Quantitative studies on B-mode ultrasound and point shear wave elastography of kidneys in nonazotemic dogs.

Renal diseases in dogs can be diagnosed effectively using B-mode ultrasound. Point shear wave elastography (pSWE) has demonstrated usefulness in diagnosing renal diseases in human medicine. However, its application in veterinary medicine is in its nascent stage. It was hypothesized that establishing pSWE reference values in nonazotemic dogs would prove valuable in differentiating renal diseases. In light of this, a single-center, quantitative study with an objective to normalize B-mode ultrasound parameters and pSWE values of the kidney in nonazotemic dogs was conducted. A total of 198 animals presented with clinical signs of anorexia, vomiting, weight loss, and dehydration were enrolled in the study spanning 2 years. Among them, 52 nonazotemic dogs were included as subjects for the study. B-mode ultrasound quantitative parameters, including length (L), breadth (B), height (H), cortical thickness (RCT), and medulla thickness (RMT) of the kidneys, as well as the diameter of the aorta (Ao), were normalized. Additionally, calculated parameters such as L:Ao, B:Ao, H:Ao, RCT:Ao, and corticomedullary ratios were worked out. Point shear wave elastography values were obtained from the cranial and caudal poles of renal cortices using ElastPQ stiffness software. The pSWE values of kidneys in nonazotemic dogs were normalized. The mean ± standard error values were 1.04 ± 0.08 m/s (95% confidence interval: 0.88-1.19 m/s) and 4.18 ± 0.62 kPa (95% confidence interval: 2.93-5.42 kPa). In conclusion, B-mode ultrasound quantitative parameters, ratios, and pSWE values were normalized in nonazotemic dogs, which may prove valuable in differentiating renal pathologies in canine patients.

Correlation of various dental parameters of mandibular first molar with age, body weight and breed in healthy dogs.

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of different radiographic parameters of mandibular first molar with respect to age, body weight and breed in healthy dogs. Overall, 50 dogs with the age from 5 to 156 months and body weight from 6.00 to 45.00 kg of various breeds were made the subject of study. Animals were categorized into different groups based on age, body weight and breed. A new dental parameters measurement technique was standardised which was in line with modified Lind's measurement technique of human dentistry. A significant decrease in least square count means of dental parameters was observed in age group 1 (0 - 12 months) in comparison with group 2 (13 - 60 months) and group 3 (> 60 months). A significant decrease in least square count means of dental parameters was observed in group A (0.00 - 10.00 kg) in comparison with group B (11.00 - 25.00 kg) and group C (> 25.00 kg). The root canal width showed a significant decrease with an increase in age; therefore, it was difficult to approach pulp cavity in older dogs. Small breeds showed decline in root length/crown height (R/C) ratio and mandible height/first mandibular molar height (MH/M1H) ratio in comparison with medium and large breeds because of which there were more chances of tooth loosening in smaller breeds. Regression equations formulated with respect to body weight and age can act as a ready reference to calculate values of different dental parameters at places where dental radiography is not available.

Type 2 abomasal ulceration in cattle and buffalo: energy and lipid metabolic status, clinico-biochemical parameters, treatment, and prognostic indicators.

Twenty nine animals (22 cattle and 7 buffaloes) having type 2 abomasal ulcer (AU2) were studied in this prospective investigation, along with a control group (n = 20). Signalment, history, clinical signs, and laboratory alterations were determined. Blood, rumen fluid, abomasal fluid, and fecal samples were collected at the time of presentation. Depressed behavior, anorexia, dehydration, melena, sparse feces, and mushy rumen with substantially reduced or nonexistent motility, tachycardia, and tachypnea were common clinical findings. Colic was observed in 58% of animals. While the neutrophil count was significantly greater, the mean of lymphocytes, hemoglobin, erythrocyte count, and hematocrit were all lower (p < 0.05) than the corresponding control values. In comparison to the control values, the levels of BHBA, NEFA, lactate, bilirubin, BUN, creatinine, LDH, CK, GGT, ALP, and AST were significantly higher but levels of proteins, cholesterol, Na, K, Cl, and calcium were lower (p < 0.05). In comparison to the control values, the other hemato-biochemical parameters did not differ substantially (p < 0.05). The rumen and abomasal pH were within the reference range while rumen chloride concentration was increased in majority of animals. Higher percentage (p < 0.05) of non-survivors showed left shift and toxic alterations in neutrophils than the survivors. As compared to the survivors, the non-survivors had higher (p < 0.05) BHBA, triglycerides, total bilirubin, AST, ALP, LDH, and lactate, and lower (p < 0.05) fibrinogen and calcium. The response to medical treatment was fair, long time survival rate was good, and there was no recurrence. The follow-up period was 28 months. After treatment, both the current and the subsequent lactation's milk production were unaffected.

