Glaucoma in dogs and cats - management with cyclocryotherapy

Background: The treatment of glaucoma often requires numerous therapeutic modalities to achieve the desired reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP). Cyclodestructive procedures or ciliary body destruction have been performed using techniques with considerable differences in efficacy and complication rates. Among these methods, cyclocryotherapy is non-invasive and simple for the management of uncontrolled glaucoma in dogs and cats. The objective of this case report is to describe the technique of carbon dioxide cyclocryotherapy to reduce intraocular pressure in dogs and cats with glaucoma. Cases: Nine canine patients and one cat with glaucoma were treated with cyclocryotherapy performed under general anaesthesia. Clinical signs patients included blepharospasm, ocular pain, episcleral congestion and ocular hypertension. The patients showed higher levels of IOP, higher than 30 mmHg. Surgical treatment with general anaesthesia was applied. The pre-anaesthesia protocol included acepromazine 0.05 mg/kg with methadone 0.2 mg/kg, followed by intravenous propofol and maintenance with isoflurane and oxygen. An ophthalmological cryocautery unit was used with carbon dioxide as the cryogenic agent and a retinal cryoprobe of 3.2 mm diameter tip for the procedure. The method used was a double cycle of freezing and thawing for 60 s in each site. The cryoprobe was centred approximately 5 mm posterior to the corneoscleral limbus over the ciliary body. The temperature of each cyclocryotherapy spot was between -60°C and -80°C and each site was maintained in place for 60 s; 4 to 6 spots of the double freeze-thaw cycle were made. This technique did not have any serious complications during or after the application of cryotherapy, but chemosis and hyperaemia of the bulbar conjunctiva developed. Subconjunctival anti-inflammatory steroids were injected to minimise swelling and patient discomfort. Satisfactory results were observed; in all cases, the intraocular pressure decreased, with the usual result being a cosmetic and painless eye. Discussion: Even with recent surgical and medical advances, pain and blindness are still common occurrences in glaucoma in human and veterinary practice. The cyclodestructive procedures included cyclodialysis, cyclodiathermy, cyclocryotherapy, and cyclophotocoagulation. The cryosurgery in veterinary ophthalmology has many indications for the treatment of ocular diseases and is effective at decreasing intraocular pressure in patients with persistent uncontrolled glaucoma. Cyclocryotherapy has been shown to reduce intraocular pressure in dogs, cats, rabbits and humans with normotensive and glaucomatous eyes. The application of a cryoprobe over the ciliary processes results in ablating ciliary tissue so that aqueous humour inflow is reduced to acceptable levels. In the clinical cases evaluated, there was a reduction in intraocular pressure reaching acceptable levels, with the usual result being cosmetic and painless eye. Medical therapy remains the predominant method for treating glaucoma in veterinary patients; therefore, cyclocryotherapy is an effective, simple way to lower IOP and is a reasonable treatment option for glaucoma management. Cyclocryotherapy has shown good results, with a low learning curve and it can also be repeated if necessary.

Hemangiosarcoma in the vastus lateralis musculature of a bitch - sonographic findings

Background: A 10-year-old spayed bitch with hip dysplasia was referred for periarticular ultrasound evaluation. A poorly marginated structure of mixed echogenicity, predominantly hypoechoic, with heterogeneous echotexture, was identified in the vastus lateralis muscle of the right pelvic limb with increased stiffness, assessed using acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography, compared to that of the adjacent muscle tissues, and intense vascularization by pulsed Doppler and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). Guided biopsy was performed to confirm the diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma. The objective of this study was to describe B-mode ultrasound, CEUS, and ARFI findings of hemangiosarcoma in the vastus lateralis musculature of a bitch. Case: A 10-year-old spayed bitch Golden Retriever weighing 36 kg was evaluated for pelvic limb lameness. The patient presented with bilateral pain during hip extension. The primary diagnostic suspicion was degenerative joint disease and secondary hip dysplasia. The patient was referred for imaging evaluation of the hip joints (radiography and ultrasound) under anesthesia. Right lateral and ventrodorsal projections with the pelvic limbs extended were obtained to confirm the diagnosis. In the right pelvic limb, an amorphous hypoechoic structure with irregular contours and heterogeneous echotexture was observed in the vastus lateralis muscle. In ARFI elastography, it was possible to identify differences in tissue stiffness between healthy and compromised portions. Pulsed-wave Doppler evaluation demonstrated an arterial waveform pattern with a peak systolic velocity of 38.8 cm/s, end-diastolic velocity of 6.9 cm/s, pulsatility index of 1.76, and resistive index of 0.82. CEUS study identified a mean peak of 27.26 %, mean time to peak of 39.95 s, and mean transmission time of 49.96 s. The popliteal lymph node was hyperechoic and heterogeneous in B-mode. In ARFI elastography, the average stiffness was 2.52 m/s, and the CEUS obtained an average peak of 19.98%, average time to peak of 17.52 s, and mean transit time of 22.83 s. Doppler assessment revealed no clear vascularization in the lymph node. Thoracic radiography in 3 projections and abdominal ultrasonography were performed. Radiographic evidence of pulmonary nodules was not observed. On abdominal ultrasound evaluation, it was possible to identify changes in the spleen, which presented with splenomegaly, mixed echogenicity, and heterogeneous echotexture. The animal underwent ultrasound-guided muscle biopsy, which confirmed the presence of hemangiosarcoma in the muscle. The bitch was referred for splenectomy and lymphadenectomy of the right popliteal, which confirmed neoplastic involvement of the same neoplasm. Discussion: On B-mode ultrasound, the observed changes were similar to those in a report of hemangiosarcoma in the muscles of the chest wall in dogs, which contributed to the diagnosis. Although it was only one patient, ARFI elastography results suggest that muscle hemangiosarcoma tends to follow the same elastographic characteristics as malignant lesions in other tissues. Additionally, the popliteal lymph node had a stiffness suggestive of malignancy (mean 2.52 m/s) because it presented a similar result and greater elasticity of metastatic axillary lymph nodes in bitches (>2.5 m/s) and women (> 1.44 m/s) with breast tumor. With CEUS, it was possible to identify vascularization in the sentinel lymph node that was not visible by pulsed Doppler, and in muscle mass. The findings of this report provided relevant results on muscle hemangiosarcoma in a bitch and demonstrated that the information obtained with the association of imaging methods supported the malignancy criteria described in other studies.

