Use of autogenous fascia lata graft for perineal herniorrhaphy in dogs

Objective-To evaluate the effectiveness of a herniorrhaphy technique, using an autogenous fascia lata graft (FLG) for perineal hernia (PH) repair in dogs. Study Design-Prospective clinical study. Animals-Twelve dogs with PH. Method-PHs were repaired with FLG harvested from the dog's ipsilateral thigh and sutured directly into the perineal defect. Correction of associated conditions, and castration were performed. Surgical time, pain, inflammation, pattern of defecation, lameness, hospitalization time, postoperative complications, and owner satisfaction were recorded. Histopathologic examination was performed in 1 dog euthanatized 10 months after repair. Results-Hernia did not recur (mean follow-up, 5.8 months). Lameness was the most frequent minor complication, and was resolved within a few days. Transient rectal prolapse occurred in 2 dogs with bilateral PH. The mean (+/- SD) hospitalization was 1.8 +/- 0.9 days, and the surgical time was 76.5 +/- 9.8 minutes. Histopathologic examination in 1 dog revealed perfect integration of FLG into adjacent tissues without substantial tissue reaction. Conclusions-FLG reconstruction of PH is a simple, effective method of treatment. Clinical Relevance-FLG can be used without major complications for primary repair of PH, as an augmentation procedure when the internal obturator muscle is thin or friable, or when herniation has recurred after another repair technique. (c) Copyright 2005 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.