Anesthetic effects of isoflurane and fentanyl infusion in capuchin monkeys (Sapajus sp) undergoing salpingectomy or deferentectomy, previously chemically restrained with ketamine-midazolam or ketamine-dexmedetomidine.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the anesthetic and cardiorespiratory effects of two anesthetic protocols for salpingectomy or deferentectomy in capuchin monkeys (Sapajus sp).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five capuchin monkeys (5 per group) received ketamine (20 mg/kg) combined with midazolam (0.5 mg/kg; group KM) or dexmedetomidine (5 μg/kg; group KD) intramuscularly. Anesthesia is induced with propofol intravenously and maintained with isoflurane. Before the start of surgery, fentanyl 3 μg/kg was administered IV, and continuous infusion (10 μg/kg/min) IV was started. Times and quality of anesthetic recovery were evaluated postoperatively.

RESULTS: KM and KD resulted in adequate chemical restraint. KD resulted in bradycardia. Intraoperative heart rate and systolic blood pressure were higher in KM than in KD. Both groups had smooth recovery. Time to standing was longer in KM than in KD.

CONCLUSION: Both protocols allowed the performance of surgeries, with few cardiorespiratory effects. Anesthetic recovery was smooth and shorter in KD group.