Grimes et al: Surgical ligation of patent ductus arteriosus in dogs: Incidence and risk factors for rupture
Veterinary Surgery 4, 2022

🔍 Key Findings

• Rupture occurred in 7.0% of dogs undergoing surgical PDA ligation (20/285).
• Overall mortality was low (0.4%), with only one death occurring post-rupture.
• Residual flow occurred in 9.4% of dogs; significantly more common in dogs with rupture.
• Residual flow odds were not increased when ligation was successfully performed despite rupture.
• No significant associations between rupture and age, weight, suture size, or dissection technique.
• Jackson-Henderson and intrapericardial techniques were helpful in managing rupture or fibrosis.
• Major complications (non-rupture) were rare (1.4%), including pulmonary artery ligation and cardiac arrest.
• Surgeon preparedness (e.g., hemostatic tools, alternate techniques) was key to successful outcomes.