Adenocarcinoma de saco anal com metástase vertebro-medular em um Cocker Spaniel / Anal sac adenocarcinoma with vertebromedullary metastasis in a Cocker Spaniel

Background: Several neoplasms can affect the perianal region, being the hepatic adenoma and the anal sac adenocarcinoma (ASAC), which is considered the most frequent. The ASAC is a malignant neoplasm originating from the secretory epithelium of the perianal apocrine glands and is rarely seen in veterinary medicine. The ASAC occurs mainly in adult to elderly canines with high metastasis rates. Patients may be asymptomatic or manifest discomfort and behavioral changes. In the presence of metastasis, the most frequent clinical signs are inappetence, coughing, dyspnea, and colorectal obstruction. Given this scenario, this paper aims to describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic examination, and necropsy findings of a Cocker Spaniel with ASAC and metastasis in the vertebral body, spinal cord, and cauda equina. Case: A 8-year-old neutered male Cocker Spaniel (12 kg of body mass) with a clinical history of non-ambulatory paraparesis was evaluated. The patient also presented tenesmus, difficulty to defecate, and the presence of nodules in the anal sac area. On the neurological examination, asymmetrical changes compatible with injury between L4-S3 were found. A complete blood count, serum biochemistry, and imaging exams such as plain radiography, abdominal ultrasonography (US), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were requested. Blood count revealed anemia and neutrophilic leukocytosis and hypercalcemia. The liver showed increased echogenicity and thickened pancreas in the abdominal US scan. A slightly heterogeneous, vascularized mass with irregular borders was identified in the topographic region of the sublumbar lymph nodes; MRI images demonstrated an expansile formation in the ventral region of the lumbosacral spine, corresponding to the sublumbar lymph nodes and interruption of the cerebrospinal fluid at L5, suggestive of compression of the spinal cord and cauda equina. A presumptive diagnosis of perianal neoplasm with metastasis was made based on the complementary exams. The dog was referred to necropsy, which revealed a 4 cm tumor in the perianal region that invaded the pelvic canal. Multifocal nodules were present on the lung surface, liver, and kidneys, suggesting metastasis. On the cross-section of the spine, one could note the presence of the tumor in the vertebral bodies, spinal cord, and cauda equina from L5 to S3. Even with histopathological evaluation of the tumor, only the immunohistochemical analysis allowed us to confirm the anal sac adenocarcinoma. Discussion: Adenomas and carcinomas are perianal gland neoplasms common in adult and elderly male dogs; the Cocker Spaniel breed is among the most affected. The clinical signs presented by the patient, such as tenesmus and difficulty in adopting the posture of defecation, are common, although neurological changes are rare. As for metastasis, carcinomas of the perianal region present high chances of metastasis to organs including the liver, kidneys, and lungs, both lymphatically and hematogenously, but few studies have related these factors to neurological alterations due to metastasis. We concluded that metastases from carcinomas to the spine must be considered a possible differential diagnosis in cases of patients presenting clinical signs that are compatible with spinal cord compression and a history of previous neoplasm.

Malignant tumor of peripheral nerve sheath in the thoracolumbar region in a cat

Background: In veterinary medicine, peripheral nerve tumors (PNST) are classified from the cellular pattern and as benign and malignant (MPNST). The majorities of cases are benign and usually involve the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the head, neck, and limbs. Animals with MPTNS usually have spinal cord and spinal canal involvement and are also described in the small and large intestine, oral cavity, perirenal region, and urinary bladder. Treatment is performed according to the location of the neoplasm and metastasis is rarely described. The present article aims to report a case of a malignant tumor in the peripheral nerve sheath of a cat. Case: A 8-year-old domestic cat was presented with a history of progressive paresis in the pelvic limbs. On neurological evaluation, proprioceptive ataxia and proprioception deficit in the pelvic limbs were observed, suggestive of thoracolumbar injury. Blood work and serum biochemistry showed results within the reference for the species and the bi-directional immunochromatography test for FIV and FeLV were negative. The radiographs of the thoracolumbar segment did not show significant changes. Myelography with iodinated contrast and collection of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were performed. On myelography examination, iodinated contrast loss was found between the 6th and 7th thoracic vertebrae, while the CSF analysis was normal. The patient underwent laminectomy and durotomy for excision of a mass found dorsally to the spinal cord, with intradural location. The tumor was sent for histopathological examination. Microscopic analysis showed neoplastic proliferation of spindle-shaped cells with predominance of the Antoni A pattern. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated intense cytoplasmic staining of the neoplastic cells for vimentin and S100 protein. Based on these findings, the diagnosis of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor was made. Radiotherapy was suggested as adjuvant treatment after surgical procedure. However, the owner refuse to follow this recommendation due to cost restriction. The patient had a satisfactory clinical recovery, he has no longer presented proprioceptive ataxia or proprioception deficits in three months after the surgical procedure. Discussion: In the case described, the feline patient presented a history, clinical signs, and findings in the myelography exam related to MPNST in the region of the vertebral canal. This neoplasm usually involves the spinal canal or spinal cord, but has been described in other locations, such in the small and large intestine, oral cavity, perirenal region, and urinary bladder. Based on the findings of the physical examination and complementary exams, a surgical procedure was recommended. Then, laminectomy and dutoromy were performed to remove the mass. The treatment described in the literature in cases of MPTNS is surgery, which can be curative, but in some cases, the use of radiotherapy may be necessary. The histological patterns observed in this neoplasm are the Antoni A and B, in the case described the Antoni A pattern was observed. The definitive diagnosis was made by immunohistochemistry with vimentin and S100 protein. MPNST are few described in the thoracolumbar region in cats. The surgical treatment was curative, where improvement of the clinical signs could be observed three months after surgery. In addition, monitoring of patients is recommended to ascertain relapses and metastases.

