GI05 - Evaluation of an Outpatient Protocol for the Management of Acute Pancreatitis in Dogs

Abstract:

Background: Inpatient care for pancreatitis is costly and can be prohibitive. Development of an outpatient protocol may reduce cost of care. Hypothesis/

Objectives: Evaluate the feasibility and analgesia afforded by a standardized outpatient protocol for pancreatitis in dogs. Animals: 11 client-owned animals with suspected pancreatitis.

Methods: Prospective observational study. All dogs received the following protocol: fuzapladib sodium (0.4 mg/kg IV q24hrs for 3 days), subcutaneous fluids (up to 20 ml/kg SQ q8hrs), hydromorphone (0.01 mg/kg/hr delivered by a wearable subcutaneous infusion device), anti-emetics (maropitant citrate 2 mg/kg PO q24h &/or ondansetron 0.5 mg/kg PO q8hr), and nutrition (low-fat diet). Dogs were assessed every 24 hours for 3 days via physical examination and calculation of modified clinical activity index (MCAI) and Glasgow pain scores (GPS).

Results: All dogs survived during study follow-up. One dog was suspected to develop Well’s syndrome, but a drug adverse effect could not be ruled out. MCAI decreased from day 0 (median: 7, IQR: 7) to day 3 (median 3.5, IQR: 5). GPS decreased from day 0 (median: 6, IQR: 7) to day 3 (median 0, IQR: 0). One dog was recommended to be hospitalized on day 3 due to vomiting and dehydration. A second dog was hospitalized at the owners request. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Dogs with suspected pancreatitis can be treated on an outpatient basis with only 1 dog receiving a recommendation for hospitalization during the study. Randomized controlled studies are needed to compare this protocol to inpatient management and to allow for cost comparison.