Anesthetic consideration in dogs with traumatic myocarditis

The trauma patient is commonly encountered in veterinary practice. Traumatic myocarditis has often been overlooked due to its delayed onset and preoccupation with other traumatic problems. The traumatic heart is very sensitive and in itself can cause death. Often a trauma patient requires surgery and a proper anesthetic protocol must be used which does not increase the incidence of cardiac arrhythmias. A review of anesthetic management including preanesthetic medications, induction drugs and techniques and maintenance with inhalation anesthesia reveals the need for careful selection of medications. Isoflurane was shown to be beneficial in reducing the incidence of undesirable responses of these patients.