Functional Ileus in Dogs: Radiography, Ultrasonography, Acid-Base and Blood Gas Analysis

Abstract

Ileus is a common sequel to parvoviral enteritis, abdominal surgery, pancreatitis, peritonitis, endotoxemia, hypokalemia and dysautonomia. This study was aimed to characterize the radiographic, ultrasonographic and biochemical features of functional ileus in dogs. The study included six dogs with gastrointestinal tract disturbances like vomiting, anorexia and weakness. In this study functional ileus was radiographically characterized by dilated intestinal loops filled with either air or fluid contents. Ultrasonograhically, two patterns were visible. Gas filled dilated intestinal loops created hyperechoic-reflective interfaces with acoustic shadowing with free fluid between the intestinal loops. Fluid filled intestinal loops were visible as hypoechoic fluid filled structures with peristaltic movements. The difference may be due to the chronicity of the disease process. In the initial stages, dilated intestinal loops may be filled with fluid showing peristalsis. Later fluid in the dilated loops may get replaced by gas leading to lack of peristaltic movements and accumulation of free fluid in between. Acid-base disturbance noticed was respiratory alkalosis with increased blood pH, reduced bicarbonate level and reduced pCo₂ were observed in all cases. Lactate and glucose levels were above normal in 83% of the cases. Calcium, potassium and sodium levels were below normal in 83%, 67% and 50% of the cases respectively.