Radical mastectomy in 20 ruminants.

OBJECTIVE

To describe a surgical technique for radical mastectomy in ruminants and to report experience and outcome in 20 animals.

STUDY

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

ANIMALS: Seventeen goats and 3 cows.

METHODS

Medical records of ruminants that had radical mastectomy between June 1, 1987 and June 1, 2003 were reviewed. Follow-up information was obtained by telephone interview of owners.

RESULTS

One animal died within 24 hours from complications of gangrenous mastitis and another died from necrotizing cellulitis. Eighteen animals were discharged and follow-up information was available for 15 animals; 12 animals lived at least 1 year postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Ruminants with severe but localized diseases of the udder did well after radical mastectomy. The procedure was well tolerated, made the animals more comfortable, and potentially prolonged their lives as pets.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Radical mastectomy can be a safe and effective procedure for ruminants with udder disease, with few complications.