Rhinitis following intraoperative gastro-oesophageal reflux in a dog

Abstract

A four-month-old, male dog underwent surgical repair of femoral and pelvic fracture. The dog was premedicated with acepromazine combined with morphine; anaesthesia was induced with propofol to effect and maintained with isoflurane in 100 per cent oxygen. One hour after induction the dog regurgitated and gastric contents emerged through the nares. At the end of the surgery rhinoscopy and oesophagoscopy were performed. The oesophageal mucosa was apparently normal, while posterior and retrograde rhinoscopy revealed diffused hyperaemia and oedema of the nasal cavity and nasopharyngeal mucosa; food particles and moderate amount of mucous exudates were also seen. Copious lavage was performed, and administration of antibiotics, metoclopramide, cimetidine and sucralfate was initiated. Nasal mucosa was re-evaluated four days later. No abnormalities were detected in both nasal cavities and nasopharynx. The development of rhinitis following regurgitation during anaesthesia should be considered as a possible complication. © British Veterinary Association 2019. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.