Diagnostic tests and surgical interventions can be delicate moments for our patients, especially when they are outside their usual environment and without the company of family or loved ones. This situation can lead to increased nervousness, complicating both the professionals' work and the patient's health status.

At IVeM, we understand this situation, which is why we have Quique Plaza, who is responsible for the anesthesia and analgesia service.

To ensure the well-being of our patients and tailor the procedure to each individual, the chosen anesthetic protocol is based on various factors, such as the patient’s condition and the type of intervention required, as well as any pre-existing conditions.

In this regard, conducting a pre-anesthetic consultation is essential to get to know each patient who will undergo anesthesia in detail.

At IVeM, we take pride in providing comprehensive care for our patients, and the pre-anesthetic consultation is a fundamental part of our approach. We are committed to delivering the highest quality of veterinary care, ensuring that every patient feels cared for, comfortable, and safe before, during, and after any medical or surgical procedure.

Brachycephalic syndrome is a condition that causes airway obstruction due to increased resistance in the respiratory tract. It is characterized by nasal stenosis (abnormally narrow nostrils), hypertrophied turbinates and nasopharynx, an elongated soft palate, and eversion of the laryngeal sacs

This syndrome primarily affects dog breeds such as Bulldogs (English, French, and Boston Bull Terrier), Pekingese, Pugs, Boxers, Beagles, Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzus, Pugs, and small Shar Peis. In cats, it also affects Persian and Himalayan breeds.

Brachycephalic breeds require pre-oxygenation, rapid intubation, and swift anesthetic induction due to their high-risk status.

For these patients, strict monitoring throughout the anesthetic procedure is essential, with particular attention paid to the induction and recovery stages, as these are the moments when the most significant issues can arise. There is no universally applicable protocol for all cases.

Tracheal collapse refers to the condition in which the trachea experiences pathological narrowing. When total collapse occurs, the dog has difficulty inhaling and exhaling air to and from the lungs. Clinical signs vary depending on the degree and location of the collapse, ranging from paroxysmal coughing episodes to respiratory distress.

Tracheal collapse is a degenerative disease that unfortunately has no cure and primarily affects small dog breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Pomeranians. It typically manifests more frequently starting around six or seven years of age.

It is important to exercise caution when administering anesthesia, as the endotracheal tube should be introduced with minimal invasion into the trachea. It is also crucial to consider the limitations when assessing the severity and extent of the disease.

The most common pathologies in the respiratory system of dogs include pneumonia, pulmonary edema, lung masses, contusions, and atelectasis.

It’s important to note that these animals have reduced pulmonary reserve, meaning they have decreased functional residual capacity and may experience varying degrees of respiratory difficulty, low blood oxygen levels (hypoxemia), and increased carbon dioxide (hypercapnia). Therefore, special precautions should be taken when anesthetizing these patients.

During anesthesia, ensuring adequate oxygenation and pulmonary ventilation is essential to avoid respiratory complications. Close monitoring of respiratory function is necessary, including blood oxygen saturation, carbon dioxide arterial pressure (PaCO2), and oxygen arterial pressure (PaO2). 

Attention should also be paid to airway pressure and cardiovascular function.

In summary, when anesthetizing dogs with pulmonary pathologies, additional precautions must be taken due to their reduced pulmonary reserve. Continuous monitoring of respiratory and cardiovascular function is vital, and one must be prepared to address any respiratory complications that may arise during the anesthetic procedure.