Ultrasound-guided sciatic nerve block in two alpacas (Vicugna pacos) as part of an anaesthesia plan for hindlimb fractures

The present case report describes the management of two alpacas undergoing repair of a metatarsal and a distal tibial fracture, respectively. Both animals received ketamine and medetomidine intramuscularly, resulting in deep sedation. Endotracheal intubation was performed, and general anaesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane. An in-plane ultrasound-guided sciatic nerve block was performed at the level of the mid-thigh with bupivacaine 0.5% before surgery as part of the analgesic treatment. Meloxicam was administered. Heart rate, arterial blood pressure and respiratory rate were stable during the surgery, despite the use of a low end-tidal sevoflurane concentration. No opioids were required intraoperatively. Duration of the anaesthesia was 205 and 255 minutes, respectively. Extubation was performed 12 and 6 minutes after discontinuing sevoflurane administration, respectively. In both cases, regional anaesthesia of the sciatic nerve improved the intraoperative management of alpacas that required surgical treatment for fractures.

Automated summary

The present case report discusses the successful management of two alpacas with metatarsal and distal tibial fractures. Both animals received deep sedation with ketamine and medetomidine followed by endotracheal intubation and maintenance of general anesthesia with sevoflurane. Ultrasound-guided sciatic nerve block with bupivacaine 0.5% was performed for analgesic treatment before surgery. The use of regional anesthesia improved intraoperative management, and no opioids were required during the procedure.