Physiological gait test: an effective method for analyzing balance, locomotion, and neuromuscular disorders in rats and a comparison to the elevated beam test / Teste de marcha fisiológica: um método eficaz para analisar distúrbios de equilíbrio, locomoção e neuromusculares em roedores

The evaluation of animal locomotor activity is a behavioral tool widely used to measure the mechanisms underlying a particular disease, disorder, or injury, as well as the effects of exposure to a xenobiotic. The elevated beam test is one of the most used tests in rodents to assess balance and motor coordination. Despite being inexpensive and utilizing a simple apparatus, the high beam test requires a long period of animal training and habituation. The development and characterization of an alternative test, namely the gait test, has the potential to circumvent the time and effort required for animal training, deeming it an effective, inexpensive, and fast method for the analysis of behaviors that are comparably assessed by the high beam test. Therefore, the present study focused on determining the effectiveness and feasibility of the gait test for assessing rodent locomotion and balance as a replacement for the elevated beam test. For this purpose, male rats were divided into three groups: one control group exposed to a saline solution (NaCl 0.9%) and two experimental groups exposed to a single dose of either 0.2 or 1.0 mg/kg of ivermectin intraperitoneally for induction of locomotor disturbance. The high beam and gait tests were performed 15 min and 24 h after drug administration. Results show that the experimental groups had difficulty performing the tasks of either test at both time points analyzed compared to the control groups. At the high beam, experimental animals had trouble maintaining balance and walking. At the gait test, experimental animals showed alterations in gait, which were quantitated by: (a) shortening of step length, (b) decrease of stride, (c) altered step symmetry, and (d) altered stride area. Such results are indicative of compensatory efforts and were comparable between both tests. Altogether, the data indicate that the gait test meets all requirements for assessing motor coordination in rodents. The gait test is therefore validated as a complement to the elevated beam test for the study and analysis of neurodegenerative impairment and other disorders involving neuromuscular disturbances.(AU)

A avaliação da atividade locomotora animal é uma ferramenta comportamental bastante utilizada para mensurar os mecanismos subjacentes a uma determinada doença, distúrbio ou lesão e efeitos da exposição a um xenobiótico. Um dos testes mais utilizados em roedores para avaliar o equilíbrio e coordenação motora é o teste da trave elevada que, apesar de ser um teste barato e que exige um aparato simples, é necessário um longo período de treino e habituação dos animais. O desenvolvimento e caracterização de um teste alternativo, chamado de teste da marcha, tem o potencial de contornar o tempo e o esforço necessários ao treino dos animais, considerando-o um método eficaz, barato e rápido para a análise de comportamentos avaliados comparativamente pelo alto teste de feixe. Portanto, o presente estudo concentrou-se em determinar a eficácia e viabilidade do teste de marcha para avaliação da locomoção e equilíbrio de roedores em substituição ao teste da trave elevada. Para isso, ratos machos foram divididos em 3 grupos, sendo 1 grupo controle exposto à solução salina (NaCl 0,9%) e 2 grupos experimentais expostos à dose única de 0,2 e 1,0 mg/kg de ivermectina por via intraperitoneal para indução da alteração locomotora. Os testes de trave elevada e marcha foram realizados 15 min e 24 h após a administração da droga. Os resultados mostram que os grupos experimentais tiveram dificuldade em realizar as tarefas de qualquer teste em ambos os momentos analisados em comparação com os grupos de controle. Na trave elevada, os animais experimentais tiveram dificuldade em manter o equilíbrio e andar. No teste de marcha, os animais experimentais apresentaram alterações na marcha, que foram quantificadas por: (a) encurtamento do comprimento da passada, (b) diminuição da passada, (c) alteração da simetria da passada e (d) alteração da área da passada. Tais resultados são indicativos de esforços compensatórios e foram comparáveis entre os dois testes. Em conjunto, os dados indicam que o teste de marcha atende a todos os requisitos para avaliação da coordenação motora em roedores. O teste de marcha é, portanto, validado como um complementar para o teste da trave elevada e para o estudo e análise de comprometimento neurodegenerativo e outros distúrbios envolvendo distúrbios neuromusculares.(AU)

Empiema epidural espinhal em gato com suspeita de linfoma em canal vertebral / Spinal epidural empyema in a cat with suspect of spinal canal lymphoma

Background: Spinal epidural empyema (SEE) is a rare disease in cats that has been described as a cause of severe compressive myelopathy. It is characterized by accumulation of purulent exudate in the form of an abscess in the epidural space. Neurological signs range from spinal hyperesthesia to rapidly progressive paraplegia and may be associated with systemic signs. Spinal lymphoma is the most common neoplasm affecting the central nervous system of cats and can mimic different neoplasms and non-neoplastic diseases, such as SEE. The aim of this study is to report a case of SEE in a cat and highlight the similarities in neurological, laboratory, and imaging findings between this disease and spinal lymphoma. Case: A 8-month-old male neutered mixed-breed cat was referred to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (HVU) of the UFSM with acute, non-progressive paraplegia. On neurological examination, the patient was paraplegic with no nociception, normal spinal reflexes, increased muscle tone in the pelvic limbs, absence of cutaneous trunci reflex, and spinal hyperesthesia between T13-L1, demonstrating injury in the T3-L3 spinal cord segment. The differential diagnoses included acute spinal cord trauma, neoplasm (lymphoma), and infectious diseases. Hemogram showed lymphocytosis (8062/µL); the biochemical examinations were unremarkable. Tests for antibodies against feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) antigens were negative. Simple radiography, abdominal ultrasonography, and cerebrospinal fluid findings were also normal. Myelography showed left dorsolateral extradural spinal cord compression from T12 to L1. Based on these findings, the presumptive diagnosis was spinal lymphoma and chemotherapy was initiated. After 2 days, the animal began to show hyporexia, adipsia, vomiting, and diarrhea, in addition to an increase in subcutaneous volume in the thoracolumbar region. Antibiotic therapy was initiated; however, the patient died. Necropsy revealed an abscess in the left dorsolateral extradural space at T12-T13 and T13-L1. Bacterial cultures revealed the presence of Neisseria spp. that was resistant to various antibiotics. On the basis of these findings, the animal was diagnosed with SEE. Discussion: This case report aims to inform veterinarians about the diagnosis of SEE. SEE is a rare condition in cats compared to spinal lymphoma; however, their presentation is similar. Even in imaging examinations, such as magnetic resonance imaging, it is not possible to differentiate between these 2 conditions. The evolution of clinical signs made the diagnosis of the present case difficult since it was acute and not progressive. All cases of SEE reported in the literature were progressive, acute, or chronic. Although testing for FeLV was negative, only 56% of cats with spinal lymphoma test positive for this virus. Clinical signs reported by the owner after the start of chemotherapy may be related to adverse effects, such as immunosuppression, which led to worsening of the condition, culminating in the appearance of a subcutaneous abscess. Subsequently, SEE was suspected; however, surgical decompression was not performed as the animal died soon after. The authors of this report reinforce the need for a definitive and non-presumptive diagnosis of spinal lymphoma to initiate chemotherapy because it mimics different neoplasms and non-neoplastic diseases, such as SEE. Surgical removal of the compressive mass in the spinal cord and histopathological analyses are necessary.

