Anaesthetic & Surgical Planning

Question 1

What are the aims of general anaesthesia?

Answer 1

Unconsciousness
Absent nociception
Muscle relaxation
Maintenance of homeostasis/tissue oxygen delivery

Question 2

What are the three stages of anaesthetic planning?

Answer 2

1. History and physical exam
   - identify any risks in hx, signalment and examination
   - identify time of last meal
   - assess general health (systems screen)
   - full PE +/- any ancillary tests
2. Pre-operative plan
   - planning premedications,
   - consider the surgical procedure and expected complications
   - correct fluid or acid-base deficits
   - consider specific conditions (e.g. renal function)
3. Premedication

Question 3

Outline ASA scoring

Answer 3

1 = young, healthy
2 = older or mild systemic abnormality (no clinical signs)
3 = moderate systemic abnormality with mild clinical signs
4 = severe disturbance that is a constant threat to life
5 = animal not expected to survive >24h
e = emergency anaesthetic