Thesis
Outcome of Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Treatment of Idiopathic Chylothorax in 15 Cats
Washington State University
Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
2023
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7273/000005368
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the complications and outcomes of video assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) treatment of chylothorax in cats. Study Design: Multi-institutional retrospective study.
Animals: Fifteen client-owned cats.
Methods: Medical records of cats undergoing thoracoscopic thoracic duct ligation (TDL) for treatment of idiopathic chylothorax were reviewed. Cats undergoing additional procedures including thoracoscopic pericardectomy and/or laparoscopic cisterna chyli ablation were included. Follow up was obtained through communication with the referring veterinarian or owner.
Results: Fifteen cats were included in the study. Conversion from a thoracoscopic to open approach was necessary in 2/15 (13%) of thoracic duct ligations and 1/11 (9%) of pericardectomies. The most common post operative complication was persistent pleural effusion in 5 cats (33%). Four of 15 cats (27%) died or were euthanized prior to hospital discharge following surgery. Recurrence of chylous effusion occurred in 1/6 (17%) of cats that sustained resolution of the effusion with surgery. The overall mortality attributed to chylothorax within the study period was 47%.
Conclusion: Thoracoscopic treatment of idiopathic chylothorax resulted in a low incidence of intraoperative complications or conversion in the study population, however mortality related to feline idiopathic chylothorax remained high despite a minimally invasive surgical approach.
Clinical Significance: While VATS treatment of idiopathic chylothorax is technically feasible, further consideration of the underlying pathology and current treatment algorithm is needed to improve outcomes as this remains a frustrating disease to treat in the feline population.
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Details
- Title
- Outcome of Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Treatment of Idiopathic Chylothorax in 15 Cats
- Creators
- Rachel Dickson
- Contributors
- Boel Fransson (Advisor)Bonnie Campbell (Committee Member)Annie Chen-Allen (Committee Member)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Veterinary Medicine, College of
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University
- Number of pages
- 26
- Identifiers
- 99901031340801842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Thesis