Retrospective study on the use of lumbosacral epidural analgesia during caesarean section surgery in 182 dogs: Impact on blood pressure, analgesic use and delays.

Abstract

We evaluated the use of lumbosacral epidural anaesthesia (LEA) in dogs undergoing caesarean section over 10 years. Anaesthetic records were reviewed and divided into two treatment groups: LEA and control. Outcome variables identified a priori as potentially affected by LEA were compared between groups. Results are frequency or median (minimum-maximum). Ninety-five dogs received LEA and 87 did not. LEA consisted of 0.2 (0.1-0.3) ml/kg containing bupivacaine (n = 63), ropivacaine (n = 15), or lidocaine (n = 12) at concentrations ranging between 0.06% and 2%. Morphine, fentanyl, or buprenorphine were used as part of LEA. Groups were similar for demographic variables (all p > 0.06). Intravenous opioids were used more often in control than in LEA (p < 0.0005). Incidence of hypotension (MAP < 60 mm Hg) was LEA 68% and control 56% (p = 0.12). Duration of hypotension was longer in LEA (p = 0.03). Use of crystalloids and vasoactive drugs did not differ (all p > 0.1). Time from induction to operating room was 30 (8-75) min for control and 35 (18-65) min for LEA (p = 0.003). LEA during caesarean section in dogs was associated with lower rates of opioid administration and did not exacerbate the incidence of hypotension.