Anaesthesia and tele-anaesthesia

Anaesthesia is the pharmacologically induced loss of perception and immobilisation. The utilised drugs usually also affect other physiological functions of the body. Different protocols affect different functions in different species, and therefore it is important to use the appropriate method in each species.

Appropriate technique

Because it is easy to regulate, inhalation anaesthesia would be the method of choice in most cases. Unfortunately, in many cases this is not possible for the lack of mobility of the anaesthesia machine or the non-collaboration of the patient. Most wild animals in captivity are therefore immobilised with tele-anaesthesia using a dart with drugs and a blowpipe or an air pressure gun.

Monitoring

During anaesthesia it is important to know the possible complications and, should the situation arise, act quickly. To do so, a patient under anaesthesia is monitored and its heart and breathing rate, the capillary filling time and oxygen saturation are recorded. In case of a painful procedure like a surgery, the reflexes are tested in order to assure an optimal pain control.

Additional medications

Before anaesthesia calming drugs may be applied as premedication, which will increase the effect of the narcotics. For surgical interventions, additional pain killers are administered.

Basic policy

The aim of my work is to avoid anaesthesia if possible. In the case of an inevitable anaesthesia, the procedure must ensure minimal pain to the animal and the least possible physical and psychological damage.