Pig Anaesthesia Flashcards
What are some issues with anaesthesia in pigs?
Thick sub cut fat (need long needles) usually means you have to go IM initially, very prone to stress, IV access difficult, prone to malignant hypothermia, intubation difficult.
How long should pigs be starved before anaesthesia?
6 hours
Where is the ideal spot to sedate a pig IM? Why?
Usually in the neck, as it is a less valuable cut of meat
Why is intubation in the pig difficult?
The shape of the larygotracheal junction means you should go in, rotate 180 degrees, move again, rotate back. Technique is important.
Where is IV access gained in the pig?
Ear veins/limb veins. Not very easily accessible, so usually when sedated.
What is the main sedative used in pigs? How is it administered?
Azaperone. It is liscensed and given deep IM. Remember to wait 20-30 mins after given sedative.
What types of sedative can be given to pigs?
Azaperone (main & liscensed), Alpha 2 agonists, ACP (unpredictable), benzodiazapenes
Can you name some liscensed NSAIDs in the pig?
Flunixin, ketoprofen, Meloxicam
What injectable drugs can be used to induce anaesthesia in pigs? Are they liscensed?
Ketamine and Thiopentone (liscensed), Etomidate, Alfaxalone, Propofol
What is Malignant hyperthermia? What causes it?
Malignant hyperthermia is a disease in pigs cause by a faulty ryanodine reception gene which decreases activation threshold of muscles and increases the deactivation threshold to Calcium
What are the clinical signs of malignant hyperthermia in pigs?
Muscle rigidity (may see toe separation) due to ATP depletion, increased temp (42 degrees plus), Increased ETCO2, Pink blotchy skin, tachypnoea, tachycardia
How can you treat malignant hyperthermia if it occurs during anaesthesia in pigs?
Remove volatile agent and change circuit, rapid ventilation, cold fluids IV, ice packs, Dantrolene (to decrease Calcium release) - Test for it prophylactically!
