Comparison of four different protocols using levobupivacaine for spinal anaesthesia in red-footed tortoises...

The popularity of tortoises kept in captivity is increasing and has caused concern regarding the necessity to establish safe and straightforward anaesthesia for those reptiles.

This study aimed to compare four protocols using levobupivacaine in spinal anaesthesia for the blockade of the caudal neuraxis of red-footed tortoises (Chelonoidis carbonarius).

Twenty-four tortoises were randomly assigned into four groups: G1, levobupivacaine 0.75% (1.15 mg kg^-1); G2, levobupivacaine 0.37% (1.15 mg kg^-1); G3, levobupivacaine 0.75% (2.3 mg kg^-1); and G4, levobupivacaine 0.75% (0.1 ml 5 cm^-1 of straight carapace length). Tortoises were evaluated for respiratory rate, muscle relaxation, response to hindlimb or tail pinch, and cloacal reflex.

A 1.15 mg kg^-1 dose of levobupivacaine 0.37% appears adequate for shorter procedures, whereas a 1.15 mg kg^-1 dose of levobupivacaine 0.75% should be appropriate for longer procedures in red-footed tortoises.

Our results are the first to show the effects of levobupivacaine on spinal anaesthesia in reptiles. Weight-based doses presented more intense and more homogeneous effects than carapace length-based doses in red-footed tortoises. Spinal anaesthesia of red-footed tortoises was safe and effective with any of the weight-based protocols.