Iatrogenic colonic serosal tear associated with a Foley catheter used for faecal diversion in a dog

Abstract A 10‐year‐old, male, neutered Yorkshire terrier was presented for acute vomiting and haematochezia and was initially diagnosed with acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea syndrome. Symptomatic management, including intravenous fluid therapy, analgesia and placement of a rectally positioned Foley catheter for faecal diversion, was instituted. Despite these interventions, the dog's clinical condition deteriorated. Abdominal ultrasound revealed free peritoneal gas and peritoneal fluid. Exploratory laparotomy identified a 60‐cm segment of necrotic jejunum and diffuse abdominal adhesions, which were managed by resection and anastomosis. A focal discoloration and 3‐cm serosal tear were identified in the descending colon at the site of an indwelling Foley catheter. The colonic mucosa remained intact, and the serosal defect was surgically repaired. Anaerobic culture of the peritoneal fluid yielded Enterococcus faecium . This case highlights an iatrogenic complication associated with rectal Foley catheter use and emphasises the need for caution regarding balloon inflation, management and monitoring during faecal diversion.