Surgical management of refractory nasal aspergillosis using iodine cadexomer dressings in three dogs.

BACKGROUND: This case series describes surgical management of nasal aspergillosis refractory to conventional medical management or with evidence of cribriform plate osteolysis in three dogs.

METHODS: All dogs had surgical debridement of mucosa, nasal turbinates and necrotic debris via dorsal sinusotomy/rhinotomy. Sinuses were packed with iodine cadexomer-impregnated bandages for several weeks and affixed with tie-over bandages. Bandage changes were performed under sedation in 2/3 cases. Once mature granulation tissue covered all exposed bone, the tie-over bandages were removed and the sinusotomy/rhinotomy closed by apposing the skin edges.

CONCLUSION: This technique was well tolerated, effective and afforded a cure in all three patients. It should be considered in cases of cribriform lysis or lack of clinical response to conventional medical management.