Untangling the Lines

In this episode, we discuss the biphasic effects of dexmedetomidine on the cardiovascular system and how we manage the decreased heart rates associated with this drug.  We review a 2021 article from Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia regarding lidocaine as a treatment for dexmedetomidine-induced bradycardia.    Link to the journal article: shorturl.at/ioQW4

We are FINALLY publishing the third part of our series on hypotension management. Please welcome Dr. Kelley Varner to the podcast - our new cohost! In this episode, we review the basic concepts of cardiac output and steps #1-4 of our method, the main receptors of the sympathetic nervous system, and the pressors and inotropes we use to increase blood pressure. 

This episode continues our discussion of managing low blood pressure under anesthesia. Together, we lay out my 5 step approach to hypotension - 1) Evaluate the patient 2) Reduce the inhalant if possible 3) Normalize heart rate, 4) Fluid support, and lastly, 5) Pressors, and/or positive inotropes.

This episode is the first of a three-part series addressing perioperative hypotension. Today we briefly review some cardiovascular physiology and the buzzwords around blood pressure management and discuss the 3 main approaches to monitoring blood pressure. This episode will give us a good background to discuss my 5-step approach to hypotension management in the OR.

In this episode, we dive into the particulars of feline anesthesia. We offer our tips and tricks to intubation, managing hypotension and bradycardia, and understanding the differences in drug choices. 

Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance! In this episode we discuss tips on preparing yourself for an anesthesia case - how to pick out important parts of the clinical history, the basics of interpreting blood work, and how we like to set up our induction and surgical areas.

This episode discusses the various types of opioid medications - including hydromorphone, methadone, fentanyl, butorphanol, and buprenorphine. We will discuss how these drugs affect the body as a class, but also about the differences between these medications. After listening to this episode, you will have a better understanding of how to choose an opioid for your patient and what complications you should expect.

In this episode, we will learn about anticholinergics - what they are, how they work, and when to use them.

This episode discusses the challenges of brachycephalic patients - including Bull Dogs, Frenchies, Pugs, etc. We will learn the common traits of Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome and the best way to support these patients in the peri-anesthetic period.

Today we discuss the anesthetic management of patients with brain disease. We will cover the Cushing's Reflex, how to intervene, and the best anesthetic protocols for these cases.