Intestinal dehiscence and mortality in cats undergoing gastrointestinal surgery

The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of and risk factors for both gastrointestinal (GI) incisional dehiscence and mortality in a large cohort of cats undergoing GI surgery. We hypothesized that cats with preoperative septic peritonitis (PSP), systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) or sepsis would have higher GI dehiscence and mortality rates than unaffected cats.

A medical records search identified cats with surgically created, full-thickness incisions into their stomach, small intestines or large intestines. Preoperative data, including signalment, clinical signs, comorbidities, surgical history, current medications, presenting physical examination findings, complete blood counts and serum biochemistry values, were collected. It was determined whether or not cats had PSP, SIRS or sepsis at admission. Intraoperative data, final diagnosis and postoperative variables such as vital parameters, bloodwork and (if applicable) the development of GI dehiscence or mortality were noted. Postoperative follow-up of at least 10 days was obtained in survivors.

In total, 126 cats were included. One cat developed GI dehiscence following complete resection of a jejunal adenocarcinoma. Twenty-three cats (18.2%) died within 10 days of surgery. Cats with PSP (P = 0.0462) or that developed hypothermia 25-72 h postoperatively (P = 0.0055) had higher odds of mortality in multivariate analysis. Cats with PSP had 6.7-times higher odds of mortality than cats not diagnosed with PSP.

In cats receiving GI surgery, the incidence of GI incisional dehiscence was <1%. Cats with PSP had a higher likelihood of mortality. SIRS was a common finding in cats with septic peritonitis, but was not associated with mortality. Postoperative mortality during the home recovery period might be significant in cats. Future studies evaluating postoperative mortality in cats should consider extending the research period beyond the date of discharge.