Abstract
Background:
The popularity of tortoises kept in captivity is increasing and has caused concern regarding the necessity to establish safe and straightforward anesthesia for those reptiles.
Aim:
This study aimed to compare four protocols using levobupivacaine in spinal anesthesia for blockade of the caudal neuraxis of red-footed tortoises (Chelonoidis carbonarius).
Methods:
Twenty-four tortoises were randomly assigned into 4 groups: G1, levobupivacaine 0.75% (1.15 mg kg-1); G2, levobupivacaine 0.37% (1.15 mg kg-1); G3, levobupivacaine 0.75% (2.3 mg kg-1); and G4, levobupivacaine 0.75% (0.1 ml 5 cm-1 of straight carapace length). Tortoises were evaluated for respiratory rate, muscle relaxation, response to hindlimb or tail pinch, and cloacal reflex.
Results:
A 1.15 mg kg-1 dose of levobupivacaine 0.37% appears adequate for shorter procedures, whereas a 1.15 mg kg-1 dose of levobupivacaine 0.75% should be appropriate for longer procedures in red-footed tortoises.
Conclusion:
Our results are the first to show the effects of levobupivacaine for spinal anesthesia in reptiles. Weight-based doses presented more intense and more homogeneous effects than carapace length-based dose in red-footed tortoises. Spinal anesthesia of red-footed tortoises was safe and effective with any of the weight-based protocols.

Key words: Testudines, Loco-regional anesthesia, Neuraxis blockade, Local anesthetics, Reptiles