Laparoscopic extra-abdominal transfascial suturing technique for diaphragmatic rupture repair in a cat.

Objective: To describe the technique, complications, and outcome of the laparoscopic extra-abdominal transfascial suturing method for diaphragmatic rupture repair in a cat.

Study Design: Case report.

Animals: A 10 year old, female domestic shorthair cat.

Methods: An acute traumatic diaphragmatic rupture was diagnosed in a cat. Following initial stabilization, 3-port laparoscopic surgery was performed. After the laparoscopic reduction of herniating organs, a circumferential diaphragmatic tear was diagnosed, which was repaired using a multiple extra-abdominal transfascial suture technique. The total surgical time was 50 min with no intraoperative complications encountered.

Results: The successful procedure was confirmed by normalization of chest radiography, clinical signs, and blood gas analysis in the perioperative and postoperative periods. Mild skin irritation occurred 3 weeks after surgery but was resolved following the removal of sutures. The cat recovered well without major complications; the final reexamination was performed 3 months postoperatively.

Conclusion: The laparoscopic extra-abdominal transfascial suturing technique appears to be a feasible, and effective technique for feline diaphragmatic circumferential rupture repair. This technique may be an alternative option to intracorporeal suturing for diaphragmatic rupture treatment in the cat.