PLACEMENT OF A LOW-PROFILE DUODENOSTOMY AND JEJUNOSTOMY DEVICE IN 5 DOGS

Five male crossbred dogs successfully underwent surgical placement of button enterostomy tubes to evaluate the placement technique, maintena nce and complications of these tubes. Surgical placement was quick, te chnically straightforward and similar to techniques used for other fee ding tubes. None of the dogs experienced life-threatening complication s during the 10 month follow-up period. One device required replacemen t as it was removed by the dog before a permanent fistula had formed. Open tubes due to loose safety plugs and focal cellulitis surrounding the exit sites of these tubes were noted in all dogs. The button tube may be a feasible option for long-term nutritional support in patients with pancreatic, hepatobiliary or gastrointestinal conditions.