Combined use of polypropylene mesh and collagen sponge in the surgical repair of perineal hernia with rectal diverticulum in a dog

The present case report details on the treatment of a complicated surgery of perineal hernia accompanied by rectal diverticulum in a 5-year-old, neutered male Maltese terrier. The dog presented with dyschezia, tenesmus and a painful swelling in the left perineal area. Radiographs revealed a faeces-filled sac in the perineal region and an enlarged rectum, confirming the diagnosis of perineal hernia and rectal diverticulum. Surgical intervention included diverticulectomy and herniorrhaphy using biomaterials (polypropylene mesh and collagen-based sponges) to reinforce the hernia repair. Postoperatively, carprofen and ceftriaxone were administered and recovery was closely monitored. At the 60-day follow-up, the dog exhibited no complications and no recurrence was reported over a one-year period. The use of polypropylene mesh along with collagen-based sponges enhanced healing. This case highlights the efficacy of biomaterials in complex, chronic hernia cases in dogs, where traditional surgical techniques may be insufficient.