Step by Step Guides

Endo-Sof Subcutaneous
Catheter Set

1. Place the animal under a short-acting anaesthetic
2. Clip and prep a 5cm square on the dorsum of the neck
3. Make a 5mm longitudinal incision in the centre of the prepared area
4. Pass the distal tip to the catheter subcutaneously directed caudally and 1-2cm to one side of the dorsal midline.
5. Remove the stylet
6. Suture the catheter adapter to the skin. One or sutures are placed through each hole in the wings. Several other sutures may also be placed to further anchor the catheter. A ‘Purse-sting’ suture is placed around the proximal end of the catheter. Others are used to anchor the body of the adaptor to the skin. It is important to use soft, non-dissolvable suture material.
7. Insert the short stylet and cap into the catheter after placement (two are included) and lock in place. This stylet maintains rigidity at the proximal end of the device, making it difficult for the animal to dislodge. Send both stylets home with the client to allow for exchange between feedings.
8. Antibiotic cover should be administered approximately 48 hours following catheter placement. This may take the form of oral or an injectable antibiotic, which can be administered through the catheter. To achieve optimal dispersion throughout the catheter, add approximately 2ml of the chosen subcutaneous fluid to the calculated dose of antibiotic.
9. It is important that the first treatment not be painful to the animal, or it will likely object to further treatments. Therefore, do not give the first dose of fluids for approximately 48 hours post-op. The subcutaneous tissue maybe somewhat tender from the insertion process. This 48-hour delay permits soreness to diminish.

Equipment list

FSQ712 7 French, 12cm long fenestrated subcutaneous catheter set
FSQ718 7 French, 18cm long fenestrated subcutaneous catheter set
FSQ725 7 French, 25cm long fenestrated subcutaneous catheter set

The Pet Owners Suggested Instructions for use

The Endo-Sof Subcutaneous Catheter Set is designed to allow you to administer fluids to your pet without the discomfort of a needle stick. It is composed of a patented material, Endo-Sof, which is designed to be compatible with body tissue for up to one year.

The Catheter is inserted with your pet under a short-acting anaesthetic. The catheter enters the skin at the top of the neck and is passed under the skin along the middle of the back. It has many tiny holes throughout its length that allows fluids to be delivered over a broad area. The catheter port is sutured to the skin with non-absorbable sutures.

Fluids can be delivers at their maximum flow rate. However, some animals can find rapid administration uncomfortable. Therefore, you should try different flow rates and judge your pet’s reaction. Be sure the fluids are at room temperature or slightly warmer. Cold fluids are not well tolerated by animals.

Always closely follow your veterinarians instructions on how this is to be performed.

Technique for Fluid Administration

1. Place your pet in a comfortable position on your lap or in a chair
2. Hang the bag of fluids about 2-3 feet above your pet
3. Remove the needle or cap from the end of the IV tubing
4. Remove the cap from the catheter
5. Insert the end of the IV tubing into the catheter port without it touching anything else. This prevents contamination
6. Run the fluids at the rate determined by your vet, to be the best balance between comfort and speed
7. Replace the caps on the catheter and IV line when the procedure is complete

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