The effect of isotonic multiple electrolyte infusions during anesthesia on blood gas and enzymatic values in horses.

This research tested the effectiveness of using larger quantities of Ringer’s solution, an isotonic electrolyte solution, during equine surgery to maintain blood gas and enzymatic balance, reducing the risk of post-surgical muscle damage. The results suggested that larger doses of the fluid during anesthesia do have a protective effect on horses’ muscle cells.

Objective and Methodology

• The main goal of this study was to analyze the changes in the acid-base equilibrium and blood enzymatic activity in horses before, during, and after surgery in relation to the intensity of the applied fluid therapy.
• The researchers observed and measured these changes in two groups of horses. Group I was given Ringer’s solution at 6-10 ml/kg body weight per hour during the operation. In comparison, Group II received the same solution at a higher dosage of 12-15 ml/kg per hour.

Background

• General anesthesia in horses can lead to complications such as arterial hypotension (low blood pressure), decreased capillary perfusion (reduced blood flow in the finest blood vessels), and ventilatory depression (slow or ineffective breathing).
• These complications may cause pathological changes often referred to as post-anesthetic myopathy, a disorder resulting in muscle damage due to impaired local and general circulation.
• The researchers hypothesized that the administration of isotonic multiple electrolyte infusions (fluid therapy like Ringer’s solution) during general anesthesia could serve to prevent myocyte damage by maintaining the balance of acid-base and enzymes in the blood.

Findings

• The study shows that the use of hydrating fluid infusions during general anesthesia minimizes the risk of muscle cell (myocyte) damage due to disturbances in local and general blood circulation.
• Interesting to note is that these protective effects were realized even with infusions that did not contain hypertensive substances, i.e., substances that would boost blood pressure.
• The results lean towards the conclusion that large doses of Ringer’s solution administered during anesthesia have a protective effect on horse’s muscle cells. This could ultimately suggest a new approach to managing the risks associated with general equine anesthesia.