Perineal herniorrhaphy with cone-shaped polypropylene mesh in dogs

Abstract

A perineal hernia in dogs is a condition in which there is a weakness or tear in the muscles of the pelvic diaphragm. This results in the abdominal contents, such as fat or intestines, or urinary bladder, prostate pushing through the opening, creating a bulge in the perineal area. There is also the risk of adherences forming and with chronicity a rectal diverticulum will form, thus the formation of fecaloma. A 10 year old dog was presented to our clinic with signs of kyphosis, constant need of taking the position to defecate, and a big mass surrounding the anus. The history and clinical exam suggested a perineal hernia, subsequently confirmed radiographically. Because the defect was bilateral, we opted for surgical treatment with polypropylene mesh in the shape of a cone to fit the defect. There was no postoperative complication and the patient was discharged the same day. In this chronic condition, other techniques for repair are limited due to the muscle atrophy.