Complications associated with modified closed anal sacculectomies using monopolar electrosurgery in 113 dogs

The objective of this study was to report on the complication rate for monopolar electrosurgery in modified closed anal sacculectomy in dogs.

Medical records from January 2015 to June 2024 were retrospectively reviewed for the use of monopolar electrosurgery in modified closed anal sacculectomy in dogs. Inclusion criteria consisted of a presurgical physical examination; all surgery, anesthesia, diagnostic imaging, and histopathology reports; postoperative recheck examination for incision status; and any postoperative complications. Two time points were evaluated: day 1 and the postoperative period (day 2 until the final incisional evaluation).

125 incisions were included. No intraoperative complications were reported. Fifteen percent of incisions on day 1 experienced postoperative complications (swelling and bruising), while 9% of incisions within the postoperative period experienced complications (incisional dehiscence and incisional discharge). No significant association was found between postoperative complications and the weight of the patient, presence of diarrhea, presence of neoplasia, size of anal sac lesion, or incomplete excision. Incomplete excision had a significant association with local recurrence.

Most postoperative complications, such as swelling, bruising, and incisional discharge, were self-limiting. Incomplete excision significantly increased the odds of recurrence. Postoperative complication rates were similar to those in previous studies not utilizing total electrosurgical dissection.

Monopolar electrosurgery can be used for surgical approach and dissection in modified closed anal sacculectomy.