Comparison of lactated and acetated Ringer's solutions in horses undergoing general inhalation anesthesia

Abstract

Effects of lactated and acetated Ringer's solutions on metabolism and circulatory functions were compared in horses undergoing general inhalation anesthesia. Seven healthy, mature thoroughbred horses were used in this study. Following sedation, the horses were laid on their side and intubated, with anesthesia being maintained by inhalation of halothane-oxygen mixture for three hours. A lactated Ringer's solution was intravenously infused at a rate of 10 ml/kg/hr for three hours. Subsequently, the same horses were infused with acetated Ringer's solution under the same conditions. Study parameters included mean arterial blood pressure, blood lactic acid level, arterial blood pH, arterial blood PaCO₂, HCO₃, anesthesia score, and recovery score. Lactic acid levels were higher following the lactated Ringer's solution infusion. Therefore, acetated Ringer's solution was considered more effective for horses during the perioperative period, since there isa reduced buildup of lactic acid (acidic substance).