A simple method of providing intermittent positive-pressure ventilation to etorphine-immobilized elephants (Loxodonta africana) in the field.

Abstract

Five African elephants (Loxodonta africana) were immobilized with etorphine in Waza National Park, Cameroon, for the purpose of deploying radio/satellite tracking collars. A portable ventilator constructed from two high-flow demand valves and the Y-piece of a large animal anesthesia circuit was used to provide intermittent positive-pressure ventilation with 100% oxygen. Oxygenation status improved dramatically in all five elephants. In one hypoxemic elephant, arterial PaO2 increased from 40 to 366 mm Hg. The results of this study demonstrate that both oxygenation and ventilation can be readily controlled in etorphine-immobilized elephants even under remote field conditions.