Use of a bipolar vessel-sealing device for removal of caudal rectal masses in the dog has a similar complication rate to mucosal eversion suture technique (2019-2023).

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare complication rates between the use of a vessel-sealing device (VSD) for removal of canine caudal rectal masses (CRM) to mucosal eversion suture (MES) techniques.

Methods: This was a retrospective case-control study from a referral practice in the US between January 2019 and May 2023 on client-owned dogs that had CRM removal through a transanal rectal eversion approach with only a VSD or MES techniques. The study compared age, weight, sex, clinical signs, preoperative diagnostics, histopathology results, and short-term complications within 14 days postoperatively.

Results: There were 36 dogs, including 15 in the VSD group and 21 in the MES group. It was found that the complication rate postoperatively was 27% in the VSD group and 24% in the MES group. There was found to be no significant difference in the complications associated with VSD and MES techniques on the removal of CRM in dogs.

Conclusions: Dogs undergoing polypectomy overall had a low chance of postoperative complications following removal with a VSD. There were no major complications such as perforation with the use of a VSD.

Clinical relevance: We believe a VSD can be used safely to remove CRMs through a transanal approach, with comparable short-term complications to traditional MES techniques.