Evaluation of anaesthetic depth and cardiopulmonary effects of propofol infusion rate in Sapajus apella previously chemically contained with dextroketamine‐midazolam

Background This study evaluated the cardiopulmonary effects and anaesthetic depth induced by a propofol infusion rate of 0.8 mg/kg/min in monkeys (Sapajus apella). Materials and methods Five capuchin monkeys received dextroketamine‐midazolam intramuscularly. After a maximum duration of 5 min, the values of the physiological parameters were recorded, and a venous catheter was placed. After recovery from chemical restraint, the animals were anaesthetized with propofol intravenously, which was maintained for 1 h. Physiological parameters, anaesthetic depth, the time and quality of anaesthetic recovery were evaluated. Results Heart and respiratory rates, systolic blood pressure and rectal temperature during propofol infusion were lower than those during anaesthesia induction with dextroketamine‐midazolam. Unconsciousness, muscle relaxation and lack of response to tail clamping were observed during propofol infusion. No animals showed excitement or vocalization during anaesthetic recovery. Conclusion Propofol infusion rate of 0.8 mg/kg/min promoted surgical general anaesthesia, with transient hypotension, which showed excellent anaesthetic recovery.