The equine colic is a syndrome that leads to abdominal pain, hydroeletrolitic and acid-base disturbances and functional alterations of the vital organs like lungs and heart. Anesthetic procedures in these animals show certain particularities that elevate the complications risk. The animals should be evaluated at the preanesthetic period and the reposition treatments should be done as necessary. The premeds should give analgesia and sedation to the animal. Xylazina and/or butorphanol may be used to this aim. Induction can be done with guaiacol glycerine ether, ketamine with/without diazepam, or even with ketamine and diazepam by the intravenous route. Isoflurane is the anesthetic of choice for the maintenance of the anesthesia, but halothane also can be used. Intermitent positive pressure ventilation should be established, with the animal receiving 100% oxygen throughout the surgical period and the imediate postoperatory period. Recovery should be done in a darkness and calm environment, with soft and not slippery floor. Analgesia and oxygen therapy also are important during this stage.
anesthesia; equine; colic; xylazine; butorphanol; ketamine; halothane; isoflurane
