Matteo Rossanese1,2, Andrew Tomlinson2. 1. Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom. 2. University of Liverpool, Neston, United Kingdom.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To describe and report the outcomes after closure of median sternotomies with crimped monofilament nylon leader (MNL) in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective observational study. ANIMALS: Dogs (n = 10) that underwent intrathoracic surgery through a median sternotomy approach. METHODS: The median sternotomy was closed in a peristernal figure eight pattern with crimped MNL. Medical records were reviewed for clinical and histopathological findings and complications. Owners or veterinarians were contacted to collect long-term follow-up information. RESULTS: The technique was simple, with no intraoperative complications. Postoperative infection was documented in one dog, requiring removal of a single MNL and associated crimp clamp. Delayed healing of the surgical incision in one dog was managed conservatively. No other complications were documented throughout long-term follow-up at a median of 488 days (range, 199-608). CONCLUSION: Median sternotomies were successfully closed with crimped MNL and were associated with a low complication rate. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Crimped MNL represents an alternative method to close median sternotomies in dogs.
OBJECTIVE: To describe and report the outcomes after closure of median sternotomies with crimped monofilament nylon leader (MNL) in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective observational study. ANIMALS: Dogs (n = 10) that underwent intrathoracic surgery through a median sternotomy approach. METHODS: The median sternotomy was closed in a peristernal figure eight pattern with crimped MNL. Medical records were reviewed for clinical and histopathological findings and complications. Owners or veterinarians were contacted to collect long-term follow-up information. RESULTS: The technique was simple, with no intraoperative complications. Postoperative infection was documented in one dog, requiring removal of a single MNL and associated crimp clamp. Delayed healing of the surgical incision in one dog was managed conservatively. No other complications were documented throughout long-term follow-up at a median of 488 days (range, 199-608). CONCLUSION: Median sternotomies were successfully closed with crimped MNL and were associated with a low complication rate. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Crimped MNL represents an alternative method to close median sternotomies in dogs.