Abstract: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of general anesthesia with Sumianxin vs isoflurane in Burmese python (Python molurus bivittatus). 15 pythons were anesthetized with Sumianxin-Ⅱ (0.1, 0.2, 0.4 mL/kg) i.m. and i.p., 6 pythons were anesthetized with isoflurane inhalation. Analgesic effect, righting reflex, breathing, muscle relaxation, time of anesthesia induction, time of recovery from anesthesia, side effects were recorded. High doses of Sumianxin-Ⅱ which is 2-4 times higher than that used in conventional animals did not show good anesthetic efficacy. In contrast, isoflurane when used 4% for anesthesia induction and 2.5% for maintenance showed satisfactory efficacy with notable advantages of induction rapidly, good anesthetic efficacy, muscle relaxation, high safety, recovery quickly and less side effects etc. Isoflurane inhalation anesthesia can be used clinically in pythons safely and effectively.

Key words: Burmese python; Sumianxin; isoflurane; anesthesia effect