Nonsurgical management of traumatic pneumoperitoneum in a cat

AbstractObjectiveTo describe the nonsurgical management of a cat with traumatic pneumoperitoneum.Case Series SummaryA 4 ‐year‐old cat was presented following vehicular polytrauma. Thoracic radiographs revealed 4 rib fractures, a scapular fracture, and pneumothorax. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a small volume of free abdominal fluid. Computed tomography showed a mild pneumoretroperitoneum and a pneumoperitoneum i n the region of the porta hepatis. The cat was managed conservatively with close monitoring. Exploratory laparotomy was not pursued given patient stability and static serial imaging studies revealing no indications for surgical intervention. After 6 days, the pneumoperitoneum was no longer detectabl e.New or Unique Information ProvidedTo the authors ’ knowledge, this is the first report of successful nonsurgical management of traumatic pneumoperitoneum in a cat.

Source: Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care - November 9, 2018 Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Helen S. Philp, Gawain J. C. Hammond Tags: Case Report Source Type: research