Thoracic epidural catheter placement using a paramedian approach with cephalad angulation in three dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To describe a technique for insertion of a thoracic epidural catheter. STUDY
DESIGN: Clinical report. ANIMALS: Dogs (n = 3) undergoing thoracic wall resection and thoracotomy.
METHODS: A paramedian approach with cephalic angulation was used to place a 24-g epidural catheter in 3 dogs. Dogs 1 and 2 had left caudal thoracic wall resection and dog 3 had left thoracotomy. In dog 1, the epidural catheter was inserted at L2-L3 intervertebral space and the tip of the catheter advanced to the level of T13 vertebral body. In dog 2, the epidural catheter was inserted at T12-T13 intervertebral space and the tip of the catheter was advanced to the level of T8 vertebral body. In dog 3, the epidural catheter was inserted at T13-L1 intervertebral space and its tip advanced until reaching the vertebral body of T10. All dogs were administered a combination of bupivacaine and morphine through the epidural catheter to provide intra- and postoperative analgesia.
RESULTS: The peridural space was identified and the tip of the catheter was positioned where intended in all dogs. Dog 1 developed transient Horner's syndrome and dog 3 required intraoperative fentanyl during the first part of the procedure.
CONCLUSION: Paramedian approach with cephalad angulation is a suitable technique to place thoracic epidural catheters in dogs. © Copyright 2012 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.