MIS: Home > Cases > Kalamity

Cases

<< Previous | Next >>

Kalamity

• Patient:
  Kalamity, 3 year old Olicat.



• Presenting complaint:
  Uncomfortable, reclusive, and eating poorly for past few days. Throughout life, excitement produced short, rapid breathing pattern. Referring veterinarian had diagnosed a mass behind the heart, possibly a diaphragmatic hernia. Our radiographs and ultrasonagraphy were supportive of a congenital peritoneal-pericardial hernia, however this was not definitive. A mass in the chest behind the heart would have typically been approached by going through the chest from the side. In contrast a hernia would be best repaired by a midline approach in the abdomen.



• Endoscopic technique:
  A 5 mm laparoscope was placed into the abdomen and the diaphragm examined. A peritoneal-pericardial hernia was diagnosed. A laparotomy was performed and the hernia repaired.



• Benefits of using endoscopy:
  Laparoscopy insured that the appropriate procedure was performed, rather than inappropriately performing a thoracotomy as the initial approach.

<< Previous | Next >>

^  Top of page