Physical therapy modalities in the rehabilitation of cats (Felis catus) with neurological and orthopedic conditions / Modalidades terapêuticas na reabilitação de gatos (Felis catus) com doenças neurológicas e ortopédicas

This retrospective study described the therapeutic modalities used for the rehabilitation of cats with neurological and orthopedic diseases and provided data regarding the number of sessions, frequency, and treatment duration; the study also evaluated the modality acceptance by this species. Twenty cats were selected, 11 with neurological diseases and nine with orthopedic conditions. Acute spinal cord trauma and femoral fracture were the most frequently observed neurological (72.7%) and orthopedic (44.4%) conditions, respectively. Manual therapies comprised of passive stretching (PS), passive range of motion (PROM), and bicycle movement (BM) exercises were included in all the protocols.Therapeutic modality acceptance was positive for physical agents, thermotherapy, and hydrotherapy (100%);in manual therapies, it was positive in 40% and partially positive in 60% of cats; in kinesiotherapy, it was positive for all the assisted active exercises and negative for the active exercises. The number of physical therapy sessions significantly influenced the positive acceptance of PS (P < 0.05). The PS, PROM, and BM exercises were the most commonly used modalities; the number of physiotherapy sessions and duration of treatment were higher in cats with neurological diseases, and acceptance was positive in most therapeutic modalities.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo retrospectivo foi descrever as modalidades terapêuticas utilizadas na reabilitação de gatos com doenças neurológicas e ortopédicas em um centro de reabilitação, fornecer dados referentes ao número de sessões, a frequência, a duração do tratamento e avaliar a aceitação das modalidades pela espécie. Foram selecionados 20 gatos, sendo, 11 com doenças neurológicas e nove com afecções ortopédicas. O trauma agudo de medula espinhal e a fratura de fêmur foram as doenças neurológicas (72,7%) e ortopédicas (44,4%) mais observadas, respectivamente. As terapias manuais compostas pelos exercícios de alongamento passivo (AP), movimentação passiva articular (MPA) e movimento em bicicleta (MB) foram incluídas em 100% dos protocolos. A aceitação das modalidades terapêuticas foi positiva para os agentes físicos, termoterapia e hidroterapia (100%); nas terapias manuais, foi positiva em 40% e parcialmente positiva em 60% dos gatos e, na cinesioterapia, foi positiva para os exercícios ativos assistidos em 100% e negativa para os exercícios ativos. O número de sessões de fisioterapia influenciou significativamente na aceitação positiva do alongamento passivo (P < 0,05). O AP, a MPA, o MB foram as modalidades mais utilizadas; o número de sessões de fisioterapia e a duração do tratamento foram maiores nos gatos com doenças neurológicas e a aceitação foi positiva na maioria das modalidades terapêuticas.

Preliminary mechanical evaluation of two novel veterinary angle-stable-threaded interlocking nail systems / Avaliação mecânica preliminar de dois novos sistemas veterinários de haste intramedular bloqueada em ângulo estável roscada

The interlocking nail represents an excellent option as a surgical approach to treat fractures in long bones in veterinary medicine. However, failures were reported mainly due to a slack present in the interface of the rod with the screws. The present study tested and mechanically compare axial compression loads of two novel models of stable angle interlocking nails with threaded holes. Among the two models, one was uniplanar and the other was multiplanar with orthogonally arranged distal holes. Twenty-one specimens made of polylactic acid were used for the implantation of interlocking nail´s rods, divided into three groups: conventional interlocking nail (G1), novel interlocking nail with a stable angle with holes arranged in a single plane (G2), and novel interlocking nail with a stable angle in two planes, with the penultimate hole at 90 degrees from the others (G3). Biomechanical tests were performed using axial, cyclic, and destructive compression load for comparison between them. All the specimens showed plastic deformation in the screws after destructive tests, in both proximal and distal sides, being highly intense in G1. G2 and G3 of the stable angle rods supported higher loads than G1 in all tests performed (P<0.05). The novel stems did not differ statistically from each other (P>0.05). The initial hypothesis that the novel models would provide increased stability was confirmed; however, no differences were demonstrated between them. The screw locking system on the rods allowed high resistance values in the tests performed, proving to be effective and potentially applicable in real clinical situations.

A haste intramedular bloqueada representa excelente opção para abordagem cirúrgica de fraturas em ossos longos na medicina veterinária. Todavia, falhas decorrentes principalmente de "folga" presente na interface da haste com os parafusos foram relatadas. O presente estudo teve como objetivo testar e comparar mecanicamente, por cargas de compressão axial, dois novos modelos de haste intramedular bloqueada de ângulo estável com orifícios roscados, sendo uma delas uniplanar e outra multiplanar com orifícios distais dispostos ortogonalmente. Vinte e um corpos de prova confeccionados em ácido polilático (PLA) foram utilizados para implantação das hastes intramedulares bloqueadas, divididos em três grupos: Haste bloqueada convencional (G1); haste bloqueada nova de ângulo estável com orifícios dispostos em único plano (G2); haste bloqueada nova de ângulo estável em dois planos, com o penúltimo orifício em 90 graus dos demais (G3). Utilizou-se ensaios biomecânicos por carga de compressão axial, cíclicos e destrutivos, para comparação entre eles. Todos mostraram deformação plástica nos parafusos após testes destrutivos, tanto proximais como distais, sendo mais intensa no grupo 1. Os grupos 2 e 3 das hastes de ângulo estável suportaram cargas superiores em relação ao G1 em todos os testes realizados (P<0.05). As hastes novas não diferiram estatisticamente entre si (P>0,05). A hipótese inicial de que os novos modelos proporcionariam maior estabilidade foi confirmada, entretanto não foi demonstrada diferenças entre eles. O sistema de bloqueio roscado dos parafusos nas hastes permitiu valores elevados de resistência nos testes realizados, mostrando-se efetivo e, potencialmente aplicável em situações clínicas reais.

Focal spinal hyperesthesia as a prognostic factor in paraplegic dogs without deep pain perception / Hiperestesia espinhal focal como fator prognóstico em cães paraplégicos sem percepção de dor profunda

Intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE) is the most common cause of spinal cord compression in dogs, whose prognosis is variable and depends on several factors, with deep pain perception (DPP) being the main parameter used. Investigations of new prognostic factors are studied to assist in the estimation of functional recovery. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate whether spinal hyperesthesia (SH) at the compression site can be used as a prognostic factor for the functional recovery of dogs with acute IVDE (Hansen type I), without DPP being subjected to thoracolumbar hemilaminectomy. Decompression surgery was performed on the same day or the day after admission. The duration of the loss of DPP until surgery performance ranged from 1 to 60 days, with a median of 4.5 days for the group of dogs with SH and 5.5 days for those without SH. Among the 68 dogs included in this retrospective study, 73.5% (50/68) showed SH, and 26.5% (18/68) were not identified. Recovery was satisfactory in 60% (30/50) of dogs with SH and in 27.7% (5/18) of dogs without SH, demonstrating that paraplegic dogs without DPP but with SH were 3.9 times more likely to recover when compared to dogs in the same condition, but with no SH. No studies have evaluated SH by palpation of the spine as a prognostic factor, which reinforces the relevance of the present study. The results of this study imply that SH in paraplegic dogs affected by thoracolumbar IVDE, without the presence of DPP, can be used as a possible prognostic indicator of functional recovery.

