Valutazione di due protocolli anestesiologici con dexmedetomidina nel taglio cesareo: uno studio retrospettivo sulla sopravvivenza e sulla vitalità neonatale nella specie canina

Neonatology is a branch of pediatrics that deals with physiology and neonatal problems and diseases because it prioritizes neonatal adaptation, fetal survival, and health (Veronesi et al., 2013). The mortality rate in the neonatal period, i.e., within the first 3-4 weeks of life, ranges from 2% to 30%, with the highest incidence (50%) occurring within the first three days of life (Veronesi et al., 2013). Among the causes of perinatal mortality, parturition and its abnormalities (dystocia) are one of the most important causes of puppy loss. Dystocia is defined as abnormal, slow, or difficult birth due to maternal or fetal factors or a combination of both. In the case of dystocia, veterinary intervention is required through manual, medical or surgical procedures. Cesarean section (C-section) is the surgical approach to dystocia when physical obstructions are present, in case of medical or manual treatment failures, or when fetal distress requires immediate resolution (England et al., 2010). After dystocia and C-section, fetal depression easily occurs due to hypoxia (the most important cause) and the effect of anesthetics administered to the dam (Traas, 2008). Considering the importance of the anesthetic protocol during C- section for the dam and the pups, the aim of this study is to perform a retrospective analysis of two different anesthetic protocols used in two private practices. Despite the numerous differences between the two protocols, this dissertation aims to focus on the use of dexmedetomidine, an alpha-2 agonist used for premedication before cesarean section, due to decrease the amount of induction agent and to provide analgesia before of the surgery. Since this molecule has not been recommended for many years due to its cardiovascular and respiratory effects, the purpose of this work is to demonstrate the safety of this drug for pup viability and survival. The survival rate and viability of a total of 1213 pups from 203 C- section were analyzed. A survival rate of 100% and good viability of the pups in both protocols were found. Based on the data analyzed in this study, it can be confirmed that dexmedetomidine can be a safe agent for premedication of C- section that does not affect the viability and survival rate of the newborn pups, without negative effects on the dams.