The Random Anesthesia Topic podcast
A monthly podcast about veterinary anesthesia, hosted by three veterinary anesthesiologists. Each episode picks a random topic in anesthesia and blends education with lighthearted discussion and stories. It is aimed at veterinary professionals, pet owners, and anyone curious about animal care. The show covers practical anesthesia practices and current topics in the field.
Episodes
S2E5. - Evidence vs. Reality: Does the Literature Hold Up?
How much should we trust the veterinary literature? What happens when the evidence doesn’t quite fit the patient in front of us? In this episode, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists dives into evidence-based medicine, the strengths and limitations of veterinary research, and how to critically evaluate what a study actually tells us. We explore the challenges of small sample sizes, conflicting
S2E4 - Sugar, Hormones & Electrolytes: When Anesthesia Gets Complicated
What do diabetes, endocrine disease, and electrolyte imbalances have in common? They can all make anesthesia a little more interesting! In this episode, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists dives into the challenges of anesthetizing patients with diabetes, endocrine disorders, and abnormal electrolytes. We discuss what these conditions mean for anesthetic planning, which abnormalities should m
Special Ep 7 - Raising the Bar: Anesthesia Standards in General Practice
Not all veterinary hospitals approach anesthesia the same way—and that can have a major impact on patient care. In this episode, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists is joined by Dr. Natalie McShane, owner of East Side Animal Hospital, for an honest discussion about anesthesia in general practice. We explore why the level of anesthetic care can vary significantly between clinics, the challenge
S2E3 - The Take-Home Side of Pain Management
What happens after the patient goes home? In this episode, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists dives into oral pain medications, and the realities of keeping pets comfortable outside the hospital. We discuss common go-home medications, multimodal pain strategies, compliance challenges, side effects, and how treatment plans are tailored to different patients and conditions. Practical, approach
Special Ep6 - Pain, Performance, and Recovery: Where Rehab Meets Anesthesia
What happens when veterinary rehabilitation and anesthesia team up? In this episode, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists is joined by Dr. Leilani Alvarez, board-certified in Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation from the Animal Medical Center in New York City. We talk chronic pain, agility dogs, and the powerful overlap between rehab medicine and anesthesia care. We also dive into modern pain
S2E2 - Premeds & Pressure Points: GV20, IM vs. IV, and Beyond
In this episode, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists explores a mix of practical and thought-provoking anesthesia topics—from the acupuncture point GV20 to the ongoing debate of IM versus IV premedication. We break down when each approach might shine, what the evidence (and experience) suggests, and how these choices can impact patient management. Expect thoughtful discussion, a few clinical
Special Ep5 - Anesthesia Under the Microscope: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly
In this episode, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists welcomes Adam Christman, DVM, MBA to unpack public misconceptions about anesthesia. From gaps in veterinary training to communication challenges with clients, we explore what’s driving the anxiety—and how we can shift the narrative. Honest, practical, and a little provocative, this conversation tackles the confidence gap head-on.
S2E1 - Never Have I Ever… (Anesthesia Edition)
In this candid and slightly nerve-wracking episode, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists plays a round of “Never Have I Ever” — anesthesia style. From close calls and clinical missteps to the tough questions we don’t always talk about, nothing is off the table. Join us as we share lessons learned, humbling moments, and honest reflections that remind us all: in anesthesia (and in life), growth
Special Ep4 - Veterinary Patients vs. Humans: Anesthesia Across the Divide
In this episode, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists welcomes back human anesthesiologist Dr. Mika Hamilton for a candid, cross-species comparison of anesthesia care. We explore how human and veterinary teams approach pulmonary hypertension, the monitoring tools each relies on, and how availability, training, and patient factors shape real-world decision-making. From advanced invasive monitor
S1E10 - Don't Hold Your Breath – Mechanical Ventilation 101 (Part 2)
In this second installment of our two-part series, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists takes a deep breath and dives into the more complex issues of mechanical ventilation. We turn up the pressure and tackle the trickier side of mechanical ventilation. Whether you’re new to the concept or need a refresher, this episode will help you breathe easier about ventilator basics—without leaving you g
Special Ep3 - From People to Poodles: Cross-Species Anesthesia Adventures
