Abstract
A recent publication outlined the successful outcome of hepatectomy as treatment for liver lobe torsion in four domestic rabbits.1 Nine cases of liver lobe torsion have been diagnosed in rabbits at Angell Animal Medical Center since 2007. Data from these cases, previously reported cases of hepatic torsion in rabbits, as well as archived pathology data from Northwest ZooPath and Zoo/Exotic Pathology Service will be discussed. Typical clinical presentation of rabbits with liver lobe torsion is non-specific and can mimic generalized ileus. Bloodwork and ultrasound are helpful for diagnosis of liver lobe torsion in rabbits. Prompt diagnosis and hepatectomy are recommended to ensure the best chance of a positive outcome.
Literature Cited
1. Stanke, N.J., J.E. Graham, C.J. Orcutt, C.J. Reese, B.K. Betz, P.J. Ewing, J Basseches. Successful outcome of hepatectomy as treatment for liver lobe torsion in four domestic rabbits. JAVMA 238(9):1176–1183.