Risks of Anesthesia for Dog Endoscopy: What You Need to

Conventional endoscopic procedures in dogs can lead to respiratory disturbances, arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, myocardial infarction, and intense struggle behaviors due to throat irritation and the pulling of gastrointestinal tubes. During the procedure, the dog may experience discomfort and anxiety. However, under anesthesia, endoscopic procedures can eliminate these factors, making the procedure smoother. Despite this, there are several potential risks associated with anesthetic endoscopy:

Nursing Risks and Countermeasures:

1. Leakage or detachment at the intravenous injection site, along with bleeding, can occur. This is often due to the dog being in a semisleep state during anesthesia or suddenly waking up during the procedure due to stimulation. If the device is dislodged before the procedure, it may prevent the endoscope from being inserted, necessitating a full anesthetic and the lifting of the jaw to secure the device in the mouth. During the procedure, dislodgment can easily damage the endoscope. If there is a suspicion of damage, it is crucial to check for leaks and send the device for repair promptly.

2. The most common issue is the dog biting and spitting out the device, which is often due to the dog being in a semiconscious state during anesthesia or suddenly waking up during the procedure. If the device is dislodged before the procedure, it can prevent the endoscope from being inserted, requiring a full anesthetic and the lifting of the jaw to secure the device in the mouth. During the procedure, dislodgment can easily damage the endoscope. If there is a suspicion of damage, it is crucial to check for leaks and send the device for repair promptly.

3. Falling or injury can occur primarily due to the dog being semiconscious and lacking awareness after anesthesia. Wearing a safety harness can prevent falls.

Anesthesia Management Risks and Countermeasures:

Respiratory depression is the most common risk during anesthetic endoscopy, characterized by slow, weak, or stopped breathing, cyanosis of the mucous membranes, and a progressive decline in pulse oxygen saturation. Pulse oxygen saturation primarily represents lung ventilation function and may not be sensitive in the early stages of hyperventilation. A decline in pulse oxygen saturation indicates a significant decrease in ventilation function. During the procedure, the operating doctor should closely monitor the mucosal color and take timely action.

Endoscopic Procedure Risks and Countermeasures:

1. Stimulation of the throat and airway: Rapid insertion, rough technique, or inadequate anesthesia can stimulate the throat or larynx, leading to coughing, aspiration, or severe laryngospasm.

2. Damage to the throat and gastrointestinal mucosa: This can manifest as mucosal and muscular layer tears or bleeding, often due to the stomach bottom being a turning and supporting point for the endoscope. When the ballshaped end of the endoscope severely deforms, it may not be able to enter the descending part, causing increased insertion force. Damage can also occur if the endoscope is inserted incorrectly while rotating to observe the stomach bottom. Titanium clips or soft tissue clips can be used to close the wound and prevent bleeding or perforation.

3. Abdominal gas accumulation: This is primarily due to excessive inflation during the procedure in cases of ulcer perforation, causing gas to enter the abdominal cavity through the perforation. In severe cases, this can lead to respiratory and circulatory disturbances, threatening the patient's life. Immediate puncture and aspiration to reduce pressure can minimize the adverse effects on respiration and circulation.

4. Mandibular joint dislocation: This is mainly due to the relaxation of the mandibular joint after anesthesia. To realign the joint, gently push and pull the lower jaws downwards and backwards.

Comprehensive nursing coordination, thorough preprocedure preparation, strict anesthesia management, skilled endoscopic technique, and a diligent work attitude are essential for the successful completion of anesthetic endoscopy. By carefully implementing each operational step, we can effectively reduce the dosage of anesthetic drugs, shorten the anesthetic time, and ensure the safety of the anesthesia.