Leveling osteotomy of the tibial plateau at an inverted angle in a dog / Osteotomia de nivelamento do platô tibial em ângulo invertido em um cachorro

One dog, Golden Retriever, 5 months old, was seen complaining of lameness and pain in the left pelvic limb. Avulsion of the tibial crest was diagnosed by radiographic means, which was corrected with a tension band. The absence of postoperative radiographic monitoring and the non-removal of the apparatus led to the early closure of the cranial tibial physis with continuous flow growth, resulting in pain, functional loss of the limb after one year and at a 13.2º tibial plateau angle negative. The biomechanical alteration of the limb was corrected using the inverted TPLO technique, converting the angle of the tibial plateau to 5.3 positive, without a rockback evidenced in 30, 60, 90 days up to four months after the operation. The objective of this case report is to describe the surgical correction with the inverted TPLO technique in a case of angle of the negative tibial plateau secondary to not removing the tension band applied in avulsion of the growing tibial crest. After 120 days, the dog was presented fully recovery and weight-bearing without any complication.

Um cão, Golden Retriever, de 5 meses de idade, foi atendido com queixa de claudicação e dor em membro pélvico esquerdo. Diagnosticou-se por meio radiográfico a avulsão da crista da tíbia, a qual foi corrigida com banda de tensão. A ausência de acompanhamento radiográfico pós-operatório e a não retirada do aparato levou ao fechamento precoce da fise tibial cranial com crescimento contínuo da caudal, resultando em dor, perda funcional do membro após um ano e em um ângulo de platô tibial de 13,2º negativos. A alteração biomecânica do membro foi corrigida por meio da técnica de TPLO invertida, convertendo o ângulo do platô tibial em 5,3º positivos, sem rockback evidenciado em 30, 60, 90 dias até quatro meses de pós-operatório. O objetivo desse relato de caso é descrever a correção cirúrgica com a técnica de TPLO invertida em um caso de ângulo do platô tibial negativo secundário a não retirada de banda de tensão aplicada em avulsão da crista da tíbia em crescimento. Após 120 dias, o paciente apresentou recuperação total com adequado suporte do peso no membro, sem qualquer complicação.

