Long-term outcome of ultrasound-guided retrieval of subcutaneous foreign bodies in 32 dogs (2015-2022).

Objectives: To describe the long-term outcomes associated with minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided removal of subcutaneous foreign bodies in dogs.

Materials and methods: A retrospective study was conducted at a single referral hospital from 2015 to 2022. It included dogs diagnosed with extracavitary subcutaneous foreign bodies, treated via ultrasound-guided minimally invasive retrieval with more than 1-year follow-up. Criteria excluded dogs with foreign bodies in less accessible locations, ones needing immediate surgery after removal and those whose long-term information was not available. Long-term outcomes were evaluated through owner questionnaires with a median follow-up of 36.5 months (range from 16 to 98).

Results: Long-term follow-up data were available for 32 dogs. The overall rate of complications was 18.8% with three major and three minor complications during the perioperative period; no complications occurred beyond this time. All owners (100%; n = 32) reported full resolution of clinical signs, and 93.8% (30/32) would recommend this treatment instead of surgery to other pet owners.

Clinical significance: The use of ultrasound-guided subcutaneous foreign body retrieval offered excellent long-term outcomes and high owner satisfaction. This technique should be considered a viable, less invasive alternative to traditional surgery for extracavitary foreign body removal.