Successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation in a sevoflurane anaesthetized horse that suffered cardiac arrest at recovery

Abstract

A 17-year-old mare undergoing dental surgery suffered a cardiac arrest while being transferred from the surgical theatre to the recovery box. This complication was diagnosed early, thus allowing a prompt start to the cardiopulmonary resuscitation maneuvers. External thoracic compressions, intermittent positive pressure ventilation, and adrenaline administration were at the core of this successful resuscitation. Although it was not possible to confirm the cause of cardiac arrest in this horse, a Bezold-Jarisch reflex due to potential decrease on venous return because of postural change and drug interactions was hypothesized. Based on this report, it appears advisable to smoothly change the position of anaesthetized patient; furthermore, the administration of drugs affecting cardiovascular hemodynamics or sympatho-vagal balance to animals while changing their recumbency should be avoided.