Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Complications from jejunostomy feeding tubes in dogs and cats
By Swann, H M et al.·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·1997·School of Veterinary Medicine, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Complications associated with use of jejunostomy tubes in dogs and cats: 40 cases (1989-1994).
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of 32 dogs and 8 cats underwent surgery to place feeding tubes in their intestines due to serious health issues. Most of the dogs had gastrointestinal problems, while the cats mainly had pancreatic disease. Fortunately, about 82% of the animals did not experience any complications from the tubes, and many were able to go home after treatment. While a few pets did have issues like infections or tube blockages, these were generally not life-threatening. Most of the animals that were discharged survived for at least two weeks afterward, showing that the use of these feeding tubes can be safe and effective.
People also search for: dog feeding tube complications · cat pancreatic disease treatment · jejunostomy tube care for pets
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate complications and outcomes of surgeries in which jejunostomy tubes were used in critically ill dogs and cats. DESIGN: Retrospective review of medical records. ANIMALS: 32 dogs and 8 cats. PROCEDURE: In each animal, a 5-F or 8-F red rubber urethral/feeding catheter was surgically placed in the proximal portion of the jejunum. RESULTS: The most common indication for jejunostomy tube placement in dogs was a gastrointestinal condition (20 dogs; 62.5%). Neoplasms were detected in 11 of the 20 dogs. Pancreatic disease was the most common indication for tube placement in cats (7 cats; 87.5%). Thirty-three animals (27 dogs, 6 cats; 82.5%) did not have complications. Five dogs and 2 cats had 10 tube-related complications, including focal cellulitis (3 dogs), tube dislodgement (2 dogs, 1 cat), and tube occlusion (1 dog, 1 cat). Twenty-four animals (20 dogs, 4 cats; 60%) were discharged from the hospital. Fifteen dogs and 4 cats were alive 2 weeks after discharge, and 5 dogs and 2 cats survived for at least 4 weeks after discharge. Deaths were related to disease and were not associated with jejunostomy tubes. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The complication rate associated with jejunostomy tubes appears to be low. Complications usually are nonfatal.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9187726/