Complications associated with use of jejunostomy tubes in dogs and cats: 40 Cases (1989-1994)

Abstract

Objective - To evaluate complications and outcomes of surgeries in which jejunostomy tubes were used in critically ill dogs and cats. Design - Retrospective review of medical records. Animals - 32 dogs and 8 cats. Procedure - In each animal, a 5-F or 8-F red rubber urethral/feeding catheter was surgically placed in the proximal portion of the jejunum. Results - The most common indication for jejunostomy tube placement in dogs was a gastrointestinal condition (20 dogs; 62.5%). Neoplasms were detected in 11 of the 20 dogs. Pancreatic disease was the most common indication for tube placement in cats (7 cats; 87.5%). Thirty-three animals (27 dogs, 6 cats; 82.5%) did not have complications. Five dogs and 2 cats had 10 tube-related complications, including focal cellulitis (3 dogs), tube dislodgement (2 dogs, 1 cat), and tube occlusion (1 dog, 1 cat). Twenty-four animals (20 dogs, 4 cats; 60%) were discharged from the hospital. Fifteen dogs and 4 cats were alive 2 weeks after discharge, and 5 dogs and 2 cats survived for at least 4 weeks after discharge. Deaths were related to disease and were not associated with jejunostomy tubes. Clinical Implications - The complication rate associated with jejunostomy tubes appears to be low. Complications usually are nonfatal.