PURPOSE: Evaluate the use of feline autologous pericardium to correct diaphragmatic defects. METHODS: Twelve male and female, adult, mixed breed, domestic cats were used weighing between 2 and 4 kilogram. The surgical procedure consisted of thoracotomy of the 7th left intercostal space, removal of a pericardium graft of approximately 2,0 x 4,0 cm and the graft was sutured in a defect of the same size in the diaphragm. Six animals were observed for a period of 30 days postoperatively and six for 60 days. After this period they were submitted to euthanasia for macroscopic observation and sample collection for histological evaluation. RESULTS: Partial substitution of the pericardium was observed 30 days postoperatively, and total substituition 60 days after surgery allowing the complete reestablishment of the diaphragm. Macroscopically, presence of adherence with the lung and parietal pleura and the graft was verified in the thoracic cavity, and with the liver and omentum in the abdominal cavity, however, with no clinical consequences of the involved structures. CONCLUSION: The autograft in felines can be used to repair diaphragmatic defects, once it supports the gradient of pressure of the diaphragm and it is substituted by connective tissue, without presenting clinical and histological signs of rejection.
Thorax; Surgery; Cat; Graft