A extrusão do disco intervertebral (EDIV) é a causa mais comum de lesão compressiva na medula espinhal de cães, cujo prognóstico é variável e depende de diversos fatores, sendo a percepção de dor profunda (PDP) o principal parâmetro utilizado. Pesquisas de novos fatores prognósticos são estudados com intuito de auxiliar na estimativa mais precisa de recuperação funcional. Com isso, o objetivo do estudo foi avaliar se a hiperestesia espinhal (HE) no local da compressão, pode ser utilizada como um fator prognóstico para recuperação funcional de cães com extrusão aguda do disco intervertebral (Hansen tipo I), sem a presença de PDP submetidos a hemilaminectomia toracolombar. A cirurgia descompressiva ocorreu no mesmo dia ou no dia seguinte ao atendimento. A duração da perda de dor profunda até a realização da cirurgia variou de 1 a 60 dias, com uma mediana de 4,5 dias para o grupo de cães com e 5,5 dias para aqueles sem hiperestesia espinhal. Dos 68 cães incluídos nesse estudo retrospectivo, 73,5% (50/68) apresentavam HE e, em 26,5% (18/68) a dor não foi identificada. A recuperação foi satisfatória nos cães com HE em 60% (30/50) e, sem HE, em 27,7% (5/18) dos casos, demonstrando que os cães paraplégicos sem PDP, mas com presença de hiperestesia espinhal tem 3,9 vezes mais chances de recuperação quando comparado com cães na mesma condição, mas sem HE. Não foram encontrados trabalhos que avaliaram a HE mediante a palpação da coluna vertebral como um fator prognóstico, o que reforça a relevância do presente estudo. Os resultados do presente trabalho sugerem que a HE em cães paraplégicos acometidos por EDIV toracolombar sem presença de PDP pode ser utilizada como um possível indicador prognóstico de recuperação funcional.

Ex vivo biomechanical testing of Funkquist B dorsal laminectomy between the sixth and seventh cervical vertebrae in dogs / Análise biomecânica ex vivo dos efeitos da laminectomia dorsal Funkquist B entre a sexta e a sétima vertebras cervicais em cães

Dorsal laminectomy is routinely performed for spinal cord compressions or stenosis of the cervical vertebral canal. However, despite good results, relevant complications have been described in dogs. Considering the incomplete understanding of the necessity for complementary surgical stabilization after performing laminectomies in the cervical region, this study compared the resistance and range of motion (ROM) of the cervical spinal column subjected to Funkquist B laminectomy between the sixth and seventh vertebrae in dogs. Forty-four cervical vertebral columns (C2-T1) of dogs, with an average weight of 26.2±3.8 kg, were selected using radiography and computed tomography. Four experimental groups (n=11) were established according to the mechanical test: two control groups (flexion and extension control) and two laminectomy groups (flexion and extension laminectomies). Numerical results of the maximum load for measuring the resistance and ROM of the columns of the two control groups and the two laminectomy groups were compared. The laminectomy groups showed a lower maximum load, regardless of the mechanical test performed (P<0.001). The ROM was not influenced by laminectomy, the type of mechanical test (ventral flexion or extension), or its interaction (P<0.05). There was no interaction between the effect of the laminectomy factors (yes or no) and the effect of the mechanical tests for ventral flexion or extension (P<0.05). In conclusion, Funkquist B dorsal cervical laminectomy between C6 and C7 decreases mechanical resistance with a supraphysiological loading force but does not alter the ROM, suggesting that it can be used without additional mechanical stabilization in dogs.

A laminectomia dorsal é realizada com frequência no tratamento de compressões medulares ou estenose do canal vertebral cervical. No entanto, complicações relevantes têm sido descritas em cães. Considerando que ainda não há entendimento completo da necessidade de estabilização cirúrgica complementar após a realização de uma ou múltiplas laminectomias na região cervical, o objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a resistência e amplitude de movimento (ADM) da coluna cervical submetida à laminectomia Funkquist B entre a sexta e a sétima vértebras em cães. Quarenta e quatro colunas vertebrais cervicais (C2-T1) de cães, com peso médio de 26,2 ± 3,8 kg, foram selecionadas por meio de radiografia e tomografia computadorizada. Quatro grupos experimentais (n = 11) foram estabelecidos de acordo com o teste mecânico realizado: dois grupos controle (flexão e extensão controle) e dois grupos laminectomia (flexão e extensão laminectomia). Os resultados numéricos da carga máxima para medir a resistência e ADM das colunas dos dois grupos de controle e dos dois grupos de laminectomia foram comparados. Os grupos de laminectomia apresentaram menores valores de carga máxima, independentemente do teste mecânico realizado (P < 0,001). A ADM não foi influenciada pela laminectomia, tipo de teste mecânico (flexão ou extensão ventral) ou sua interação (P < 0,05). Não houve interação entre o efeito do fator de laminectomia, sim ou não, ou o efeito do teste mecânico na flexão ou extensão ventral (P < 0,05). A laminectomia cervical dorsal Funkquist B entre C6 e C7 diminui a resistência mecânica com uma força de carga suprafisiológica, mas não altera a ADM, sugerindo que pode ser usada sem estabilização mecânica adicional em cães.

Retrospective study on the incidence of cats and dogs' spinal injuries by computed tomographic scan. Part II: Thoracolumbar and lumbosacral / Estudo retrospectivo sobre incidência de injúrias em coluna vertebral de cães e gatos por meio de exame tomográfico. Parte II: Toracolombar e Lombossacral

For vertebromedullary injuries, epidemiological knowledge is essential to guide the choice of the most effective diagnostic method. The objective of this retrospective study was to describe the epidemiological profile of animals and thoracolumbar and lumbosacral spine lesions diagnosed by computed tomography scan. A compilation of CT scan reports for the aforementioned regions performed in a comercial diagnostic center from 04/01/2017 to 04/30/2020, contrasted and non-contrasted, from routine, was performed in order to list the most common lesions and their locations, as well as the species, breeds and ages most affected. There were 1164 CT scans performed in the period evaluated, all of them in dogs, 57,56% (n=670) for the spine, with 89,7% reports accessed (n=601), where the regions mentioned here added up to 73,05% studies (n=439). In both regions, male French Bulldog dogs had the most injuries. For the thoracolumbar region, disk mineralization, followed by extrusion, were the most frequent injuries, while the site was T12-13 and the mean age 6,5±3,63 years old. In the lumbosacral, disk protrusion was most frequent, the most affected site was L7-S1 and age 6,65±3,79 years. It was concluded that the spine is the main target of CT scans, and that lesions related to the intervertebral disk were the main ones identified, with chondrodystrophic animals being more predisposed to injury.

