Ischaemic distal limb necrosis and Klebsiella pneumoniae infection associated with arterial catheterisation in a cat

Abstract

This case report describes dorsal pedal arterial thrombosis and infection with Klebsiella pneumoniae subsequent to arterial catheter placement in a cat. The complication led to avascular necrosis of the metatarsal and pedal soft tissue. The catheter was placed for blood pressure monitoring during surgery for correction of a peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia. The exact mechanism of thrombosis was unclear. Amputation of the limb was required and the histopathological findings are presented. This is the first report of such a complication. © ISFM and AAFP 2013.