Laparoscopic extra-abdominal transfascial suturing technique for diaphragmatic rupture repair in a cat

To describe the technique, complications, and outcome of the laparoscopic extra-abdominal transfascial suturing method for diaphragmatic rupture repair in a cat.

Case report.

A 10 year old, female domestic shorthair cat.

An acute traumatic diaphragmatic rupture was diagnosed in a cat. Following initial stabilization, 3-port laparoscopic surgery was performed. After the laparoscopic reduction of herniating organs, a circumferential diaphragmatic tear was diagnosed, which was repaired using a multiple extra-abdominal transfascial suture technique. The total surgical time was 50 min with no intraoperative complications encountered.

The successful procedure was confirmed by normalization of chest radiography, clinical signs, and blood gas analysis in the perioperative and postoperative periods. Mild skin irritation occurred 3 weeks after surgery but was resolved following the removal of sutures. The cat recovered well without major complications; the final reexamination was performed 3 months postoperatively.

The laparoscopic extra-abdominal transfascial suturing technique appears to be a feasible, and effective technique for feline diaphragmatic circumferential rupture repair. This technique may be an alternative option to intracorporeal suturing for diaphragmatic rupture treatment in the cat.