Frontiers in veterinary science
Fascia lata autograft for recurrent inguinal hernia repair in a geriatric pet rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus): a case report
By Bel LV, Ofrim M, Creț A and 7 others.
Abstract
Introduction
Inguinal hernias are uncommon but significant pathologies in rabbits, particularly in geriatric patients, in whom comorbidities, tissue fragility, and anesthetic risk complicate surgical management.
Methods
An 8-year-old, 850 g male Netherland Dwarf rabbit presented with a right inguinal hernia, reducible on palpation. Computed tomography and ultrasonography confirmed herniation of the cecum and urinary bladder. Initial surgical management under general anesthesia included orchidectomy, cystopexy, and primary closure of the inguinal canal using atraumatic monofilament polydioxanone (PDO) 4-0 suture. One month postoperatively, recurrence of the hernia involving the cecum was observed. A second reconstructive procedure was therefore performed using a fascia lata autograft collected from the patient's right pelvic limb. After repositioning the herniated organs, the graft was sutured with atraumatic monofilament PDO 4-0.
