Complete surgical excision versus Penrose drainage for the treatment of elbow hygroma in 19 dogs (1997 to 2014)

Abstract

Objectives To report results of surgical excision and Penrose drainage for the treatment of elbow hygromas in dogs. Materials and Methods Retrospective review of the clinical records of 19 dogs with elbow hygromas treated with Penrose drainage or surgical excision between 1997 and 2014. The data retrieved from the records included breed, gender, age, duration of clinical signs, weight, historical data, complete blood count and serum biochemistry, physical examination findings, diameter of the hygroma, cytology of needle aspirates, method of treatment, histological findings, postsurgical complications and their management and outcome. Results Twenty‐one hygromas were treated in 19 dogs. Eleven were right‐sided, six were left‐sided and four were bilateral. First‐line treatment was Penrose drain placement in 12 and complete surgical excision in nine. Bilateral hygromas were addressed simultaneously. Four of the 12 hygromas managed with Penrose drain recurred and one developed ulceration over the olecranon. Recurrent hygromas were treated by surgical excision. The ulceration was surgically excised and reconstructed with a thoracodorsal axial pattern flap. No further complications developed. All the dogs were clinically healthy after a median follow‐up of 16 months. Clinical Significance Surgical excision of canine elbow hygroma is an effective technique that appears to have fewer postoperative complications than Penrose drain placement.

Novel approach for the treatment of canine elbow hygroma with extracorporeal shockwaves

“…Medium time from appearing of the hygroma to the decision for any surgical treatment (drainage or total excision) is 18 months (2-136 months) [6]. This shows the reluctance of surgeons for surgical intervention.…”

“…The elbow joint needs to be immobilized after surgery with a splint or even an external fixator 2 3 5 . If ulceration is present elaborate surgery with the use of thoracodorsal axial pattern flap or free skin grafts may be necessary 5 6 . During complete removal of the hygroma calloused skin overlying the hygroma will be removed and cannot act like a natural barrier.…”

Effect of hospitalisation on the rate of surgical site infection in dogs with Penrose drains

“…Although complication and infection rates relating to the use of active suction drains have been previously reported (Bristow et al ., 2015), there are only a few publications describing the use of Penrose drains ( e.g . Angelou et al ., 2020; Dougherty & Simmons, 1992; Drinkwater & Neil, 1995; Roush, 1990) and none describing complication rates relating to their use in dogs.…”