Gastropexy Outcome Assessment in Canine Patients

A veterinary research team needed to evaluate long-term outcomes of prophylactic grid gastropexies in dogs through a retrospective study. The primary focus was understanding complications and risk factors while determining the optimal sample size for follow-up ultrasound examinations to assess permanent adhesions. 

• Design a retrospective research framework for gastropexy outcomes

• Determine statistically valid sample size requirements

• Assess long-term complications and risk factors

• Evaluate permanent adhesions through ultrasound imaging

• Analyse multiple surgical and patient parameters

1. Literature Review and Analysis

• Examined comparable surgical procedures

• Identified relevant outcome metrics

• Evaluated existing complication rates

• Mapped key success indicators

2. Parameter Identification

• Selected critical evaluation factors

• Established age-related variables

• Incorporated surgical timing metrics

• Included anaesthesia duration data

3. Statistical Framework Development

• Conducted comprehensive power analysis

• Set 80% confidence threshold

• Calculated required sample size

• Designed follow-up assessment protocol

Quantitative Outcomes

• Statistically valid sample size determination

• Follow-up protocol for >1 year post-surgery

• Systematic evaluation of permanent adhesions

• Data-driven risk factor analysis

Qualitative Benefits

• Enhanced understanding of long-term outcomes

• Improved patient selection criteria

• Standardised follow-up methodology

• Evidence-based surgical success metrics

"The comprehensive statistical framework and power analysis provided us with the confidence to pursue our retrospective study effectively, enabling us to determine the precise number of patients needed for meaningful follow-up assessments of gastropexy outcomes."

Dr Roxanna Neo, Lead Veterinary Researcher

• Initial Literature Review: 2 weeks

• Parameter Analysis: 1 week

• Statistical Framework: 2 weeks

• Protocol Development: 1 week

Future development of risk prediction models and expansion of the assessment protocol to include additional surgical techniques and patient populations. Continued monitoring of long-term outcomes to refine surgical approaches and patient care protocols.