Clinicophysiological and haemodynamic effects of fentanyl with medetomidine in halothane and isoflurane anaesthetized water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)

Fentanyl (5 μg/kg) and medetomidine (2.5 μg/kg) were administered in six water buffaloes twice at weekly interval. Anaesthesia was induced by 5% thiopental and maintained by halothane (2%) (group H) and by isoflurane (2%) (group I) with 100% oxygen through a large animal anaesthesia machine. Fentanyl and medetomidine produced depression of cardiovascular system during preanaesthetic period which was moderated in the post-induction and during maintenance period. Quicker recovery was recorded in group I. Maintenance dose of halothane and isoflurane were 38.50±7.35 mL and 48.00±6.38 mL, respectively. Better anaesthesia was recorded in group I than group H. Cardio-pulmonary functions were well preserved during maintenance anaesthesia in group I. None of the drug combination produced any deleterious effect on vital organ functions and was found safe in buffaloes.