Suspected severe post-anaesthetic myopathy or myelopathy in a Clydesdale horse resulting in euthanasia

Lloyd, F., Dixon, C. , Kropf, J., Murison, P. and Bellitto, N. (2022) Suspected severe post-anaesthetic myopathy or myelopathy in a Clydesdale horse resulting in euthanasia. Veterinary Record Case Reports, 10(3), e391. (doi: 10.1002/vrc2.391)

Abstract

This case report describes suspected myopathy or myelopathy in a 5-year-old Clydesdale gelding following general anaesthesia for sarcoid removal. The lowest mean arterial pressure was 67 mm Hg. Hyperlactataemia and tachycardia were observed during anaesthesia prompting abortion of surgery. The horse was unable to stand with assistance from a specialised sling. Azotaemia and hyperkalaemia developed in recovery and worsened despite therapeutic interventions. Euthanasia was performed given the grave prognosis. Post-mortem examination was not carried out but could have provided a definitive diagnosis. Specific factors have been identified in the prevention of post-anaesthetic myopathy, including maintenance of adequate tissue perfusion and oxygenation and careful positioning. Potential improvements in the anaesthetic management of this case in relation to these factors are discussed.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Murison, Professor Pamela and Dixon, Dr Claire and Bellitto, Dr Nicholas and Robertson, Mrs Josephine and Lloyd, Ffion
• Authors: Lloyd, F., Dixon, C., Kropf, J., Murison, P., and Bellitto, N.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
• Journal Name: Veterinary Record Case Reports
• Publisher: Wiley
• ISSN: 2052-6121
• ISSN (Online): 2052-6121
• Published Online: 21 May 2022
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2022 The Authors
• First Published: First published in Veterinary Record Case Reports 10(3): e391
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons licence