Effect of desmopressin on buccal mucosal bleeding time in healthy dogs.

Abstract

Background: Desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) is used as a hemostatic adjunct because it can improve primary hemostasis and increase Factor VIII- and von Willebrand factor-related variables. However, its effects in dogs under general anesthesia are not well defined.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of DDAVP on buccal mucosal bleeding time (BMBT) in anesthetized healthy dogs and to assess concurrent changes in plasma FVIII antigen (FVIII:Ag).

Methods: Twenty-seven healthy Beagle dogs were randomly assigned to receive intravenous saline (control; n = 8) or DDAVP at 0.6 (n = 7), 1.2 (n = 6), or 1.8 µg/kg (n = 6) under isoflurane anesthesia. The BMBT was measured 30 minutes after administration. Blood samples were collected at baseline and at 30 and 60 minutes to measure FVIII:Ag, complete blood count, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, and electrolytes. Heart rate and arterial blood pressure were recorded at the same time points.

Results: At 30 minutes after administration, the BMBT values were 128.2 (92.1-157.7) seconds in the control group, 105.2 (72.4-122.0) seconds in the 0.6 µg/kg group, 74.1 (58.6-101.8) seconds in the 1.2 µg/kg group, and 47.2 (44.4-76.1) seconds in the 1.8 µg/kg group.BMBT was significantly shorter in the 1.2 and 1.8 µg/kg groups than in the controls, and in the 1.8 µg/kg group than in the 0.6 µg/kg group (p < 0.05). FVIII:Ag levels at 60 minutes were significantly higher in the 1.8 µg/kg group than in the control group (p < 0.05) and increased from baseline to 60 minutes in the 1.2 and 1.8 µg/kg groups (p < 0.05). No other significant differences were detected.

Conclusion: DDAVP dose-dependently shortened BMBT and increased FVIII:Ag in 60 minutes in healthy anesthetized dogs. These findings provide preliminary data and support further investigation of DDAVP in patients undergoing surgery.