Complications and putative risk factors for cecal or colonic surgery in dogs: 79 cases (2002-2015)

To evaluate the complication rate, mortality rate and putative risk factors for cecal or colonic surgery in dogs.

A multi-institutional retrospective study including dogs that had undergone surgery that involved the cecum or the colon. Medical records from three referral hospitals were reviewed for patient demographics and clinical data. The association between putative risk factors and survival to discharge or complications was assessed using univariable and multivariable analysis.

Seventy-nine dogs met the criteria to be included in this study. Fifty-five dogs had full thickness incision surgeries, while 24 dogs had partial thickness surgeries. The complication and mortality rates for full thickness and partial thickness cecal/colonic surgeries were not statistically different. The dehiscence rate of colonic anastomosis in this study was four of 47 (8.5%). On univariate analysis, performing full thickness procedures out of hours had an association with increased complications and mortality. On multivariable analysis, no factors were associated with survival to discharge or complications. There was no association of board-certified surgeon presence in surgery with complications or mortality.

The performance of full thickness cecal/colonic surgery is not associated with a statistically significant increased risk for complications or mortality compared to partial thickness procedures, with a possible increased risk of complications and mortality in full thickness procedures out of hours.