Clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes for 15 dogs with two or three congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts.

Abstract

Objective: To assess clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes of dogs with two or three congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (M-EHPSS).

Study design: Multi-institutional retrospective study.

Sample population: A total of 15 dogs with M-EHPSS.

Methods: Medical records were reviewed, and data was collected on dogs with M-EHPSS diagnosed via computed tomography (CT) between 2008 and 2024. Signalment, clinical signs, bloodwork values, postoperative complications, long-term clinical outcome, survival, and owner reported quality of life were recorded.

Results: Approximately half of the dogs (7/15; 47%) were Miniature Schnauzers. Clinical signs and hematologic indicators at presentation were comparable to EHPSS. The mean dog age at diagnosis via CT imaging was 1451 days, and all dogs underwent surgical attenuation (SA) except for one that was ultimately lost to follow up examination. A total of 12 dogs had two shunts, and three dogs had three shunts. Seven dogs did not undergo attenuation of one shunt; these other shunts were either not initially suspected (5/7), the attenuation device was misplaced (1/7) or surgeon preference to not place attenuation device (1/7). Left gastro-phrenic EHPSS were the only EHPSS not suspected initially. At the time of last follow-up (median: 1253 days), 10/15 dogs were alive. Clinical outcomes were good or excellent in most dogs (12/14; 86%).

Conclusion: These findings suggest that M-EHPSS dogs have a similar prognosis to dogs with standard EHPSS dogs when all EHPSS are identified and treated with appropriate attenuation placement. A potential breed predisposition towards Miniature Schnauzers was identified.

Clinical significance: This information provides guidance for treatment and prognosis of dogs with M-EHPSS.