Anesthesia
Most of the ophthalmic surgical procedures require deep general anesthesia for our patients. We wish we could ask our patients to lie down on the table while we perform the surgery under local anesthesia, but that has proven to be less than effective 🙂
In order to safely administer general anesthesia, we require some preoperative tests which include blood tests, routine urine, and heart check-up. This gives us essential information about your pet’s overall health. If there is a major health problem that requires prior stabilization of the patient, we postpone the surgery. In emergency cases like uncontrolled diabetes with swollen cataracts or deep corneal ulcers, our expert team manages the anesthesia even if the blood values are not completely normal.Â
On the day of the surgery, we strictly require the patient to be empty stomach or fasting for at least 8 hours and no water for 4 hours. This is to make sure that the patient does not vomit during or after the surgery. In case the patient vomits, the vomit can enter the windpipe and can cause a life-threatening situation.Â
At the time of the anesthesia, we place an intravenous catheter, so that we don’t have to keep pricking your precious little one. About 30 mins before the anesthesia, we administer IV fluids, antacid, anti-vomiting agent, antibiotic, and sedatives. This makes your pet a little drowsy and reduces the total dose of anesthesia.
At the time of induction of anesthesia, an injection is given to anesthetize the patient and a silicon tube is passed in the windpipe. We then maintain the patient on a gas anesthetic. Gas anesthesia is the safest way to maintain anesthesia; patients have a faster and smoother operative recovery.Â
Throughout the anesthesia, we constantly monitor ECG, heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen levels, and more. The Eye Vet has state-of-the-art equipment and world-class clinical expertise to ensure the safest experience for your loved one.
We take anesthesia extremely seriously!