Differential diagnosis and surgical management of cecal dilatation vis-a-vis cecal impaction in bovine.

AIM: The present study was undertaken to study the clinical and hemato-biochemical alterations, ultrasonography, and surgical treatment of bovine suffering from cecal dilatation and cecal impaction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was conducted on 11 bovines (9 buffaloes and 2 cattle) suffering from cecal dilatation (n=6) and cecal impaction (n=5). The diagnosis of surgical affections of cecum was made on the basis of clinical examination, hematobiochemistry, ultrasonography, and exploratory laparotomy. RESULTS: A marked decrease in serum total protein, albumin, chloride, potassium, and calcium levels while an increase in lactate concentrations was recorded. Peritoneal fluid examination revealed an increase in total protein concentration. Per rectal examination along with ultrasonography was used as a confirmatory diagnostic tool for cecal dilatation and cecal impaction. Ultrasonographic features of cecal dilatation and cecal impaction were recorded. Left flank laparorumenotomy was performed in six animals with dilated cecum along with colonic fecalith. Post-rumenotomy, these animals were treated with massage of cecum along with kneading of colonic fecalith. Right flank typhlotomy was done in the remaining five animals having impacted cecum for decompression of the dilated cecum. 9 of 11 animals survived which underwent surgery and remained healthy up to 3-month follow-up. CONCLUSION: Ultrasonography was reliable in the diagnosis of cecal dilatation and cecal impaction in bovine. Left flank exploration after laparorumenotomy is an ideal surgical technique for the management of cecal dilatation, while right flank typhlotomy is ideal for the management of cecal impaction in bovine.

Surgical Repair of Radial-Ulnar Fracture by Static Intramedullary Interlocking Nailing in a Crossbred Heifer.

OBJECTIVE: Study included surgical management of radius and ulna fracture in a 2-year-old, 220 kg crossbred heifer presented with a 2-day-old history of injury resulting in severe, non-weight bearing lameness of the left forelimb. METHODS: The condition was diagnosed clinically and confirmed radiographically as a middle third oblique comminuted fracture of the left radius and ulna. Static intramedullary interlocking nailing was performed for fracture fixation. An interlocking nail of 12-mm diameter and 26-cm length was introduced in a retrograde manner from the distal aspect of the radius. RESULTS: The animal was able to bear weight on the affected limb within 7 days post surgery. Good callus formation and complete weight bearing were observed by 35th day. Bending of the screws and osteophytic reaction were the major postoperative complications observed radiographically. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: From this case study, it was established that static intramedullary interlocking nailing can be used as an alternative technique for fracture repair of the radius and ulna in cattle where stable fracture fixation by bone plating is questionable.

Comparison of radiography and ultrasonography in the detection of lung and liver cysts in cattle and buffaloes.

AIM: Echinococcosis is the major cause of lung and liver cysts in ruminants. This study compared usefulness of radiography and ultrasonography (USG) in the detection of lung and/or liver cysts in sick bovine animals. The study also worked out cooccurrence of lung and liver cysts, and whether these cysts were primary cause of sickness or not. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted on 45 sick bovine (37 buffaloes and 8 cattle) suffering from lung and liver cysts. A complete history of illness and clinical examination was carried out. Lateral radiographs of chest and reticular region were taken. In radiographically positive or suspected cases of cysts, USG of the lung and liver region was done. Depending on the location of cyst and clinical manifestations of the animal, the cysts were categorized as primary or secondary causes of sickness. RESULTS: Using either imaging technique, it was observed that 46.7% of the animals had both lung and liver cysts, whereas 33.3% had only lung and 20% had only liver cyst. Cysts were identified as primary cause of sickness in 31.1% animals only. For diagnosing lung cysts, radiography (71.1%) and USG (62.2%) had similar diagnostic utility. However, for detecting liver cysts, USG was the only imaging tool. CONCLUSION: The lung and liver cysts, depending on their number and size may be a primary cause of sickness in bovine. Radiography and USG are recommended, in combination, as screening tools to rule out echinococcosis.

Feasibility of C-arm guided closed intramedullary pinning for the stabilization of canine long bone fractures.

