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Closure-related complications after median sternotomy in cats: 26 cases (2010-2020)
Julie Hennet1, Mariette A Pilot2, Davina M Anderson1
1Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists, Hursley, UK.
Insights
Median sternotomy (MS) in cats shows a low risk of closure complications. This study found a 7.7% complication rate, differing from canine outcomes, with sternal dehiscence being the most severe.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
- Comparative Medicine
Background:
- Median sternotomy (MS) is a surgical approach used in veterinary medicine.
- Understanding closure-related complications is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
- Previous studies have focused on canine MS, with limited data on feline complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and types of closure-related complications following median sternotomy in cats.
- To evaluate the overall outcome of cats undergoing median sternotomy.
- To compare feline MS complication profiles with those reported in dogs.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective, multicentric study of feline medical records from 2010-2020.
- Data included signalment, history, surgical details, outcomes, and complications.
- Follow-up via medical records and owner/veterinarian contact; descriptive statistics used.
Main Results:
- Twenty-six of 36 cats survived to discharge (81% survival rate).
- Two cats (7.7%) experienced closure complications: one sternal fracture, one sternal dehiscence requiring revision.
- Thoracic masses, particularly thymoma, were the most common reason for MS.
Conclusions:
- Median sternotomy in cats has a low risk of closure-related complications compared to dogs.
- Complication presentation in cats differs from that observed in canine patients.
- Suture closure appears safe and effective for feline MS.
Objectives:
The aim of this study was to determine closure-related complications and outcome after median sternotomy (MS) in cats.
Methods:
This was a retrospective, multicentric study. The medical records of cats undergoing MS from six referral hospitals were reviewed (2010-2020). Data retrieved included signalment, history, presenting complaints, surgery, patient outcomes and complications. Follow-up was performed via patient records and email/telephone contact with both owners and referring veterinarians. Descriptive statistics were performed.
Results:
Data on 36 cats were collected; four were excluded due to insufficient follow-up and six died less than 5 days after surgery. Twenty-six cats survived to discharge (survival rate 81%). Three cats had a full sternotomy (FS) performed and 23 cats a partial sternotomy (PS). Of the cats that underwent a PS, six included the manubrium (PSM) and three included the xyphoid process. For 14 cats, the length of sternotomy was unknown. Sternotomy closure was performed with suture in all cats. Two cats (7.7%) developed closure-related complications, both after PSM, during the long-term follow-up, one mild, slightly displaced sternal fracture and one severe, sternal dehiscence (without skin wound dehiscence) requiring revision surgery. No seroma, surgical site infection or wound dehiscence occurred. The most common reason for MS was the presence of a thoracic mass (17/26; 65%), with thymoma being the most common (11/17; 65%).
Conclusions And Relevance:
MS has a low closure-related complication risk in cats when compared with dogs. Complications in cats present differently to what has been previously described in dogs.
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