J Vet Sci.  2023 Jul;24(4):e46. 10.4142/jvs.23003.

Evaluation of improved transvenous heartworm extraction brush in dogs with caval syndrome

• Kim J
• Jeong J
• Park K
• Shin K
• Jang IS
• Yoon H

• KMID: 2545104
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4142/jvs.23003

Abstract

Background
Heartworm infection in dogs is caused by Dirofilaria immitis and common in shelter animals and outdoors dogs. Caval syndrome can develop with severe infection and physical heartworm removal is essential with heartworm burdens. In this study, we used an improved transvenous heartworm extraction brush, which was expected to cause less cardiovascular damage and allow easier manipulation.
Objectives
This study aims to evaluate efficacy of this improved transvenous heartworm extraction brush.
Methods
The brush was designed to improve upon the limitations of the previous brushtype devices. The brush was made of a polyvinyl chloride tube and threads of polyamides or polyglyconates. Metal material was inserted at the front tip for easy visualization under fluoroscopy. The eight dogs diagnosed with caval syndrome with large numbers of heartworms and pulmonary hypertension were used in this study. The removal procedure began with the dissection of the subcutaneous tissue around the right jugular vein. The device was inserted through the jugular vein. After insertion, the tube was rotated to catch the heartworms and extracted with the heartworms hanging on the threads. The procedure was repeated several times. Lastly, jugular vein and skin sutures were made. Adulticidal therapy was administered after heartworm removal.
Results
The mean number of removed heartworms was 10.5 ± 4.24 and mean number of remaining heartworms was 0.63 ± 1.06. Total procedure time was 72.63 ± 51.36. Except for three cases, heartworms were not detected on ultrasonography after the procedure. No procedure-related side effects were observed within the 1- to 2-mon.
Conclusions
An improved transvenous heartworm extraction brush is efficient for heartworm removal in dogs with caval syndrome.

Keyword

Canine diseases; dog heartworm; dirofilaria immitis; dirofilariasis; intervention study