Clinical Anesthesia in Reptiles

Sedative Effects of Intranasal Midazolam and Dexmedetomidine in 2 Species of Tortoises (Chelonoidis carbonaria and Geochelone platynota)

“…[1][2][3] Injectable agents (e.g., ketamine, midazolam, medetomidine, dexmedetomidine, butorphanol) are commonly used either exclusively or in combination to facilitate routine procedures requiring sedation. 4 Intramuscular and subcutaneous absorption of these agents in tortoises can be unpredictable, and venous access is frequently difficult. The use of inhalant anesthesia alone is not recommended because long induction times are typically required.…”

Effects of body position and extension of the neck and extremities on lung volume measured via computed tomography in red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans)

“…This finding is explained by space occupation of the extremities, head, and neck during withdrawal into the shell. Sedation is currently underutilized in reptile anesthesia 22 ; our results indicate that sedation is sufficient for extension of the extremities and neck, and general anesthesia is not needed for optimal radiographic positioning of turtles. 9 In some species of tortoises, it might be possible to achieve extension of the extremities by simply placing the animal on a block to suspend it off of the examination surface.…”

“…[17][18][19] In our study, total lung volume was significantly increased in sedated turtles with necks and extremities completely extended, compared with values for the same turtles when fully withdrawn into the shell. 22 This protocol achieved deep sedation of all turtles, sufficient to perform the extension of the neck and extremities and the CT scans. Extension of the extremities and neck contributes to increased negative coelomic pressure, leading to expansion of the lungs and inhalation of air.…”

Advances in Reptile Clinical Therapeutics

“…119 A similar thorough review of reptile anesthesia is also available. 12 A number of reports have since been published describing the use of alfaxalone in reptiles. [120][121][122] Alfaxalone is currently a preferred induction agent, when available, and should be used together with analgesic agents and followed by endotracheal intubation, positive pressure ventilation, and gas anesthesia.…”

“…10,11 Giving therapeutic agents in the caudal half of the body is acceptable for a few specific products and may be considered for other drugs when the cranial half is not available. 5,12,13 When giving drugs in the caudal half of a reptile patient 0 s body, dosage is adjusted to account for the renal or hepatic firstpass effect. Intracoelomic administration of fluids or systemic drugs is not recommended.…”