title: Diaphragmatic support of a thoracic wall defect in a dog.
abstract: A large, caudal thoracic mass was removed along with ribs 11 and 12, resulting in an approximate 16 x 14-cm, caudal thoracic wall defect in a dog. The diaphragmatic musculature was mobilized and used to support the thoracic wall defect. To our knowledge, this method of thoracic wall repair has not been previously reported. This procedure allowed for airtight closure of the thoracic cavity, provided physical support, eliminated the need for muscle flaps or commercially available meshes, and provided a good cosmetic appearance without negatively affecting the dog's athletic performance.
authors.affiliation: Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, 1600 South 16th Street, Ames, Iowa 50011-1250, USA.
authors.forename: Angela
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Hall
authors.forename: Mauricio
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Dujowich
authors.forename: David F
authors.initials: DF
authors.lastname: Merkley
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D004285:Dogs / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000637:transplantation*; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000662:veterinary; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013526:Surgical Mesh; D019616:Thoracic Surgical Procedures / Q000662:veterinary; D035441:Thoracic Wall / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome