Assessing Novel Imaging Technique for Intestinal Obstructions in Cats Scientific Title: Assessing Small Intestinal Viability in Feline Small Intestinal Foreign Body Obstructions with Real-time, Near-infrared Fluorescence (NIRF) Quantification

SUMMARY: Researchers will assess whether a novel intraoperative imaging technique can successfully measure if the intestine is compromised and warrants removal in cases of small intestine foreign-body obstructions in cats. 

THE PROBLEM: Cats with small intestine obstructions commonly go to the hospital for emergency surgery. These obstructions cause increased pressure within the intestine that can damage the blood supply and cause damage to the intestine. Surgeons subjectively determine intestinal health during surgery by evaluating color, thickness, pulse and intestine contraction. While this information is valuable, it does not provide the surgeon with definitive data to decide whether to leave or remove the intestine. Failure to remove unhealthy tissue during surgery can lead to intestinal holes, abdominal infection, and death. A significantly worse prognosis and substantial pet owner financial burden are likely if the cat then needs a second surgery to rectify the situation, prompting many pet owners to opt for euthanasia. 

THE PROJECT: Near-infrared fluorescence imaging is a safe and quick technique that subjectively and objectively measures full-thickness tissue blood supply during human colorectal surgery. Real-time data provided during the procedure has modified a surgeon's operative plan in up to 40% of human emergency intestinal surgery cases using NIRF. Researchers want to know if NIRF could also be a valuable tool for veterinary surgeons to use in cases of foreign body intestinal obstructions to help improve outcomes.  

POTENTIAL IMPACT: If NIRF proves to be a successful imaging tool, it could significantly improve how surgeons determine small intestinal health during foreign body obstruction surgeries. This could help reduce the complications and death of cats undergoing these surgeries. Findings could also inform further studies on dogs with intestinal obstructions.