Postural influence on systemic blood pressure in large full-term pregnant bitches during general anesthesia

Effects of positioning on systemic blood pressure were evaluated in six full-term pregnant golden retriever bitches during general anesthesia. Two positions (dorsal and left lateral recumbency) were examined. Anesthesia was induced with thiamylal sodium and maintained with halothane in oxygen. Direct arterial blood pressures were recorded from the bitches in each position. Effects of positioning for each bitch during general anesthesia were reexamined after the bitch weaned its pups; thus, each bitch served as its own control. Maternal posture had no significant effect (p greater than 0.05) on systemic blood pressure. Pregnancy had no significant effect (p greater than 0.05) on systemic blood pressure. Supine hypotension did not occur in anesthetized large, full-term pregnant bitches. Dorsal recumbency was an acceptable position for cesarean sections performed with the patient under general anesthesia.