[Lolasmom1211]

Originally Posted by kjc

Okay, a vet called me back, and my fax picked it up and disconnected us! This can't be good.... calling him back....

It's operable! It's a Splenocaval extrahepatic shunt (there are 3 types). Here's a link to what it looks like (includes US videos):

Complications after surgical attenuation of congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts in dogs can be prevented by intraoperative Doppler ultrasonographic assessment of portal hemodynamics - (c) Veterinary Sciences Tomorrow


Normal liver:

Attachment 338584

Splenocaval extrahepatic shunt:

Attachment 338585

What to do now? They recommend "L/D, Lactulose, and metronidazole until surgical intervention can occur in which Ameroid Constrictor therapy placement, liver biopsy and cysotomy should all be performed with apropriate analysis and histopathology to rule out concurrent MVD".

I told him to call the specialist and set up a consult.... and now the bad news: he's guessing it may run over $4000.00.

Waiting some more... and see. but

Oh and Thanks to all who responded for the well wishes.... please keep Tinky in your prayers....

So sorry to hear about your little one. My baby girl had a shunt, was diagnosed at 13 months, and went to UT (Dr Tobias) to have the Ameroid Constrictor placed in 3/09. Even with airfare, hotel and surgery - including scintigraphy, the cost was less than $4000.00, and I felt so comfortable with UT doing the surgery. It's my understanding that it's the aftercare that is so critical with these tiny babies. They were so kind at UT and my Lola is doing great. I left Houston on Wednesday evening and was back home Sunday afternoon. Good luck to you and your little one!