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500204 
Journal Article 
Inguinal fat necrosis in the cat - diagnosis and surgical therapy 
Medl, N; Peppler, C; Marek, N; Kramer, M 
2008 
53 
6 
353-+ 
German 
Cats have a bilateral inguinal fat pad, the extent of which varies depending on the individual and the body condition. Traumatic injuries may lead to necrosis of this tissue. In this study, we describe inguinal fat necrosis with regard to diagnosis and treatment in 16 cats. On physical examination, changes in the inguinal region were detected as painful and firm swellings with an irregular surface. Pain elicited on palpation and the detection of signs of local inflammation allowed a tentative diagnosis. Typical radiographic and sonographic findings supported the clinical diagnosis in ten cats. Surgical debridement of the necrotic tissue was the treatment of choice. Successful treatment without surgery was achieved in only one cat; in 15 cats surgical intervention was necessary. Passive or active drainage was provided following surgical debridement in nine cats. The resection site was extensive in one cat and an omental flap was created to improve the healing process. Of the 16 cats in this series, 15 were discharged after recovering from inguinal fat necrosis, one animal died. Although conservative treatment was successful in one cat, this should be avoided because of the risk of clinical deterioration of the patient. In conclusion, the prognosis of inguinal fat necrosis in cats is favorable. 
cat; trauma; abscess; omentalization; breast; omentum; reconstruction; features; wounds; injury; dogs