Clinical, Biochemical and Haemodynamic Effects of the Intrathecal Ketamine for Ovariohysterectomy in Bitches

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effects of intrathecal (IT) ketamine HCl anesthesia on clinical values and some haemodynamic and biochemical parameters in bitches. An IT ketamine (10 mg/kg) was administered to 30 bitches with a spinal needle (18-22 G) in the lumbosacral space. The haemodynamic parameters were monitored and some biochemical values were assessed (blood gase, oxygen-haemoglobin, and electrolyte levels). The length and depth of anaesthesia was determined with a pinprick test, touching to the ligamenta lata uteri and incision. Anaesthesia took effect in less than 1 min in all dogs and has lasted an average of 95.9 min. In spite of the fact that the dogs recovered completely from the effects of dissociative anaesthesia, the anaesthesia in the some extremities was observed to be continued for an average of 17 min longer. The use of IT ketamine HCl raised blood pressure and did not have a depressive effect on respiratory and cardiac functions. It was concluded that ketamine HCl could be an appropriate alternative for ovariohysterectomy operations in bitches when the quality of the anaesthesia and the prevention of bradycardia and hypotension are considered.