Thoracoscopic Resection of Right Auricular Masses in 9 Dogs

Objective
To show the feasibility thoracoscopic resection of masses located on the right auricle in dogs.

Study Design
Retrospective case series.

Animals
Dogs (n = 9) with a mass on the right auricle.

Procedures
Hospital records from 2003 to 2011 were reviewed. Dogs that underwent thoracoscopic resection of a mass on the right auricle were selected. Data collected included history, clinicopathological findings, surgical technique, and outcome.

Results
All dogs with pericardial effusion were examined with echocardiography. Cardiac masses were identified in 5 dogs on the right auricle. Eight dogs had clinical signs of cardiac tamponade and right-sided heart failure. All dogs underwent thoracoscopic resection of a mass on the right atrium. Eight hemangiosarcomas and 1 pyogranulomatous lesion were resected. One dog with a mass located at the base of the right auricle died during surgery. No postoperative complications were noticed.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance
Right auricular masses were successfully removed in nine dogs. Masses close to the base of the right atrial appendage may not be amenable to resection with thoracoscopy. Resection of small masses at the tip of the right auricular appendage can be performed thoracoscopically.  [...]