ABSTRACT
Management of anesthesia in any species requires proper planning, implementation, and resources to ensure a humane and successful outcome. When working with rodents, it becomes especially critical to consider species-specific physiology when planning the appropriate anesthetic and analgesic methodology to be used. The management of any anesthetic event can be organized into three basic periods: preanesthetic, perianesthetic, and postanesthetic. This chapter covers all three of these unique periods with specific details relating to the proper planning and implementation of rodent anesthesia (Table 4.1). Chapter Terminology
Anesthetic event
The anesthetic event describes the process of planning and delivering anesthesia for a specific purpose (i.e., surgery, restraint).
Anesthetic/analgesic plan
An anesthetic plan defines the protocol of anesthesia and analgesia to be followed during the entire anesthetic event. This plan is specific to the animals that have been evaluated and should be updated each time an assessment or modification is made.
Preanesthetic period
The preanesthetic period describes the time frame prior to the delivery of any anesthetic. This period represents the largest portion of effort due to the proper planning and implementation necessary for a successful outcome.
Perianesthetic period
The perianesthetic period describes the time frame that the animal is undergoing anesthesia. This includes the use of preanesthetics and the induction, maintenance, and monitoring of anesthesia.
Postanesthetic period
The postanesthetic period describes the time frame after anesthesia has concluded and the animal is recovering. The focus of this period is proper supportive care, pain assessment, and analgesia support to assure the animal returns to its preanesthetic physiologic state.
