Long-Term Outcome after Cholecystectomy without Common Bile Duct Catheterization and Flushing in Dogs

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Gall bladder mucocele (GBM) is one of the most common indications for biliary surgery in dogs, and cholecystectomy is considered the treatment of choice. Before cystic duct ligation, catheterization and flushing of the common bile duct (CBD) is commonly performed to ensure patency but is potentially associated with complications. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has been described in dogs as a treatment for uncomplicated GBM without evidence of biliary tract rupture or CBD obstruction. In this study, we describe the long-term outcome of dogs undergoing cholecystectomy for GBM without catheterization and flushing of the CBD. The results of the present study suggest that this cohort of dogs had a good-to-excellent long-term prognosis, with a low morbidity and perioperative mortality, with 96% of dogs surviving for more than 6 months. This population could represent ideal candidates for LC in dogs. ABSTRACT: The aim of this study is to report outcomes of dogs undergoing cholecystectomy for gall bladder mucocele (GBM) without flushing and catheterization of the common bile duct (CBD). This is a retrospective multicentric study from three veterinary referral hospitals and included 82 dogs diagnosed with GBM. Medical records were reviewed for clinical and histopathological findings. Long-term outcome was assessed with an owner questionnaire. The common bile duct was considered normal (<4 mm), mildly dilated (5–6 mm) and moderately dilated (>7 mm) in 88%, 10% and 2.4% of dogs, respectively. Surgery was uncomplicated in 83% of dogs. Intraoperative complications were recorded in 21% of dogs, with hypotension being the most common, whereas postoperative complications were documented in 20% of dogs, with vomiting/regurgitation being the most common. Ninety-six percent of dogs that underwent cholecystectomy in this study survived to discharge. Follow-up ranged from 142 to 3930 days (median: 549 days). Eighty-five percent of dogs were alive at the time of follow-up. Dogs undergoing cholecystectomy for GBM without catheterization and flushing of the CBD have a favourable prognosis for recovery and quality of life.