After a thorough physical exam and electrocardiogram (EKG), anesthesia is induced using the safest anesthetics available. Each patient receives an IV catheter and fluids for the duration of their procedure to maintain adequate blood pressure and to allow easy venous access in case of an emergency. Different anesthetics may be used based on the patient's medical condition. Any necessary hair removal is done outside the surgery suite, on the "prep" table, to reduce the possibility of contamination during surgery. A veterinary assistant monitors the depth of anesthesia and the patient's condition throughout the procedure.
In addition to monitoring by veterinary assistants, patients are monitored by three electronic methods: Pulse oximetry which measures the heart rate and blood oxygen content to ensure the patient is receiving adequate oxygen; electrocardiography to detect any heart beat abnormalities; and blood pressure monitoring. These help to detect subtle changes that may occur during anesthesia.
Our surgery suite is completely enclosed and separated from other areas of the hospital. This greatly reduces risk of infection during surgery. Our surgery table is HEATED to help reduce the risk of hypothermia, a common result of prolonged anesthesia and surgery. Those of you who have had surgery may remember how cold you felt after awakening. The gas anesthesia machine delivers "Isoflurane", one of the safest known gas anesthetics. All materials used in surgery are either gas or steam sterilized. Every precaution is taken to reduce the risk of infection during surgery. Watson Pet Hospital works hard to use experience that has proven to work well along with the newest procedures recommended by specialists in order to provide the best care for your pet.