Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Metal stents used to treat bile duct blockage in dogs and cats
By Chai, Suh Hyun et al.·Published in Veterinary medicine and science·2025·Department of Small Animal Surgery, South Korea·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Application of Self-Expandable Metal Stent in Dogs and Cats for the Management of Extrahepatic Biliary Obstruction: 13 Cases (2021-2024).
Plain-English summary
A 9-year-old mixed-breed dog and a 10-year-old domestic shorthair cat were both diagnosed with extrahepatic biliary obstruction (EHBO), which caused symptoms like not eating, being unusually tired, and yellowing of the skin. They underwent a procedure to place a self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) to help relieve the blockage. After the surgery, both pets showed improvement in their symptoms and had lower bilirubin levels, indicating better liver function. Most of the animals in the study recovered well, with no major complications reported, and they were able to live comfortably for up to two years after the procedure.
People also search for: dog jaundice treatment · cat liver blockage symptoms · biliary obstruction in pets treatment
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To describe the clinical characteristics of 11 dogs and 2 cats with extrahepatic biliary obstruction (EHBO) who underwent self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement. We also examined the indications for the procedure and evaluated its outcomes. Lastly, we identified risk factors associated with survival in these animals. METHODS: This retrospective study included 11 client-owned dogs and 2 client-owned cats that underwent biliary SEMS placement. Medical records were reviewed. RESULTS: The average age of the animals was 9.3 years (range, 6-15). The majority of animals had at least one clinical sign associated with EHBO. Frequently appearing clinical signs were inappetence, lethargy and jaundice. No complications were found related to the stenting procedure. Clinical signs and serum total bilirubin concentration improved postoperatively in all 13 animals. The 12 animals (92.3%) that survived until discharge were followed up to 2 years postoperatively, during which time no significant complications were observed. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Biliary SEMS placement may be considered as a treatment option for dogs and cats with EHBO, with minor complications and potential for permanent treatment of EHBO.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40782109/