| How Your Pet is Prepared for Surgery |
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Anesthesia is necessary to prevent any perception of pain and any memory of a painful and stressful procedure. Anesthesia is also important to prevent undesirable movement during a procedure. Unfortunately, the drugs used for this purpose will also depress normal function of the heart and lungs. Because of this risk, certain steps are taken before and during anesthesia and surgery to safeguard your pet’s health.
Preoperative blood testing
Blood tests are run to look for any health problems that may increase the risk of anesthesia or result in problems during recovery.
Giving preoperative medication
A sedative is often administered prior to anesthesia. This calms and relaxes the patient so they are not stressed when placed under anesthesia, and less anesthetic medication is needed.
Intravenous catheter placement and fluid support
Intravenous catheter placement and fluid support

Intubation
A tube is placed into the throat once the patient is anesthetized. Oxygen and gas anesthesia are administered through the tube, making it easier to control the depth of anesthesia. The tube also protects the lungs from aspiration.
Monitoring vital signs
Heart rate, heart rhythm, blood pressure, ventilation of the lungs, oxygenation of the blood and temperature are some of the signs watched closely to make sure the patient’s vital functions are not dangerously compromised during anesthesia.
Pre-surgical preparation
All hair is closely clipped from the skin over the area where surgery will occur. The skin is then scrubbed with antiseptic so the surgical field has minimal bacterial contamination.

Creating a sterile environment
Many steps are taken to create a sterile environment in which to perform the surgical procedure. In addition to preparing the patient’s skin, the surgeon will scrub their hands and put on sterile gloves and gown. Sterile drapes are placed around the skin to isolate the surgical site, and all surgical equipment is previously sterilized for use in the procedure.
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