Para lesões vertebromedulares é indispensável o conhecimento epidemiológico para direcionar a escolha do método diagnóstico mais eficaz. O objetivo desse estudo retrospectivo foi descrever o perfil epidemiológico dos animais e das lesões em coluna vertebral toracolombar e lombossacral diagnosticadas através de exame tomográfico. Realizou-se a compilação de laudos de tomografias computadorizadas para as referidas regiões realizadas em centro diagnóstico comercial, entre 01/04/2017 a 30/04/2020, contrastadas e não-contrastadas, provenientes da rotina, a fim de relacionar as lesões e seus locais de ocorrência, bem como a espécie, raças e idades mais comuns. Foram realizados 1164 exames tomográficos no período avaliado, sendo 57,56% (n=670) para a coluna, com 89,7% laudos acessados (n=601), nos quais as regiões toracolombar e lombossacral somaram 73,05% dos estudos (n=439). Em ambas as regiões, os cães Bulldog Francês machos foram os que mais apresentaram lesões. Para a região toracolombar, a mineralização de disco, seguida pela extrusão, foram as lesões mais frequentes, enquanto o local foi T12-13 e a média de idade 6,5±3,63 anos. Na lombossacral, a protusão de disco foi mais frequente, o local mais afetado foi L7-S1 e idade de 6,65±3,79 anos. Concluiu-se que a coluna vertebral é o principal alvo de tomografias, e que as lesões relacionadas ao disco intervertebral foram as principais identificadas, sendo os animais condrodistróficos mais predispostos a lesões.

Retrospective study on the incidence of cats and dogs' spinal injuries by computed tomographic scan. Part I: Cervical and Cervicothoracic / Estudo retrospectivo sobre incidência de injúrias em coluna vertebral de cães e gatos por meio de exame tomográfico. Parte I: Cervical e Cervicotorácica

Injuries involving the spine are frequent in dogs and knowledge of them is important to define the patient's treatment and prognosis. The objective of this retrospective study was to describe the epidemiological profile of animals and lesions in the cervical (C1-5) and cervicothoracic (C6-T2) spine diagnosed through tomographic examination. Compilation of computed tomography (CT) reports for the referred regions was carried out in a diagnostic center between 01/04/2017 and 30/04/2020, with or without contrast, from the clinical routine, in order to relate the most common lesions and their locations, as well as the species, breeds and ages most affected. A total of 1164 CT scans were performed in the period, 57.56% (n=670/1164) for the spine, with 89.7% (n=601/670) reports accessed, where both regions referred to here totaled 26.95% of the studies (n=162/601). Male mixed-breed dogs (MBD) showed the most lesions. For the cervical spine, the most identified lesion was disk extrusion and the site was C3-C4, while the mean age for lesions was 8.09±3.55 years. As for cervicothoracic, disk mineralization was more frequent and the mean age for lesions was 6.96±2.93 years. It was concluded that the spine is the main target of CT scans, that lesions related to the intervertebral disk were the main ones identified, and older MBD animals are the main ones affected.

As lesões envolvendo coluna vertebral são frequentes em animais de companhia, podendo ocorrer à nível vertebral, medula espinal, disco intervertebral, meninges ou raízes nervosas, e o conhecimento das mesmas é importante para definir o tratamento e prognóstico do animal. O objetivo desse estudo retrospectivo foi descrever o perfil epidemiológico dos animais e das lesões em coluna vertebral cervical (C1-5) e cervicotorácica (C6-T2) diagnosticadas por meio de exame tomográfico. Realizou-se a compilação de laudos de tomografias computadorizadas para as referidas regiões realizadas em centro diagnóstico comercial, entre 01/04/2017 a 30/04/2020, contrastadas e não-contrastadas, provenientes da rotina clínica, a fim de relacionar as lesões, raças e locais mais comuns. Foram realizados 1164 exames tomográficos no período avaliado, sendo 57,56% (n=670/1164) para a coluna, com 89,7% dos laudos acessados (n=601/670), sendo que as regiões cervical e cervicotorácica somaram 26,95% dos estudos (n=162/601). Em ambas regiões, os cães sem raça definida (SRD) machos foram os que mais demonstraram lesões. Para a coluna cervical, a lesão mais identificada foi extrusão de disco e o local mais afetado foi C3-C4, enquanto a média de idade para lesões foi 8,09±3,55 anos. Já para cervicotorácica, a mineralização de disco foi mais frequente e média de idade para ocorrência de lesões foi de 6,96±2,93 anos. Concluiu-se que a coluna vertebral foi o principal alvo de tomografias, as lesões relacionadas ao disco intervertebral foram as mais identificadas, sendo animais SRD com idade avançada os mais acometidos.

Use of aerobic treadmill exercises on nerve regeneration after sciatic nerve injury in spontaneously hypertensive rats

Purpose: Various postoperative protocols have been proposed to improve outcomes and accelerate nerve regeneration. Recently, the use of physical exercise in a post-surgical neurorraphy procedure has shown good results when started early. We experimentally investigated the hypothesis that post-operative exercise speeds up results and improves clinical and morphologic parameters. Methods: Isogenic rats were randomly divided into four groups: 1 SHAM; 2 SHAM submitted to the exercise protocol (EP); 3 Grafting of the sciatic nerve; and 4 Grafting of the sciatic nerve associated with the EP. The EP was based on aerobic activities with a treadmill, with a progressive increase in time and intensity during 6 weeks. The results were evaluated by the sciatic functional index (SFI), morphometric and morphologic analysis of nerve distal to the lesion, and the number of spinal cord motor neurons, positive to the marker Fluoro-Gold (FG), captured retrogradely through neurorraphy. Results: Functional analysis (SFI) did not show a statistical difference between the group grafted with (­50.94) and without exercise (-65.79) after 90 days. The motoneurons count (Spinal cord histology) also showed no diference between these groups (834.5 × 833 respectively). Although functionally there is no difference between these groups, morphometric study showed a greater density (53.62) and larger fibers (7.762) in GRAFT group. When comparing both operated groups with both SHAM groups, all values were much lower. Conclusions: The experimental model that this aerobic treadmill exercises protocol did not modify nerve regeneration after sciatic nerve injury and repair with nerve graft.

