Updates on Anesthesia for Non-obstetric and Obstetric Surgery During Pregnancy

Abstract
Cesarean sections are a common procedure in veterinary medicine and specific anesthesia techniques have been recommended. Anesthesia for non-obstetric surgery during pregnancy is very rare. Independent of the purpose, anesthesia principles are going to be fairly similar although anesthesia for non-obstetric surgery includes special considerations like teratogenicity of compounds used, prevention of premature labor, and avoidance of fetal asphyxia. These concerns make anesthesia for the gravid animal a unique and problematic situation for the veterinarian. The main objective is to provide the safest possible anesthetic to the mother while preserving fetus safety. This review focuses on fundamental maternal physiological principles, core to the adequate care of pregnant mothers and fetuses, and reviews the most recent literature on the subject to provide tips and recommendations for the veterinarian whenever this challenging clinical scenario arises. [...]