Management of chronic pleural effusion in dogs and cats using the PleuralPort device: complications and outcome of 30 cases (2005-2024)

Authors: Tirillini F, Montinaro V, Cipolla E, Cinti F
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume Ahead of Print, Issue Ahead of Print, Dec 2025
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Cat, Dog
Article class: Research Article

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Abstract:

Case history: Medical records of cases with pleural effusion managed with the PleuralPort device (PPD) were reviewed retrospectively at two veterinary hospitals in Italy. Cases with PPD placement at initial or second surgery and with a minimum follow-up of 4 weeks were included. Data retrieved from the records included signalment, fluid analysis, duration of implantation, duration of function, and complications. The PPD was placed subcutaneously in the dorsal thorax and connected to a drainage tube inserted in the pleural space. Complications were divided into intra-operative, short-term (≤ 12 weeks) and long-term (> 12 weeks). Owners were contacted by telephone for follow-up information, using a non-standardised questionnaire.

Clinical findings: A total of 30 animals were included in the study: 26 dogs and four cats. Pleural fluid was compatible with chylothorax (22/30), neoplastic pleural effusion (5/30) and inflammatory pleural effusion (3/30).

No intra-operative complications were reported. Overall, post-operative complications occurred in 9/30 (30%) patients. Major complications developed in six (20%) cases, including infection, tube kinking, pneumothorax and obstruction. Minor complications in four cases (13.3%) included skin inflammation, discomfort and dislocation of the device. Short-term complications developed in 7/30 (23.3%) cases and long-term complications in 3/22 (13.6%) cases that survived longer than 12 weeks after surgery. Owner satisfaction was very good in 28/30 (93.3%) cases.

Conclusions and clinical relevance: The PPD was well tolerated by the animals and was a feasible alternative to thoracostomy tubes for the management of chronic pleural effusion in dogs and cats. Although complications were relatively common, they were easily treated in most patients.

KEYWORDS: Pleural fluid, chylothorax, vascular access port, dog, cat

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