due to limited visibility of the arytenoids and excess soft tissue

Where does the ET tube need to go past during intubation?

past larynx

What precaution must be taken when securing the ET tube?

Make sure it's tight enough to avoid unintentional extubation during anesthesia

Why are anticholinergics controversial in ruminants?

They can thicken saliva, making it ropey and harder to manage

What sedatives are ruminants highly sensitive to?

Xylazine (it must be used in very low doses)

Which drugs provide good sedation and muscle relaxation in ruminants?

Benzodiazepines

Do we tend to see the excitement phase with benzos more or less in ruminants?

Less

What drug do we normally see vocalization with?

Xylazine

Why is a patent catheter essential during GA in ruminants?

To ensure safe drug administration and fluid access

Which induction drugs are commonly used for small ruminants?

Propofol or ketamine/diazepam

What is the typical induction protocol for large ruminants?

GK (Guaifenesin + Ketamine) to effect, often after sedation

How should a large ruminant's head be positioned during induction?

Elevated and perpendicular to the ground to reduce aspiration risk

What equipment may be used to restrain large ruminants during induction?

A chute or tilt table

Why is intubation difficult in small ruminants?

Long soft palates and limited jaw opening limit visibility

How do we intubate using a stylet in ruminants?

Insert the stylet through the trachea, then slide the ET tube over it

How is intubation typically performed in large ruminants?

By palpating the trachea due to limited visualization

What tool helps prevent injury during intubation?

A mouth speculum

How do ruminant vitals differ from equine patients during anesthesia?

They have higher blood pressure and heart rate

What is the minimum acceptable MAP in anesthetized ruminants?

60 mmHg

What number for systolic BP do we normally see?

greater than 180 mmHg

How should limbs be positioned in lateral recumbency?

Pull the bottom front limb forward and support upper limbs

What fluid rate is typical for ruminants?

5-10 mL/kg/hr

What is the ideal recumbency during recovery?

Sternal recumbency with head supported in alignment with the spine

When should extubation occur?

When the animal starts to chew or swallow

Why is the cuff kept partially inflated during extubation?

To pull eructated contents out with the ET tube, reducing aspiration risk

What should you be cautious of when reversing camelids?

Risk of pulmonary edema