Hip dislocation in a calf - treatment with iliofemoral suture

Background: Coxofemoral dislocation is uncommon in large animals, due to anatomical particularities that provide greater stability to this joint. The most common causes of hip dislocation in large animals are related to hypocalcemia, mount trauma, sudden falls on hard surfaces or dystocia. Treatment can be performed by closed reduction, but the reported results are not satisfactory with complications. Several surgical techniques have already been described and successfully used in small animals in the treatment of hip dislocation. The present work aims to describe the technique and the result of the iliofemoral suture in the treatment of hip dislocation in a Girolando heifer. Case: A heifer was attended with a history of difficulty in getting up. According to the owner, the clinical manifestation was sudden, after remaining in a paddock with other animals of different age groups. The calf had reduced skin sensitivity on the croup, and it was impossible to remain in the quadrupedal position, often remaining in sternal recumbency with the left pelvic limb in extension. From the clinical examination, spinal cord injury was suspected and clinical treatment was instituted with dexamethasone, vitamins B1, B12 and dimethylsulfoxide. At the end of the clinical treatment, the animal did not show a favorable evolution, so radiographic examination of the coxofemoral region was performed, revealing dislocation of the left femoral head, indicating surgical correction. Xylazine was administered as pre-anesthetic medication, followed by anesthetic induction with midazolam associated with ketamine, followed by orotracheal intubation. Anesthetic maintenance was instituted with isoflurane and monitoring was performed with a multiparameter monitor. An epidural block was performed with bupivacaine and morphine. A craniolateral approach to the left hip joint was performed. After the dislocation was reduced, sutures were used to better stabilize the joint in question. Following the evolution of the surgical procedure, it was possible to confirm that the femoral head remained in place. After 15 days, the skin stitches were removed and the animal was discharged from the hospital and returned to its original property. The calf was asked to remain in the stall for at least 60 days, gradually releasing it into larger spaces and only after 120 days could it remain in the paddock with other animals. During three months, the tutor was consulted about the evolution of the condition, reporting that the animal was clinically well, being able to get up and walk without difficulty and with a mild degree of lameness, thus suggesting the success of the surgical procedure. Discussion: There are few studies of successful surgical treatments of hip dislocation in large animals, and that number is even smaller when considering cattle alone. It is believed that this is due to difficulties related to the surgical technique and to postoperative handling, given the animal's weight. The iliofemoral suture technique performed on the animal in the present study is commonly employed in small animals, and excellent results have been observed. However, reports on the use of this technique in large animals have not been found. The iliofemoral suture technique has advantages over other reported surgical techniques in cattle. When compared to the femoral head and neck resection, the iliofemoral suture has several advantages, as it allows preservation of the joint and achievement of superior biomechanical results. When compared to the technique of reinforcement of the joint capsule with synthetic material, also reported in cattle, the iliofemoral suture appears to be faster, simpler and more economic, and provides similar stability. We conclude that the iliofemoral suture proved to be a satisfactory alternative for the treatment of hip dislocations in young cattle.

Compressive lesions in the central nervous system of cattle: a retrospective study of 50 cases in the Amazon biome / Lesões compressivas no sistema nervoso central de bovinos: um estudo retrospectivo de 50 casos no bioma amazônico

The present study gathered epidemiological and clinical-pathological information about cattle with compressive lesions in the central nervous system (CNS). The retrospective study included observations made in 50 cattle from 1998 to 2021 by reviewing the clinical records of animals with compressive lesions in the CNS treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Veterinary Medicine Institute of the Federal University of Pará. The animals had clinical signs and were subjected to general and specific clinical examination of the nervous system. Blood samples were collected from 13 animals for complete blood counts, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected from four animals for physical evaluation. Twenty-nine cattle underwent necropsy. The most affected sites were the T3-L3 (46%, 23/50), C1-C5 (22%, 11/50), C6-T2 (14%, 7/50), sacrococcygeal vertebrae, (4%, 2/50), L4-S2 (2%, 1/50), brain (8%, 4/50) and cerebellum (4%, 2/50). The age of the affected cattle ranged from 20 days to 16 years, with a higher occurrence in animals younger than 12 months (56%, 28/50). More Females were affected (58%, 29/50) than males (42%, 21/50). The clinical signs varied according to the location of the lesion and were mainly represented by ataxia, paresis or paralysis of the limbs, inability to stand and walk, postural changes, hyperesthesia in the extremities, and loss of skin sensitivity at the location of the lesion. The necropsy findings revealed changes such as abscesses in the vertebral body; intervertebral space in the medullary canal, pituitary and cerebellum; granuloma in the arch of the vertebra; fractures of the body of the vertebrae; subarachnoid haematoma; congenital bone alteration causing spinal cord compression; and spondylitis. Detailed anamnesis and clinical examination of the CNS, associated with necropsy findings, were important to determine the cause of the disease, correlate with the clinical picture and locate the affected segments of the CNS in the cattle. It is important to include these diseases in the list of differential diagnoses in cattle with nervous symptoms.

O presente trabalho reúne informações epidemiológicas e clínicopatológicas de bovinos com lesões compressivas no sistema nervoso central (SNC). O estudo retrospectivo compreendeu as observações realizadas em 50 bovinos durante os anos de 1998 a 2021, por meio da revisão dos arquivos de fichas clínicas de animais com lesões compressivas no SNC atendidos pelo Hospital Veterinário do Instituto de Medicina Veterinária da Universidade Federal do Pará. Os animais atendidos com sinais clínicos foram submetidos a exame clínico geral e específico do sistema nervoso. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 13 animais para realização de hemograma e amostras de líquido cefalorraquidiano de quatro animais para avaliação física. Foram submetidos à necropsia 29 bovinos. Os locais mais acometidos foram as vértebras T3-L3 (46%, 23/50), C1-C5 (22%, 11/50), C6-T2 (14%, 7/50), sacrococcígea (4%, 2/50) e L4-S2 (2%, 1/50); cérebro (8%, 4/50) e cerebelo (4%, 2/50). A idade dos bovinos afetados variou de 20 dias a 16 anos, com maior ocorrência em animais com menos de 12 meses (56%, 28/50). As fêmeas foram mais acometidas (58%, 29/50) do que os machos (42%, 21/50). Os sinais clínicos variaram de acordo com a localização da lesão e foram representados principalmente por ataxia, paresia ou paralisia dos membros, incapacidade de se levantar e de ficar em estação, alterações posturais, hiperestesia nas extremidades, além de perda da sensibilidade cutânea relacionada com a localização da lesão. Os achados de necropsia revelaram alterações como abscessos no corpo vertebral, no espaço intervertebral, no canal medular, para-hipofisário e no cerebelo; granuloma no arco da vértebra, fraturas do corpo das vértebras; hematoma subaracnoide; alteração óssea congênita causando compressão medular e espondilite. Anamnese detalhada e exame clínico do SNC, associados aos achados de necropsia foram importantes para determinar a causa da doença, correlacionar com o quadro clínico e localizar os segmentos acometidos do SNC dos bovinos. Torna-se importante incluir estas enfermidades na lista de diagnósticos diferenciais em bovinos que apresentem sintomatologia nervosa.

