© 2008 Hampstead Animal Hospital
Anesthesia
Research has shown that a "multimodal approach" to anesthesia provides safety and
optimal care. "Multimodal" simply means multiple modes, multiple methods or use of
multiple drugs at lower doses (for increased safety) to provide pain management,
sedation (reduced anxiety) and predictable anesthetic depth.
The specific drugs selected
to provide anesthesia are not the same for each patient. A physical examination,
blood screening, the pet's medical history and the intended procedure are considered
together in selecting the anesthesia drugs.
Premedications allow for sedation (reduce apprehension) and pain prevention.
During
the procedure, regional anesthesia or nerve blocks help dramatically with pain management
and in the reduction of anesthesia gasses required to keep the pet anesthetized (sleeping).
This "multimodal approach" greatly improves safety by using lower drug dosages.
After
anesthesia the pet is monitored very carefully and pets go home with medications
for continued pain relief and infection control.
© Ina Sinzig Photography
© Fiona Johnson Photography
