Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
The surgical treatment of cholelithiasis in cats: a study of nine cases.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association
- Year:
- 2002
- Authors:
- Eich, Christopher S & Ludwig, Lori L
- Affiliation:
- Department of Surgery · United States
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
In a study of nine cats that underwent surgery for obstructive cholelithiasis, which is the presence of gallstones causing a blockage, researchers looked at their symptoms, test results, and what happened after surgery. All the cats showed signs of vomiting and dehydration, while some also had decreased appetite, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and low energy. The surgeries included removing the gallbladder in five cats, opening it in one, and redirecting bile flow in three. Most of the cats did well after surgery, with many not experiencing further vomiting or appetite loss, and they survived for an average of about 21 months without needing more treatment. Overall, the surgery seemed to be successful with few complications, although two cats with additional liver issues did not survive.
Abstract
Nine cats that had surgical treatment for obstructive cholelithiasis were reviewed to evaluate clinical signs, diagnostic test results, and outcome after surgery. Common clinical signs included progressive vomiting (9/9), dehydration (9/9), anorexia (6/9), icterus (5/9), and lethargy (4/9). Five cats had a cholecystectomy performed, one cat had a cholecystotomy, and three cats had a biliary diversion procedure. Four of the cats that had a cholecystectomy had no recurrence of vomiting or anorexia. The majority of cats (7/9) had multiple choleliths, which were radiopaque and most commonly composed of calcium carbonate. Seven cats were diagnosed with cholangiohepatitis, and four of these cats did not need long-term medical therapy. Most cats (7/9) survived long term postsurgery (mean, 21 months; median, 24 months) without additional medical therapy, while the two cats with concurrent hepatic lipidosis died. Cholecystectomy appeared to have low morbidity with good clinical success.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12022416/