Ever wondered how putting a person under stacks up against anesthetizing a poodle? In this special episode, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists welcomes human anesthesiologist Dr. Mika Hamilton to the show! Together we compare the worlds of human and veterinary anesthesia—where they overlap, where they diverge, and the funny surprises in between. From monitoring gadgets to patient cooperation
S1E9 - Don't Hold Your Breath – Mechanical Ventilation 101 (Part 1)
In this first installment of our two-part series, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists takes a deep breath and dives into the fundamentals of mechanical ventilation. We break down the “why” and “when” of using a ventilator, explore key terminology, and discuss the most common ventilation modes you’ll encounter in veterinary practice. Whether you’re new to the concept or need a refresher, this
Special Ep2 - Broken Hearts: Anesthesia Meets Cardiology
In this special episode, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists is joined by a renowned veterinary cardiologist for an unforgettable deep dive into the world of anesthetizing patients with heart disease. From murmurs to heart failure, we unpack the art and science of safely managing cardiac patients under anesthesia. Expect clinical pearls, real-world case banter, and a healthy dose of humor as
S1E8 - Busted! Anesthesia Myths, Dogmas & Half-Truths
Think everything you’ve heard about MDR1 mutations and anesthesia is gospel? Still worried about hyperkalemia in greyhounds or debating fluid rates like it’s 2005? In this episode, our anesthesia trio takes on some of the most persistent myths and dogmas in veterinary anesthesia. From rebreathing vs. non-rebreathing circuits to breed-based panic and outdated fluid protocols, we separate fact from
Special Ep1 - Chill out: When Behavior Meets Anesthesia
In this unique episode of the Random Anesthesia Topic podcast, we’re joined by a board-certified veterinary behaviorist for a dynamic conversation with our trio of anesthesiologists. We explore the fascinating intersections of behavior and anesthesia—discussing drug overlaps, anxiolytics, the ever-popular "chill protocol," and the nuanced use of gabapentin. Whether you're managing pre-op anxiety o
S1E7 - Must-haves: Desert Island Anesthesia Essentials
In this episode of the Random Anesthesia Topic podcast, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists faces the ultimate hypothetical: What drug, piece of equipment, and training would you bring to a desert island?From must-have meds to life-saving monitors, we explore what really matters when resources are limited. We also dive into what we believe is the most essential training for anyone assisting w
S1E6 - Lidocaine: Because Feeling is Overrated
In this episode of Random Anesthesia Topic, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists takes a deep dive into lidocaine — a versatile drug in anesthesia and pain management. We explore its many roles, from local anesthesia and systemic analgesia to its anti-arrhythmic and pro-kinetic effects. How does lidocaine fit into multimodal pain management? When should (or shouldn’t) you use it in dogs, cats,
S1E5 - Gastro-protectants: Keeping it Down Under Anesthesia
In this episode of Random Anesthesia Topic, our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists dives into the world of gastroprotectants in peri-operative care. We explore how these medications help prevent vomiting, nausea, and other gastrointestinal complications during anesthesia. From discussing common gastroprotectants like maropitant, ondansetron, and famotidine to sharing practical tips on when and h
S1E4 - Tackling Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Cats
In this episode of Random Anesthesia Topic, we delve into the intricacies of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the most common feline heart disease. Our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists breaks down the challenges and considerations of managing anesthesia in cats with HCM. From understanding how this condition affects anesthetic management to navigating anesthesia protocols that keep our felin
S1E3 - Total Intravenous Anesthesia, the Holy Grail?
In this episode our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists unpacks the benefits, challenges, and species-specific considerations of Total Intravenous Anesthesia (TIVA), shedding light on its practical applications in both routine and complex procedures. From the pharmacology behind the drugs used to the real-life stories from our own cases, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Whether you'
S1E2 - The Ketamine Dilemma
This month on the Random Anesthesia Topic podcast, we're excited to dive into the fascinating subject of ketamine! Join our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists as we explore ketamine’s unique role in managing chronic pain and its applications in anesthesia. From the latest research to our own clinical experiences, we’ll break down how ketamine can be a valuable tool for both pain management and a
S1E1 - The Great Fluid Debate
This month on the Random Anesthesia Topic podcast, we dive into the essential topic of fluid boluses for treating hypotension. Join our trio of veterinary anesthesiologists as we explore the nuances of fluid therapy, share our personal experiences, and debunk some common myths. Whether you’re a seasoned vet or a curious pet owner, you’ll gain valuable insights into why fluid management is critical
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