Best ways to stop bleeding during partial spleen surgery in dogs

Abstract

Spleen is highly vascularized organ and bleeding control during partial splenectomy is a big challenge. In this study conventional methods of electrocautery, absorbable suturing and advance methods of topical hemostat Surgicel® were compared to control bleeding during partial splenec- tomy. Twelve healthy dogs (n=4) were divided in A, B and C groups. After partial splenectomy Surgicel®, electrocautery and absorbable horizontal mattress sutures were used to control hemor- rhages in group A, B and C respectively. Bleeding time and loss of blood volume was evaluated during surgery. In addition, blood samples were taken on day 0 pre-surgery and on days 3, 10 and 17 post-surgery to evaluate changes in biochemical parameters after the application of dif- ferent hemostatic techniques. Ultrasonography was also performed at alternative days to check any gross changes in the spleen. Dogs in group A showed minimum bleeding time and loss of blood volume as compared to group B and C. Drop in red blood cells count was compared be- tween group A, B and C showing significant change (p≤0.05) at day 3, 10 and 17, while a sig- nificant decline in hemoglobin was found in group C followed by groups B and A at 3rd and 10th day. There was no difference between platelet counts in various groups. Ultrasonography showed no significant changes in the spleen parenchyma. It was concluded that Surgicel® was an effective material for controlling hemorrhage in veterinary patients.