Clinical use of uncovered balloon‐expandable metallic biliary stents for treatment of extrahepatic biliary tract obstructions in cats and dogs: 11 cases (2012–2022)

Objective To describe the application of uncovered balloon‐expandable metallic biliary stents for treatment of extrahepatic biliary obstructions (EHBOs) and the outcomes for dogs and cats treated for EHBO with this technique. Study design Retrospective single institutional study. Animals Eight dogs and three cats treated at the Veterinary Specialty Hospital of San Diego for EHBO between January 2012 and February 2022. Methods Data collected from the medical records included signalment, presenting complaint, laboratory and imaging findings, surgical findings, hospitalization time, complications, and follow‐up information. Results Median duration of short‐term follow up was 16 days (6–45 days). Improved biochemical abnormalities and resolution of clinical signs were recorded in 10/11 cases. Two dogs died within 2 weeks of surgery. One dog developed systemic inflammatory response syndrome 5 days postoperatively and was euthanized; the cause of death in the second case was unknown. Long‐term follow up was available in seven cases, with a median duration of 307.5 days (62–2268 days). Bile‐duct patency was maintained for at least 356–622 days (median: 446 days) in three cats and 62–2268 days (median: 650.5 days) in four dogs with long‐term follow up available. One cat had recurrent obstruction with choledocholiths 446 days postoperatively. One stent was removed 614 days postoperatively due to recurrent cholangiohepatitis. Conclusion Uncovered balloon‐expandable metallic biliary stents were placed successfully and relieved EHBO in all cases that survived to discharge. Clinical significance Use of uncovered balloon‐expandable metallic biliary stents should be considered as an alternative to temporary choledochal luminal stenting or cholecystoenterostomy to manage EHBO.