Evaluation of changes in wound assessment parameters associated with contra-lateral spermatic cord as ligature in open and closed pre-scrotal and scrotal castrations

This study evaluated changes in wound assessment parameters associated with contra-lateral spermatic cord as ligature in open and closed pre-scrotal and scrotal castrations in growing Nigerian male mongrels. Sixty client-owned dogs were randomly assigned into 6 groups (n=10). The spermatic cord was used as ligature in 4 groups (1, 2, 5, 6) while chromic catgut ligature was used in the other 2 groups (3 and 4). Groups 1, 3 and 5 were pre-scrotally castrated while groups 2, 4 and 6 were scrotally castrated using standard methods. Incisions were closed in groups 1, 2, 3 and 4 while in groups 5 and 6, incisions remained open. Mean wound dehiscence was significantly higher (p<0.05) in group 1 than that of the other sutured dog groups post-castration. Mean wound exudation was significantly higher (p<0.05) in groups 5 and 6 than that of the other dog groups. Mean bacterial load was also significantly higher (p<0.05) in groups 5 and 6 at days 1, 3 and 7 post-castration in comparison to that of the other groups. Mean days for complete wound healing were significantly higher in groups 5 and 6 when compared to those of the other groups. Findings greatly suggest that contra-lateral spermatic cord ligature provides a credible alternative to the use of absorbable ligature during castration in dogs and also discourages leaving an incision open.

Source: Comparative Clinical Pathology - February 21, 2017 Category: Pathology Source Type: research