Traumatic abdominal wall rupture in cats: Decision-making and recommended repair techniques.

Abstract

PRACTICAL RELEVANCE: Traumatic abdominal wall rupture is a potentially serious injury in cats. Feline and general practitioners should be up to date with the significance of these injuries and the procedures required to correct them. CLINICAL CHALLENGES: It is essential that the surgeon understands the local anatomy and adheres to Halsted's principles in order that postoperative morbidity and mortality are kept to a minimum. EQUIPMENT: Standard general surgical equipment is required together with the facilities to provide adequate pre-, intra- and postoperative patient care. EVIDENCE BASE: The authors have drawn on evidence from the published literature, as well as their own clinical experience, in developing this review aimed all veterinarians who want to update their skills in managing feline abdominal wall trauma.