Pulsed inhaled Nitric Oxide - a possible way to treat hypoxemia in colic horses during abdominal surgery

Abstract: The aim of the present study was to evaluate if pulsed inhaled nitric oxide (PiNO) could be used as a treatment for hypoxemia during general anaesthesia in colic horses. Previous studies have shown a positive response in horses receiving PiNO in comparison to controls, but these studies have only included healthy individuals. A total of 30 horses were included in this present study, they all underwent abdominal surgery because of acute colic that could not be medically treated. Fifteen of the horses received PiNO and 15 horses served as a control group. Arterial oxygenation was improved in all horses receiving PiNO. PaO2, SaO2, CaO2 and P(A-a)O2 increased as a result of a decrease in right to left vascular-shunt (Qs/Qt) due to the inhalation of NO. The conclusion is that PiNO is an effective way to treat hypoxemia in colic horses undergoing abdominal surgery.