Inhalants:

Inhalants can be useful for longer procedures and should be opted for when performing ovariohysterectomies (OHE) or any other abdominal surgeries. Endotracheal intubation and masks are both valid options. There is an increased risk of human exposure to the inhalant with a mask, so for longer procedures, intubation is recommended. Masking a pig down with inhalant anesthesia can be useful for short procedures but injectable sedation prior to masking is advised. ULAM recommends induction rates of isoflurane at 2-4% with maintenance at 1.2-2%.[1]

Porcine Stress Syndrome (PSS), malignant hyperthermia, and transport myopathy are all terms regarding the same genetically transmitted condition in pigs. It is often triggered by stress or excitement (this is relevant in the physical restraint section as well) but can also be triggered by certain anesthetics such as isoflurane. Isoflurane related malignant hyperthermia is more common in Landrace, Pietrain, and Portland China breeds. Signs include respiratory distress, hyperthermia, blotchy dermal hyperemia, tail, back or leg muscle tremors, respiratory distress, inability to walk, muscle rigidity, acute right sided heart failure, and death.[2]

Recovery

Pigs should be placed in sternal recumbency for recovery. Similar to cats and dogs, the ET tube should be kept in place until adequate signs of laryngeal control are noted. Oxygen supplementation should be provided via a mask, even after the ET tube has been removed. The oxygen should be provided until the pig is fully awake, especially in more brachycephalic breeds. Hypothermia is another major concern during both anesthesia and recovery. Temperature should be monitored throughout anesthesia and recovery.