Abstract

The efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided percutaneous transhepatic catheterization was investigated in order to provide central venous access in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). The ability to obtain central venous access in dolphins is difficult due to the lack of substantial peripheral veins and the periarterial vascular rete system. The bottlenose dolphin has a large liver and hepatic veins that can be easily visualized via ultrasound. Using local anesthesia and ultrasound guidance, a 6Fr peripherally inserted central venous catheter (PICC) was placed into the hepatic vein and advanced to the caudal vena cava. Catheter insertion occurred between the 5-6 intercostal space using an over-the-wire peel-away sheath introducer technique. The catheter provided a means to measure central venous blood pressure, and administer medications and fluids. When possible, the hepatic parenchyma tract was embolized with Gelfoam during the removal of the catheter.

Percutaneous transhepatic catheterization was performed without complications a total of 6 times on two different male adult dolphins. Catheterization was performed on both the right and left lateral sides of the dolphin and the catheters remained patent until they were removed, up to 6 hours. The transhepatic catheter provided safe and effective short-term access to central venous system in the bottlenose dolphin.

Acknowledgements

We thank our colleagues, staff, trainers, and research department at the U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program and the U.S. Army Animal Care Specialists and for their crucial assistance in the implementation and execution of these procedures. We also thank John Burke from Cook Medical for catheter supplies and assistance.