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Veterinary Anesthesia
The CVETS anesthesia team aids all care teams with guidance on drug protocols to aid in pain control and stabilization of all patients.
Safe & Effective Anesthesia
At CVETS, each patient receiving general anesthesia has a customized protocol. The anesthesia team adjusts medications and management strategies based on the patient’s specific needs, breed-related issues, medical history, the procedure being performed, and client concerns. This approach focuses on effectively managing pain and ensuring overall stability.
Improving Pet Well-Being.
The CVETS anesthesia department provides general anesthesia, local anesthesia, and pain management services for all specialties within the hospital. Services are available on both a scheduled and emergency basis.
Ultrasound-guided local blocks
Ultrasound-guided local blocks are a technique used in dogs and cats to numb a specific area of the body before a procedure. This method involves using an ultrasound machine to visualize the area where the injection will be made, ensuring that the veterinarian can accurately place the numbing medication. This helps reduce pain during and after surgery, making the experience more comfortable for the pet. Essentially, it’s a way to target pain relief very precisely using advanced imaging technology.
One lung ventilation
One-lung ventilation is a technique used during surgery on dogs and cats where only one lung is used for breathing instead of both lungs. This is done to keep the other lung free from interference, allowing the surgeon to work on that side of the chest without any obstruction. By using special equipment, the pet can still get enough oxygen while the surgeon has a clear view and access to the area they are operating on. It’s a way to make sure the pet gets the care they need while keeping the procedure safe and effective.
Alternative approaches to securing an airway
Securing an airway in veterinary medicine is crucial for ensuring that a dog or cat can breathe properly during surgery or other medical procedures. While intubation (inserting a tube into the trachea) is the most common method, our veterinary anesthesiologist has several alternative approaches to secure an airway, especially in cases where intubation may be difficult or impossible.
Use of paralytics with neuromuscular blocking monitoring
The use of neuromuscular blocking agents (paralytics) in veterinary anesthesia allows for muscle relaxation during surgical procedures, making it easier for our doctors to perform surgeries, particularly in areas where muscle tone would normally interfere, such as the abdomen or chest.
Invasive blood pressure monitoring capabilities
Invasive blood pressure monitoring is a technique used in veterinary medicine (as well as in human medicine) to continuously measure blood pressure directly from the bloodstream. This method provides real-time, accurate information about an animal’s hemodynamic status during anesthesia and critical care.
Multi-modal approaches to pain control/management
Multi-modal approaches to pain control and management are vital in providing comprehensive care for patients with pain. By combining various therapeutic strategies, practitioners can achieve better pain relief, reduce the reliance on any single medication, and enhance the overall treatment of pain. This approach is particularly beneficial in veterinary medicine, where tailored pain management can significantly impact animal welfare and recovery outcomes.
Meet Our Veterinary Anesthesiologist
