It's been an incredibly long day. I just got back from visiting the internal medicine vet. It looks as if Gigi has an extrahepatic shunt. I feel like I've been punched in the gut. I knew there was chance that this was a possibility given the BAT results but still not what I wanted to hear.
Normal bloodwork but BAT is 136. The vet conducted Protein C level and fasting ammonia testing. Gigi's ammonia was elevated at 206umol/L (normal range 0-98). Results of Protein C should be in next week. Ultrasound revealed an abnormal blood vessel which points to a suspected portosystemic shunt.
Currently, Gigi's treatment is as follows:
Oral lactulose
Metronidazone (to decrease bacterial ammonia production)
Low protein diet- Hill's prescription L/D)
Denamarin and ursodiol (Antioxidant drugs for the liver)
We discussed medical management versus surgery. The Vet advised surgical correction is widely successful in puppies. Gigi just turned 6 in August. She said in an older dog, the risk of post operative seizures and DEATH is significantly higher.
I can't imagine being without her.
I'm waiting on the Protein C results to see if this can further confirm a liver shunt. I've also asked the vet to reach out to Dr. Tobias. At this point, I want to make an informed decision as to what would be the best course of treatment for Gigi. Has anyone's furbaby had this surgery who is around Gigi's age?
Please continue to pray!
Erica