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Crimped monofilament nylon leader for median sternotomy closure in 10 dogs
Matteo Rossanese1,2, Andrew Tomlinson2
1Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom.
Objective:
To describe and report the outcomes after closure of median sternotomies with crimped monofilament nylon leader (MNL) in dogs.
Study Design:
Retrospective observational study.
Animals:
Dogs (n = 10) that underwent intrathoracic surgery through a median sternotomy approach.
Methods:
The median sternotomy was closed in a peristernal figure eight pattern with crimped MNL. Medical records were reviewed for clinical and histopathological findings and complications. Owners or veterinarians were contacted to collect long-term follow-up information.
Results:
The technique was simple, with no intraoperative complications. Postoperative infection was documented in one dog, requiring removal of a single MNL and associated crimp clamp. Delayed healing of the surgical incision in one dog was managed conservatively. No other complications were documented throughout long-term follow-up at a median of 488 days (range, 199-608).
Conclusion:
Median sternotomies were successfully closed with crimped MNL and were associated with a low complication rate.
Clinical Significance:
Crimped MNL represents an alternative method to close median sternotomies in dogs.
