Right Intercostal Insertion of a Veress Needle for Laparoscopy in Dogs

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate right intercostal Veress needle (VN) insertion for laparoscopy in dogs. Study Design: Longitudinal cohort study. Animals: Female dogs (n = 56). Methods: The VN was inserted in the last palpable right intercostal space, either 1/3 (Group T; 28 dogs) or mid distance (Group H; 28 dogs) from the xiphoid cartilage to the most caudal extent of the costal arch. Problems encountered during VN insertion and injuries were recorded, graded, and compared between groups, and also between the first and last 20 insertions. Results: Pneumoperitoneum was successfully achieved by VN insertion in 49 (88%) dogs after a single (45 dogs) or 2nd attempt (4 dogs). Frequency of complications was as follows: 20 grade 1 (subcutaneous emphysema, omentum, or falciform injuries); 6 grade 2 (liver or spleen injury), and 1 grade 3 complication (pneumothorax occurred). No significant difference was found between the 2 groups or between the first and last 20 dogs. Conclusions: Right intercostal VN insertion facilitates pneumoperitoneum in dogs with few consequential complications. No significant difference was found between entry sites; however, the mid distance insertion site in the last palpable intercostal space with dog positioned in dorsal recumbency is likely to result in less complications. © Copyright 2012 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.