Canine heartworm(Dirofilaria immitis) extraction in a cat with cardiotomy

Abstract

The patient was presented for postnatal abdominal distension, inappetence, and rapid breathing. Diagnostic tests showed positive for canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis), right sided systolic heart base murmur grade III/VI and left sided systolic heart base murmur grade III/VI, and evidence of pleural effusion and ascites. Heartworms were evident in right atrium and right ventricle on echocardiographic examinations. Vena cava syndrome was diagnosed based on the echocardiographic findings. After improving the catʼs respiratory function and appetite by fluid aspiration from both chest and abdomen, she was referred to Kitasato University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Based on the examination, the jugular vein was too thin for the alligator forceps to be inserted, heartworms were removed using alligator forceps via thoracotomy. Postoperative recovery was well.