ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to clinically verify the dispersion of lidocaine in the epidural space of dogs placed in different positions. Sixteen dogs with an average weight of 17.5 kilograms were used. These were tranquilized with acepromazine, anesthetized with propofol and allocated to two groups: sternal decubitus (GE) and right lateral decubitus (GLD). Both groups received 2% of lidocaine in the volume of 0.25mL/kg and remained in the same position for 20 minutes. The blocking of the pelvic limbs and the extension of it from the seventh lumbar vertebra were evaluated by means of interdigital and paravertebral panniculus clamping. Orchiectomy surgery was then performed. Afterwards, the total blocking time of the pelvic limbs was evaluated. All dogs presented bilateral blocking, with no differences in cranial extension between groups, with a median of 7.5 (1-14) vertebrae for GE and 4 (1-14) for GLD. The blocking time of the right and left limbs were 123 ± 26 and 130 ± 20 minutes for GE, and 120 ± 21 and 121 ± 20 minutes for GLD with no difference between groups or between limbs. It is concluded that the decubitus does not interfere with the epidural lidocaine distribution.
Keywords:
local anesthetic; peridural; canine