Evaluation of sedation on electroencephalographic spectral edge frequency 95 in dogs sedated by acupuncture at GV20 or Yintang and sedative combination.

The spectral edge frequency (SEF) 95 is one of the electroencephalographic (EEG) parameters, which is a relatively simple and effective method to evaluate a sedative status. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of acupuncture on electroencephalographic SEF 95 in dogs (4.2 - 6.1 kg, 1-2 years old) sedated by a sedative. The acupoints used were the GV20 point and Yintang point. The sedatives used were acepromazine, butorphanol, diazepam, medetomidine, and phenobarbital, each using a different mechanism. The sedation level was assessed by a SEF 95 value under normal conditions, sedation being induced by a sedative, a combination of a sedative and acupuncture, and acupuncture release. During the sedative and acupuncture combination, the SEF 95 values significantly decreased in the butorphanol group. Although this result was just based on the changes of the brain it is suggested that acupuncture, combined with opioids, would be a useful method to produce a safe and deep sedation in clinics.