AIM: To evaluate the feasibility of C-arm guided closed intramedullary pinning (simple Steinmann and end threaded) techniques for the stabilization of various canine long bone fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was conducted on 19 dogs with long bone fractures which were stabilized using simple Steinmann (Group I; n=6) and end threaded (Group II; n=13) pinning under C-arm guidance. Signalment, history of trauma, clinical examination, and hematobiochemical findings were recorded at the time of presentation. Radiography of the affected limb was carried out in two views to determine type and site of the fracture. Treatment of all the fractures was attempted using simple Steinman and end threaded pinning under the C-arm guidance. The success and failure of the closed technique were correlated with age, site, and type of fractures. RESULTS: The mean body weight and age of the dogs were 18.53±2.18 kg and 21.58±5.85 months, respectively. Early presented cases at a mean day of 2.84±0.54 were included. Out of 19 cases, it was possible to place implant successfully in 10 cases (success rate 52.63%) only. The remaining 9 cases had serious intraoperative complications like a misdirection of the pin after engaging the proximal fragment (n=3), missing the proximal fragment completely, and formation of the false tract (n=6). The majority of these complications were associated with younger age and proximal or distal third oblique fractures. High success rate of C-arm guided closed pinning was observed in midshaft fractures (75%) and transverse fractures (77.78%) in dogs of more than 1 year of age (77.78%). Simple Steinmann pinning was better feasible in a closed manner with a high success rate (66.70%) but also had implant related complications. Although, C-arm guided end threaded pinning was less (46.15%) successful, slightly tedious and time-consuming but had better implant stability than that of simple intramedullary pinning. CONCLUSIONS: From the present study, it was concluded that C-arm guided closed pinning is recommended in transverse and midshaft fractures of the long bones in dogs older than 1 year of age. Furthermore, there is need to improve traction devices for enhancing the success of C-arm guided intramedullary pinning in dogs.

Surgical retrieval of a metallic foreign body from the spleen of a dog.

This is the first report of a metallic foreign body in the spleen of a dog. The animal had abdominal discomfort with a tucked-up abdomen and occasional vomition. Radiography and ultrasonography were used to identify a splenic foreign body which was surgically removed through a ventral midline celiotomy. Migration of the foreign body through the stomach wall was suspected as the most likely cause.

Comparison of radiography and ultrasonography for diagnosis of diaphragmatic hernia in bovines.

The present study was conducted on 101 animals suffering from thoracoabdominal disorders; out of which twenty seven animals (twenty six buffaloes and one cow) were diagnosed with diaphragmatic hernia based on clinical signs, radiography, ultrasonography, and left flank laparorumenotomy. Radiography alone confirmed diaphragmatic hernia in 18 cases (66.67%) with a sac-like structure cranial to the diaphragm. In 15 animals the sac contained metallic densities while in three cases a sac-like structure with no metallic densities was present. Ultrasonography was helpful in confirming diaphragmatic hernia in 23 cases (85.18%) and ultrasonographically reticular motility was evident at the level of 4th/5th intercostal space in all the animals. B+M mode ultrasonography was used for the first time for diagnosis of diaphragmatic hernia in bovines and the results suggested that ultrasonography was a reliable diagnostic modality for diaphragmatic hernia in bovines.

Ultrasonographic evaluation of the omasum in cows and buffaloes.

The study was conducted to establish the ultrasonographic features of the healthy and impacted omasum in cows and buffaloes. Scanning was done using a 3.5 MHz microconvex transducer. In healthy buffaloes, the omasum could be scanned at the eighth to ninth intercostal space as a round or oval structure having thick echogenic wall with echogenic leaves. Gradual slow movements of omasal leaves could also be seen in real-time B-mode. The omasum appeared to be very clear, large, and close to the transducer at the start of the omasal contraction, and as the contraction progressed the omasum retracted away from the transducer and became very small. In healthy cows the omasum was seen as a crescent-shaped structure with an echogenic wall. The contents of the omasum or omasal leaves could not be visualized. Omasal contractility was not as prominent as in buffaloes. In buffaloes, the impacted omasum appeared amotile, the omasal leaves were not visible, and the omasum as a whole gave a prominent distal acoustic shadow. In cows, the impaction could be diagnosed based on amotile omasum covering a large area on the right side. Ultrasonography was found to be helpful in subjective assessment of omasal impaction but could not aid in diagnosing the severity of impaction.