Iatrogenic rectal perforation in two cats secondary to use of a faecal loop

Two male, neutered, Domestic Shorthair cats, aged 5 and 8 years, were presented to the University of Florida for evaluation and correction of rectal perforations that occurred during faecal sample collection with faecal loops at their primary care hospitals.

One cat presented with a fever, neutropenia, and lymphocytosis, while the other had a fever, thrombocytopenia, hyperglycaemia, and was approximately 5% dehydrated. In both cases, radiography identified a heterogeneous soft tissue and gas opacity adjacent to the rectum, and CT scans identified a defect in the rectal wall with associated pocketing, subcutaneous faecal material, and subcutaneous emphysema. The rectal defects were repaired surgically in both cats using a lateral perineal approach. Both surgical sites were treated with open wound management and left to heal by second intention.

Iatrogenic rectal perforation.

There are risks associated with the use of instruments, such as faecal loops or thermometers, in the rectum. Associated trauma can lead to potentially life-threatening complications. Early detection of rectal perforation is vital to reduce further complications and improve clinical outcomes.