Epidemiological Study of Mortality Rates in Animals During and After Surgery at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of Islamic Azad University, Kazeroon Branch (۱۳۷۹-۱۴۰۴): Analysis of Contributing Factors

Introduction Surgical procedures in veterinary medicine are essential for treating a wide variety of conditions in both small and large animals. However, surgical interventions, especially those involving high-risk patients, can lead to significant mortality. Understanding the factors that contribute to surgical mortality is critical for improving outcomes and ensuring the health and well-being of animals under veterinary care. This study aims to investigate the mortality rates during and after surgery at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of Islamic Azad University, Kazeroon Branch, and to analyze the primary factors influencing these outcomes. Materials and Methods This retrospective study examined ۲,۸۰۰ animal surgical records from the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of Islamic Azad University, Kazeroon, spanning from ۱۳۷۹ to ۱۴۰۴. All cases involving surgical interventions were included, with data extracted regarding animal species, breed, age, pre-existing health conditions, type of surgery, anesthesia protocols, and post-operative management. Mortality was defined as death occurring during surgery or within ۳۰ days following the surgical procedure. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression were used to identify associations between patient factors and surgical mortality. Results Out of the ۲,۸۰۰ surgical cases, ۱۱۸ resulted in mortality, yielding an overall mortality rate of ۴.۲%. The highest mortality rates were observed in older animals (over ۸ years of age), with a rate of ۷.۱%, compared to younger animals (۲.۳%). Furthermore, specific breeds such as large-breed dogs and horses exhibited higher mortality rates, particularly in complex surgeries such as orthopedic (۷.۹%) and abdominal (۵.۴%) procedures. A significant association was found between pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., heart disease, renal failure) and increased mortality risk (odds ratio = ۳.۱, p<۰.۰۵). Surgical complications, including hemorrhage (۲۸%), infection (۲۱%), and anesthesia complications (۱۸%), were identified as the leading causes of mortality. Discussion The findings from this study confirm that mortality in veterinary surgeries is influenced by a combination of animal factors (age, breed, health status) and procedural aspects (type of surgery, anesthesia management). Older animals and those with underlying conditions, such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes, are more vulnerable to surgical risks. Additionally, complex surgeries, particularly those requiring extensive anesthesia, pose a higher risk for complications and mortality. These results align with previous studies suggesting that the success of veterinary surgeries is heavily dependent on the pre-operative assessment and the surgeon's ability to manage complications in high-risk cases. Moreover, the importance of post-operative care cannot be overstated. Inadequate monitoring and delayed intervention in post-operative complications such as infection or organ dysfunction were identified as contributing factors to mortality. The study underscores the need for strict post-surgical protocols, including continuous monitoring of vital signs, early identification of complications, and timely medical interventions. Conclusion This study highlights the critical factors influencing mortality rates in veterinary surgery. By improving pre-surgical evaluation, optimizing anesthesia management, and ensuring meticulous post-operative care, it is possible to reduce mortality rates and improve overall surgical outcomes. Further research is needed to establish more refined protocols for high-risk surgeries, particularly for older animals and those with pre-existing health issues. Recommendations ۱. Enhanced Pre-Surgical Screening: Implement thorough diagnostic evaluations, including imaging and blood tests, to assess the overall health status and risks associated with the animal prior to surgery. ۲. Tailored Anesthesia Protocols: Develop age and species-specific anesthesia protocols to minimize anesthetic risks. ۳. Post-Surgical Monitoring: Establish a standardized post-operative care program that includes intensive monitoring of vital parameters and early intervention for complications. ۴. Training and Education: Continuous professional development for veterinary surgeons and staff on the latest surgical techniques and post-operative care practices.

کلیدواژه ها:

Mortality ، Veterinary Surgery ، Epidemiology ، Surgical Complications ، Anesthesia Management ، Post-operative Care ، Risk Assessment