Laparoscopic gallbladder removal surgery in 22 cats from 2018 to 2024

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To describe the surgical technique, indications and complications associated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in cats and to report the clinical outcomes. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: A total of 22 client-owned cats. METHODS: Medical records of cats that underwent LC between 2018 and 2024 were reviewed. Data collected included signalment, clinical signs, laparoscopic approach, concomitant surgical procedures, number of portals, instrument type used for ligation of the cystic duct, operating time, complications and clinical outcome. RESULTS: A 3- or 4-port technique was used in 16 and six cats, respectively. The cystic duct ligation was performed with Hemoclips (n = 14) or with Hem-o-lok (n = 8). The devices used for gallbladder dissection included harmonic scalpel (n = 5), Ligasure (n = 14) and monopolar j-hook (n = 3). The procedure was successfully performed without conversion to open laparotomy in all cases. The median operating time was 41 min. Postoperative complications occurred in three cats: one was treated medically, one spontaneously resolved without intervention and the third cat died 3 days after surgery due to extra hepatic biliary duct obstruction (EHBDO). The final follow-up time for the 21 cases that survived to discharge ranged between 48 and 321 days (median 159 days). CONCLUSION: LC was performed successfully using a 3- or 4-port technique in all cases. LC was associated with a low complication rate and a good clinical outcome. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: LC may be considered as an alternative to open cholecystectomy in cats with gallbladder disease that do not present with biochemical or imaging evidence of EHBDO or biliary tract rupture.