Cystitis in a bitch with chronic kidney disease caused by multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli

Background: In dogs with bacterial cystitis that is resistant to multiple antibiotics, resulting from repeated infections andantimicrobial administration, especially if the dog has impaired renal function and the induction of systemic side effectsby intravenous or oral administration is a concern, intravesical instillation of antibiotics might represent an alternativetreatment option. In human and veterinary medicine, a number of studies showed intravesical instillation of antibiotics iseffective for the therapy multidrug-resistant bacterial urinary tract infection (UTI). This report firstly illustrates successfulintravesical meropenem treatment of a UTI caused by multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli with no systemic side effectsin dog with chronic kidney disease (CKD).Case: A 15-year-old spayed female Maltese was presented with recurrent bacterial cystitis. The risk factors for the recurrent UTI were spinal cord injury and CKD which had been managed for 1 year. Ultrasound-guided cystocentesis wasperformed to obtain a urine sample for urinalysis, bacteriologic culture, and antibiotic susceptibility testing. Bacterialcystitis caused by multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli was diagnosed on the basis of bacterial culture, and antimicrobialsusceptibility testing. Because the dog had CKD, reducing the clearance of meropenem, intravesical instillation of antibiotics was initiated. The intravesical instillation process consisted of the emptying of the urinary bladder, infusion of adiluted meropenem solution (8.5 mg/kg diluted in 20 mL of saline solution) into the bladder through a urethral catheter,and retention of the meropenem solution in the bladder for 1 h, and its removal. The procedure was repeated every 8 h. Onday 8 of the intravesical instillation therapy, bactereologic culture yielded a growth of E. coli (50,000 CFUs/mL), whichwas less than previously obtained. the concentration of the meropenem solution...

Cystitis in a bitch with chronic kidney disease caused by multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli

Background: In dogs with bacterial cystitis that is resistant to multiple antibiotics, resulting from repeated infections andantimicrobial administration, especially if the dog has impaired renal function and the induction of systemic side effectsby intravenous or oral administration is a concern, intravesical instillation of antibiotics might represent an alternativetreatment option. In human and veterinary medicine, a number of studies showed intravesical instillation of antibiotics iseffective for the therapy multidrug-resistant bacterial urinary tract infection (UTI). This report firstly illustrates successfulintravesical meropenem treatment of a UTI caused by multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli with no systemic side effectsin dog with chronic kidney disease (CKD).Case: A 15-year-old spayed female Maltese was presented with recurrent bacterial cystitis. The risk factors for the recurrent UTI were spinal cord injury and CKD which had been managed for 1 year. Ultrasound-guided cystocentesis wasperformed to obtain a urine sample for urinalysis, bacteriologic culture, and antibiotic susceptibility testing. Bacterialcystitis caused by multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli was diagnosed on the basis of bacterial culture, and antimicrobialsusceptibility testing. Because the dog had CKD, reducing the clearance of meropenem, intravesical instillation of antibiotics was initiated. The intravesical instillation process consisted of the emptying of the urinary bladder, infusion of adiluted meropenem solution (8.5 mg/kg diluted in 20 mL of saline solution) into the bladder through a urethral catheter,and retention of the meropenem solution in the bladder for 1 h, and its removal. The procedure was repeated every 8 h. Onday 8 of the intravesical instillation therapy, bactereologic culture yielded a growth of E. coli (50,000 CFUs/mL), whichwas less than previously obtained. the concentration of the meropenem solution...(AU)

The effect of mild hypothermia plus rutin on the treatment of spinal cord injury and inflammatory factors by repressing TGF-beta/smad pathway

Purpose: To probe the mechanism of mild hypothermia combined with rutin in the treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI). Methods: Thirty rats were randomized into the following groups: control, sham, model, mild hypothermia (MH), and mild hypothermia plus rutin (MH+Rutin). We used modified Allens method to injure the spinal cord (T10) in rats, and then treated it with MH or/ and rutin immediately. BBB scores were performed on all rats. We used HE staining for observing the injured spinal cord tissue; ELISA for assaying TNF-alfa, IL-1beta, IL-8, Myeloperoxidase (MPO), and Malondialdehyde (MDA) contents; Dihydroethidium (DHE) for measuring the reactive oxygen species (ROS) content; flow cytometry for detecting apoptosis; and both RT-qPCR and Western blot for determining the expression levels of TGF-beta/Smad pathway related proteins (TGF-beta, Smad2, and Smad3). Results: In comparison with model group, the BBB score of MH increased to a certain extent and MH+Rutin group increased more than MH group (p < 0.05). After treatment with MH and MH+Rutin, the inflammatory infiltration diminished. MH and MH+Rutin tellingly dwindled TNF-alfa, MDA and ROS contents (p < 0.01), and minified spinal cord cell apoptosis. MH and MH+Rutin could patently diminished TGF-beta1, Smad2, and Smad3 expression (p < 0.01). Conclusion: MH+Rutin can suppress the activation of TGF-beta/Smad pathway, hence repressing the cellular inflammatory response after SCI.(AU)

Ferulic acid improves motor function induced by spinal cord injury in rats via inhibiting neuroinflammation and apoptosis

ABSTRACT Purpose To investigate the effect of ferulic acid (FA) on spinal cord injury (SCI)-induced motor dysfunction and to explore the possible pharmacological mechanisms. Methods Adult male Wistar rats were used in our study. SCI was achieved by clipping the spinal cord T9 of the rat by a vascular clip for 2 minutes. The motor function of the rat was evaluated by Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan scoring method (BBB) and inclined plane test. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, NISSL staining, and transmission electron microscopic examination were used to evaluate alterations at the histological level. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blots, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were employed in biochemical analysis. Results The BBB score and inclined plane test score significantly decreased after SCI surgery, whereas chronic FA treatment (dose of 90 mg/kg, i.g.) for 28 days improved SCI-induced motor dysfunction. HE staining showed that SCI surgery induced internal spinal cord edema, but the structural changes of the spinal cord could be reversed by FA treatment. NISSL staining and transmission electron microscopic examination confirmed the improvement of the effect of FA on the injury site. In the biochemical analysis, it could be found that FA inhibitedSCI-induced mRNA and protein overexpression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α), as well as iNOS and COX-2 via the modulation of NF-κB level in the spinal cord of SCI rat. Moreover, the SCI-induced decrease of Bcl-2/Bax ratio was also reversed by FA treatment. However, the effect of FA on the expression of Beclin-1 was not statistically significant. Conclusions FA showed a therapeutic effect on SCI, which may be associated with the regulation of neuroinflammation and apoptosis.

