Analysis of first gastric compartment fluid collected via percutaneous paracentesis from healthy llamas

Objective-To evaluate the safety and efficacy of percutaneous paracentesis for fluid collection from the first gastric compartment of healthy Ilamas a nd to describe characteristics of that fluid. Design-Prospective study. Animals-10 healthy adult Ilamas. Procedure-Physical examinations were performed prior to sample collection a nd for 14 days afterwards. A CBC was performed prior to sample collection a nd 5 days later. A 16-gauge, 7.5-cm stainless steel needle, positioned appr oximately 20 cm caudal to the costochondral junction of the last rib, was p ointed in a dorsocraniomedial direction and pushed through the abdominal wa ll into the lumen of the first gastric compartment. Fluid was aspirated and analyzed immediately for color, odor, consistency, pH, methylene blue redu ction (MBR) time, protozoa, and bacteria. Results-Fluid samples were obtained from 9 of 10 Ilamas. Mean volume was 4. 1 ml, mean pH was 6.67, and mean MBR lime was 173 seconds. Odor was slightl y acidic, color was light brown-green to light yellow-green, and consistenc y was moderate. Small protozoa with variable iodine staining and gram-negat ive bacteria were commonly detected. With few exceptions, results of physic al examinations and CBC remained within reference ranges. Clinical Implications-fluid samples from the first gastric compartment can be successfully obtained by percutaneous paracentesis. Fluid characteristic s were similar to those of fluid collected via orogastric tube in Ilamas an d cattle.