Effects of sedation with dexmedetomidine-butorphanol and general anesthesia (propofol-isoflurane) on the Feline Grimace Scale scores

The Feline Grimace Scale is a validated tool that uses changes in facial expressions for acute pain assessment in cats. The tool is a valid, reliable, sensitive and specific for feline acute pain recognition for various types of painful conditions (www.felinegrimacescale.com). The aim of this research project is to assess the effects of sedation and general anesthesia on the Feline Grimace Scale scores in cats. Based on our clinical experience, we hypothesize that sedation and general anesthesia will significantly increase the FGS scores when scores are compared with saline (no sedation) or before general anesthesia (controls). This investigation could represent a significant advance in feline pain management, considering the residual effects of sedatives and anesthetics could be a major bias/confounder in pain assessment affecting clinical decisions in feline practice. Indeed, veterinarians do not always know if changes in facial expressions after surgery, for example, are due to pain or the administration of sedatives and anesthetics. This study may provide important insights in the field of pain relief contributing to feline health and welfare.

Faculty Supervisor:

Paulo Steagall

Student:

Partner:

Federal University of Parana

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Education

University:

Université de Montréal

Program: