Retrospective Study (2009-2014): Perineal Hernias and Related Comorbidities in Bitches

Retrospective study based on data extracted from medical records of dogs diagnosed with perineal hernia between 2009 and 2014; medical records of bitches were selected for further analysis to determine the prevalence of perineal hernias in bitches and to investigate potential comorbidities. Perineal hernia was diagnosed in 182 dogs (174 males and 8 females; 96% and 4%, respectively). Surgical correction was performed in 6 bitches. Surgical procedures corresponded to internal obturator muscle transposition with or without polypropylene mesh reinforcement (n = 5) and semitendinosus muscle transposition flap (n = 1). Major comorbidities associated with perineal hernias in adult bitches were trauma (n = 3; 7.3 ± 1.5 years; 7.1 ± 8.5 kg) and persistent cough secondary to conditions such as bronchitis, tracheal collapse, and cardiopathy in aged, small-sized patients (n = 3; 13.6 ± 2.0 years; 2.3 ± 0.1 kg). Perineal hernias are uncommon in bitches and tend to be associated with comorbidities in these patients. Aged female dogs suffering from uncontrolled chronic cough secondary to cardiopathy or bronchitis are at risk of developing perineal hernia. Previous trauma to the pelvis is another potential risk factor for perineal hernia development in female dogs.