The incidence of post-anaesthetic myopathy with the use of a static air mattress

Abstract

The effect of a static air mattress on the incidence of post-anaesthetic myopathy was studied. It is generally assumed that pressure on the muscles will result in an impairment of the circulation, creating an ischaemic condition and cause post-anaesthetic myopathy. An adequate muscular perfusion is maintained by careful positioning of the patient and paying attention to the surface on which the horse lies. As human literature, based on the evaluation of CT-scans of subjects supported by various types of beddings indicate, that the use of a static air mattress results in a significant reduction of compression and may result in lower incidence of ulcers, this type of mattres was selected to be tested for use in horses. In 1995 1349 horses were anaesthesized with an average anaesthesia time of 98 min. Twelve (0.9%) horses had problems with the recovery because of myopathy. Nine limbs (0.7%) concerned the underside of the horse during anaesthesia.