Evaluation of noninvasive oscillometric blood pressure monitoring in anesthetized boid snakes

Abstract

When using an oscillometric blood pressure monitor on anesthetized boid snakes, veterinarians can potentially monitor changes in blood pressure, although the displayed readings may underestimate DAP and MAP and overestimate SAP. Indirect measurements of blood pressure made with the oscillometric device cannot substitute for direct measurements.

Comparison of an implantable telemetry device and an oscillometric monitor for measurement of blood pressure in anaesthetized and unrestrained green iguanas (Iguana iguana)

“…It has been reported that the same oscillometric device, when used on the tail of anesthetized boid snakes, had a much lower failure rate of 18.2 ± 14.4%. In snakes, the device consistently overestimated SAP, while underestimating DAP and MAP (Chinnadurai et al. 2009).…”

“…The numerical values that are displayed are calculated using a device‐specific algorithm, which is optimized for mammals (Dorsch & Dorsch 2008). NIBP has been evaluated in boid snakes for monitoring trends in blood pressure under anesthesia (Chinnadurai et al. 2009) but has not been objectively examined in lizards.…”

Postembryonic Nephrogenesis and Persistence of Six2-Expressing Nephron Progenitor Cells in the Reptilian Kidney

“…In the American alligator, however, nephrogenesis was robust even in adult animals (Figs 1 and 2 ) and glomerular size did not increase in relation to body length ( Fig 4 E ). Most reptile species have low blood pressure, although some species such as monitor lizards [ 45 ], alligators [ 46 ], and snakes [ 47 ] have relatively high blood pressure compared to other reptiles (some are in the range of human blood pressures). We have identified presence of adult nephrogenesis in boa constrictor and the American alligator, which have recorded blood pressures of 60-120/40-100 mmHg and 75/60 mmHg, respectively [ 46 , 47 ].…”

“…Most reptile species have low blood pressure, although some species such as monitor lizards [ 45 ], alligators [ 46 ], and snakes [ 47 ] have relatively high blood pressure compared to other reptiles (some are in the range of human blood pressures). We have identified presence of adult nephrogenesis in boa constrictor and the American alligator, which have recorded blood pressures of 60-120/40-100 mmHg and 75/60 mmHg, respectively [ 46 , 47 ]. Based upon this data, blood pressure and glomerular filtration rate may not be the driving force determining nephrogenesis versus nephron hypertrophy as the mechanism underlying kidney growth.…”