Use of a vessel-sealing device versus conventional hemostatic techniques in dogs undergoing thyroidectomy because of suspected thyroid carcinoma.

To compare use of a vessel-sealing device (VSD) versus conventional hemostatic techniques in dogs undergoing thyroidectomy because of suspected thyroid carcinoma. Retrospective cohort study. 42 client-owned dogs undergoing thyroidectomy because of suspected thyroid carcinoma. Medical records of dogs treated at 4 referral centers from 2010 through 2016 were reviewed, and information was obtained on patient signalment, surgical technique, tumor-specific factors, and operative duration. Postoperative hospitalization time and complications were compared between dogs grouped on the basis of hemostatic technique. Thyroidectomy was performed with a VSD in 23 dogs and with conventional hemostatic techniques (ie, ligatures, hemoclips, or electrocautery) in 19 dogs. Hemostatic technique (ie, use of a VSD vs conventional hemostatic techniques) was the only factor significantly associated with operative duration (median time, 28 vs 41 minutes). Postoperative hospitalization times and complication rates did not differ between groups. Results suggested that use of a VSD, rather than conventional hemostatic techniques, in dogs undergoing thyroidectomy because of suspected thyroid carcinoma resulted in shorter operative times without significantly affecting complication rates or postoperative hospitalization times.