Retrospective study on perineal hernia in dogs with particular reference to post-operative complications and their management

Fourteen adult male dogs brought to Veterinary Clinic and Teaching Hospital of the Faculty were surgically treated for perineal hernia (Bilateral-3 dogs; unilateral-11 dogs). Traditional herniorrhaphy was performed in all the cases. Dogs with bladder or prostate retro-flexion were castrated following herniorrhaphy at the same time. Main complications recorded were contra-lateral herniation, tenesmus and wound dehiscence or rectal prolapse; faecal incontinence; and sciatic nerve entrapment. Complications were managed using opioid analgesics, warm compresses 2–3 times daily to reduce swelling and irritation, appropriate fluid therapy and stool softener for one month. One dog that had bilateral hernia and one with sciatic nerve entrapment did not respond well to the treatment and died in the postoperative period. Routine anatomic herniorrhaphy and meticulous post-operative management resulted in 85% success rate.