Cranial Vena Cava Syndrome in a Retriever Dog Receiving CPN through Central Venous Catheter

A 5-year-old castrated male Golden Retriever dog weighing 15 kg presented with evidence of intestinal intussusception. The patient had cachexia and severe dehydration before being referred to our department. Ultrasound imaging revealed a target sign indicative of intestinal intussusception. Emergency surgery was performed shortly after diagnosis. After a successful surgery, the patient was hospitalised for postoperative care. Initial treatment was aimed at the reversion of dehydration and the provision of adequate nutrition. Fluid therapy and central parenteral nutrition were administered via the peripheral and central venous catheters, respectively. Ten days postoperatively, swelling and edema were observed in the head and neck. Ultrasound and computed tomography confirmed complete blockage of the cranial vena cava due to thrombosis, which consequently obstructed both the left and right jugular veins. For treatment, dalteparin and tissue plasminogen activator were administered. However, the patient lost all of its vital function on the daybreak of postoperative day 11. Venous thrombus formation secondary to central parenteral nutrition application via the central line is a rare but possible complication. Veterinarians who are concerned about taking care of patients receiving CPN through the central line should keep the possibility of venous thrombus formation in mind.