Cardiorespiratory effects of epidural anesthesia using lidocaine with morphine or dexmedetomidine in capuchin monkeys (Sapajus sp.) undergoing bilateral tubal ligation surgery, anesthetized with isoflurane.

Background: Epidural anesthesia is indicated to decrease other anesthetic requirements, prolong analgesia, and reduce side effects. In primates, its use has been scarcely described. The aim was to evaluate the cardiorespiratory effects of epidural anesthesia with lidocaine and dexmedetomidine (DEX) or morphine (MOR).

Methods: Ten female capuchin monkeys (Sapajus sp.) received epidural anesthesia with lidocaine and DEX or MOR under general anesthesia.

Results: There was a significant decrease in heart rate with DEX and in blood pressure in all groups, with no changes in SpO . There was a significant reduction in rectal temperature over time. A stable cardiac rhythm was observed; however, there was a prolonged QT interval with DEX.

Conclusions: Epidural anesthesia with access to the lumbosacral space was safe and easy to perform. DEX decreased heart rate. All groups promoted a decrease in rectal temperature with respiratory and cardiac rhythm stability; however, hypotension should be considered.