Oxygenation in medetomidine-sedated dogs with and without 100% oxygen insufflation.

Oxygenation status was evaluated in medetomidine-sedated dogs breathing room air (M) or 100% oxygen (MO2). Medetomidine (40 μg/kg IV) administration resulted in peripheral vasoconstriction and decreased venous saturation as measured by an increased oxygen extraction ratio in peripheral tissues. Providing 100% oxygen insufflation via face mask reduced desaturation by increasing oxygen content but did not prevent vasoconstriction or reduce the oxygen extraction ratio in peripheral tissues. Atipamezole (200 μg/kg IV) reversed medetomidine-induced vasoconstriction and increased oxygen supply to tissues as indicated by a lower tissue oxygen extraction ratio. The authors conclude that 100% oxygen insufflation via face mask during medetomidine sedation (40 μg/kg IV) benefits tissue oxygenation in healthy dogs. Oxygenation in Medetomidine-Sedated Dogs with and without 100% Oxygen Insufflation