Serum C-reactive protein typically increases at 24 hours postoperatively and then tends to decrease in a majority of...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Biochemistry
• Surgical Science

Background:

• Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase protein indicating inflammation.
• Understanding CRP kinetics post-surgery is crucial for monitoring canine recovery.
• Digestive surgeries in dogs can lead to inflammatory responses that affect CRP levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels during a short postoperative course in dogs.
• To establish the normal evolution of CRP concentrations following uncomplicated digestive surgery in dogs.

Main Methods:

• Prospective enrollment of 27 dogs undergoing uncomplicated digestive surgery.
• Serum CRP concentrations measured preoperatively and at 24, 48, and 72 hours postoperatively.
• Physical examinations and abdominal ultrasounds performed to monitor surgical site integrity.

Main Results:

• Median CRP concentrations were elevated above reference intervals at all measured time points.
• CRP levels peaked at 24 hours postoperatively (175.6 mg/L) and then decreased.
• Significant differences in CRP levels were observed between most time points, except pre-op vs. 48h and 72h.

Conclusions:

• Serum CRP levels are expected to rise following uncomplicated digestive surgery in dogs.
• CRP concentrations typically peak within 24 hours postoperatively and then decline.
• This pattern suggests a predictable inflammatory response in the short-term postoperative period.