A comparison of outcomes between laparoscopic and open adrenalectomies in dogs

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveTo compare short‐ and long‐term outcomes of dogs with adrenal tumors treated by adrenalectomy with laparoscopy or laparotomy.Study designRetrospective study of dogs that underwent adrenalectomy with laparoscopy or laparotomy.Sample populationFourteen dogs treated with laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) and twenty‐six dogs treated with open midline adrenalectomy (OA).MethodsDogs treated with LA were matched with 1 or 2 dogs treated with OA on the basis of histological nature, size, and side of the tumor. Intraoperative complications, postoperative complications, and long‐term survival were compared between LA and OA.ResultsIntraoperative hypotension occurred in 2 of 14 (14.3%) dogs in the LA group and in 16 of 26 (61.5%) dogs in the OA group (P = .007). The surgical time was 69.8 ± 21.8 minutes for the LA group and 108.6 ± 42 minutes for the OA group (P = .0003). The hospitalization time was 39.3 ± 14.9 hours for the LA group and 46.3 ± 25.1 hours for the OA group (P = .1453). The 1‐ and 2‐year survival rates were 77% and 77%, respectively, for the LA group and 77% and 66%, respectively, for the OA group (P = .6144).ConclusionLaparoscopic adrenalectomy was associated with a shorter surgical time and a reduced incidence of hypotension compared with open adrenalectomy in this case‐matched study. Short‐ and long‐term outcomes were not affected by the surgical technique used to complete the adrenalectomy.Clinical significanceLaparoscopy can be recommended for adrenalectomy in dogs; however, appropriate case selection is required.