Inguinal enterocutaneous fistula in a dog

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Surgery
• Canine Gastroenterology

Background:

• Enterocutaneous fistulas are abnormal connections between the gastrointestinal tract and the skin.
• Inguinal enterocutaneous fistulas are exceptionally rare in veterinary medicine.

Observation:

• A two-year-old Jack Russell terrier presented with chronic weight loss and a discharging left inguinal wound.
• Diagnostic imaging confirmed an enterocutaneous fistula, and the dog subsequently developed septic peritonitis and abdominal pain.

Findings:

• Exploratory celiotomy revealed septic peritonitis and jejunal adhesion to the inguinal canal.
• Surgical resection of the affected jejunum with end-to-end anastomosis and open wound drainage led to successful healing.
• The dog recovered fully, though testicular atrophy necessitated castration.

Implications:

• This report describes the first known veterinary case of an inguinal enterocutaneous fistula.
• Successful surgical management highlights the viability of intervention for this rare condition.
• The case underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and surgical treatment for complex abdominal and inguinal pathologies in dogs.