Colonic perforation following neurosurgical procedures and corticosteroid therapy in four dogs

Perforation of the proximal descending colon occurred in four Dachshund dogs, each of which died 5 to 10 days following neurosurgical procedures. The complication was believed to be associated with parenteral use of dexamethasone. Correct antemortem diagnosis was made in only one of the four cases, probably because signs of a perforated viscus were so modified by the antiphlogistic effects of corticosteroids as to prevent early detection of the complication.