Vertebrectomia total e estabilização com pinos e polimetilmetacrilato como tratamento para luxação entre vértebras torácicas em cão ­ relato de caso / Total vertebrectomy and stabilization with pins and polymethylmethacrylate as treatment for thoracic vertebral luxation in a dog - case report

As lesões decorrentes de atropelamento são as principais causas de fraturas e luxações vertebrais, ocasionando graus variáveis de injúrias vertebrais e medulares. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo relatar a ocorrência de lesão traumática em coluna vertebral de cão sem raça definida, com quatro anos de idade, resultando em luxação T11-12, com exposição de T11 e secção medular, estando o paciente paraplégico, com sinais de lesão em neurônio motor superior e ausência de nocicepção profunda em membros pélvicos. O tratamento de escolha foi a vertebrectomia de T11, associada ao alinhamento de T10-12 com introdução de pinos e fixação com polimetilmetacrilato (PMMA) associado à ceftriaxona. Em decorrência de lesão na pleura parietal no trans-cirúrgico, optou-se pela toracostomia para introdução de tubo torácico, o qual permaneceu no paciente por quatro dias. No pós-operatório, o paciente apresentou recuperação satisfatória, sendo recomendado aos tutores a confecção de cadeira de rodas a fim de facilitar sua locomoção. A técnica mostrou-se satisfatória para minimizar as infecções passíveis de ocorrência em fraturas expostas, bem como melhorar a qualidade de vida do paciente, evitando-se dores crônicas.

Injuries resulting from being run over are the leading causes of vertebral fractures and dislocations, causing varying vertebral and spinal injuries. The present study aims to report the occurrence of traumatic injury to the spine of a mixed breed dog, aged four years, resulting in a T11-12 dislocation, with T11 exposure and spinal section, with the patient showing paraplegia, signs of an upper motor neuron lesion and absence of deep nociception in pelvic limbs. The treatment of choice was T11 vertebrectomy, associated with the alignment of T10-12 with the introduction of pins and fixation with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) associated with ceftriaxone. Due to a lesion in the parietal pleura during the surgery, thoracostomy was chosen to introduce a chest tube, which remained in the patient for four days. In the postoperative period, the patient presented a satisfactory recovery, and it was recommended that tutors make a wheelchair to facilitate their mobility. The technique proved to be satisfactory for minimizing infections that could occur in open fractures and improving the patient's quality of life, avoiding chronic pain.

Estabilização cirúrgica da coluna vertebral cervical em ovino / Cervical spinal cord surgical stabilization in a sheep

Background: Trauma is the main cause of spinal fractures and dislocations in humans and large animals. Clinical signspresent with acute onset and vary according to the location and severity of the spinal cord injury. The treatment of fractures in large animals depends on economic value, cost of procedures, prognosis, location and type of fracture. However,although spinal fractures in large animals are not uncommon, the literature about their clinical aspects and treatment isscanty. Therefore, the purpose of this report is to describe a surgical stabilization of atlantoaxial subluxation, fracture ofthe third cervical vertebra and C2-C3 subluxation.Case: An approximately 2-year-old Île-de-France sheep, weighing 101 kg, with a history of cervical trauma and nonambulatory tetraparesis was treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Institution (UNIPAMPA). During physical examination, the animal presented good general physical condition and heart rate, respiratory rate and temperature was accordingto physiological parameters for the species. The animal remained in lateral decubitus, with minimal head and limb movements, and exhibited deep pain sensitivity. Clinical treatment with dexamethasone, limb physiotherapy and change inlateral decubitus position were employed, but failed to improve the animal’s condition. After five days of unresponsive toclinical treatment, the patient was referred to the neurology department, where it underwent neurological examination andradiographic examination of the cervical region was performed under general anesthesia. The radiographic examinationrevealed atlantoaxial subluxation, by displacement of the odontoid process into the vertebral canal, fracture of the thirdcervical vertebra and C2-C3 vertebral subluxation. The surgical planning aimed cervical vertebral instability repair usingatlantoaxial arthrodesis associated the stabilization of C1-C2 and C2-C3 vertebrae with Schanz pins and bone cement...

Estabilização cirúrgica da coluna vertebral cervical em ovino / Cervical spinal cord surgical stabilization in a sheep

Background: Trauma is the main cause of spinal fractures and dislocations in humans and large animals. Clinical signspresent with acute onset and vary according to the location and severity of the spinal cord injury. The treatment of fractures in large animals depends on economic value, cost of procedures, prognosis, location and type of fracture. However,although spinal fractures in large animals are not uncommon, the literature about their clinical aspects and treatment isscanty. Therefore, the purpose of this report is to describe a surgical stabilization of atlantoaxial subluxation, fracture ofthe third cervical vertebra and C2-C3 subluxation.Case: An approximately 2-year-old Île-de-France sheep, weighing 101 kg, with a history of cervical trauma and nonambulatory tetraparesis was treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Institution (UNIPAMPA). During physical examination, the animal presented good general physical condition and heart rate, respiratory rate and temperature was accordingto physiological parameters for the species. The animal remained in lateral decubitus, with minimal head and limb movements, and exhibited deep pain sensitivity. Clinical treatment with dexamethasone, limb physiotherapy and change inlateral decubitus position were employed, but failed to improve the animals condition. After five days of unresponsive toclinical treatment, the patient was referred to the neurology department, where it underwent neurological examination andradiographic examination of the cervical region was performed under general anesthesia. The radiographic examinationrevealed atlantoaxial subluxation, by displacement of the odontoid process into the vertebral canal, fracture of the thirdcervical vertebra and C2-C3 vertebral subluxation. The surgical planning aimed cervical vertebral instability repair usingatlantoaxial arthrodesis associated the stabilization of C1-C2 and C2-C3 vertebrae with Schanz pins and bone cement...(AU)