Coloboma eyelid in cats - treatment with carbon dioxide cryosurgery

Background: Eyelid colobomas are congenital and developmental disorders. Generally, they affect the temporal portion of the upper eyelids of cats, bilaterally. This ocular defect is accompanied by trichiasis associated with pain and ulcerative keratitis. Any breed can be affected and it has been reported in Domestic Shorthair, Persian, Burmese, Mongrel cats and captive felids. The objective of this case report is to describe the technique of dioxide carbon cryosurgery for the treatment of eyelid coloboma in felines. Cases: Seven mongrel cats (14 eyes) with bilateral eyelid coloboma were included in this study, 5 females and 2 males, with a median age of 5 months (range 6-8 months). The patients presented with blepharospasm, bilateral mucopurulent ocular discharge and eyelid coloboma extension of 30-50% in the upper eyelid, resulting in severe trichiasis of both eyes. In 5 cats, 1 or both eyes were diagnosed with keratitis and superficial corneal ulcers. Surgical treatment with general anaesthesia was applied. The pre anaesthesia protocol included acepromazine 0.05 mg/kg with methadone 0.2 mg/kg, followed by intravenous propofol and maintenance with isoflurane and oxygen. An ophthalmological cryocautery unit was utilised with carbon dioxide as the cryogenic agent and a retinal cryoprobe of 3.2 mm diameter tip, reaching -50ºC for the procedure. The method used was a double cycle of freezing and thawing for 60 s in the margins of eyelid agenesis. Epilation of hairs was made after freezing with eyelash tweezers. Immediately after the surgical procedure, an Elizabethan collar was placed to safeguard the area and anti-inflammatory therapy with meloxicam 0.1 mg/kg once daily for 3 days was prescribed. Antibiotic ointment every 6 h (chloramphenicol and associations) was also prescribed for topical application. Two weeks post-operatively, hyperaemia, oedema and skin wounds at the margins were observed. After 30 days these clinical signs were minimal. No signs of pain were observed post-operatively. The follow-up was 90 days and the trichiasis was resolved in all cats. Discussion: Usually, young cats are affected with eyelid colobomas. The age of the patients in this study was between 6-8 months. Eyelid colobomas are repaired with a variety of blepharoplastic procedures and the choice depends on the size and position of the defect. Generally, larger defects require more extensive reconstructive procedures. All techniques can have post-operative complications. Suture dehiscence, skin flap necrosis and facial deformation can occur with traditional surgical techniques. Furthermore, posterior hair growth in the margins can lead to new trichiasis. Cryosurgery was chosen and performed as the temperature of -20°C is sufficient to destroy hair follicles, without surgical incisions, avoiding scar formation. Hence, sutures are not necessary in cryosurgery procedures. Carbon dioxide is a good cryogenic agent for the purpose of this procedure. In the cases described, no recurrence of hair growth was observed in the follow-up period of 90 days. Nevertheless, a good aesthetic appearance was maintained. Therefore, the use of carbon dioxide cryosurgery is an effective and safe alternative for treatment of eyelid coloboma in cats. To our knowledge, no paper has described the use of carbon dioxide cryosurgery for the correction of palpebral agenesis in felines and other species as a single treatment. This technique is easy to perform, has good aesthetic and functional results and can be considered a treatment option for this congenital condition.

Cryosurgery using dimethyl ether in the treatment of pigmentary keratitis in pug dogs / Criocirurgia usando o dimethyl ether no tratamento da ceratite pigmentar em cães da raça Pug

Corneal pigmentation and vascularization eventually result in blindness in dogs. Pigmentary keratitis describes a relatively common presentation comprising the deposition of melanin in the cornea and conjunctival surface associated with chronic inflammation. Cryosurgery is indicated as a treatment for pigmentary keratitis in dogs. Due to melanocytes sensitivity to cold, cryosurgery is a viable treatment for severe refractory corneal pigmentation. The aim of this work was to evaluate the use of dimethyl ether in the treatment of pigmentary keratitis in 14 eyes of seven Pug dogs. Follow-up occurred after 30 days in four animals and six months in three animals. In all treated animals, there was a reduction in corneal pigmentation. Cryosurgery causes intracellular and extracellular ice crystal formation and other mechanisms that result in rupture and death of the melanocytes. The technique used was easy to perform, has a low cryogen cost and has few undesirable or serious side effects. However, after 30 days repigmentation occured in treated patients. Cryosurgery shows good results in the first four weeks, but partial recurrence occurred in all cases.

A pigmentação e a vascularização da córnea eventualmente resultam em cegueira em cães. A ceratite pigmentar é descrita com uma apresentação relativamente comum que compreende a deposição de melanina na córnea e na superfície conjuntival associada à inflamação crônica. A criocirurgia é indicada como tratamento para ceratite pigmentar em cães. Devido à sensibilidade dos melanócitos ao frio, a criocirurgia é um tratamento viável para pigmentação corneana refratária grave. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o uso do éter dimetílico no tratamento da ceratite pigmentar em 14 olhos de sete cães da raça Pug. O acompanhamento foi de 30 dias em quatro animais e seis meses em três animais. Em todos os animais tratados, houve redução da pigmentação da córnea. A criocirurgia causa a formação de cristais de gelo intracelular e extracelular e outros mecanismos que resultam na ruptura e morte dos melanócitos. A técnica utilizada foi de fácil execução, baixo custo de criogenia e poucos efeitos colaterais indesejáveis ou graves. No entanto, após 30 dias, ocorreu repigmentação nos pacientes tratados. A criocirurgia apresenta bons resultados nas primeiras quatro semanas, mas ocorreu recidiva parcial em todos os casos.

Linfoma intraocular em cães - achados da ultrassonografia contrastada e elastografia ARFI / Intraocular lymphoma in dogs - findings of contrast enhanced ultrasound and ARFI elastography

Background: Ocular lymphoma can affect the iris, conjunctiva, choroid, and retina and is mostly associated with multicentric disease. Elastography is an ultrasound technique that provides noninvasive, pain-free assessment of tissue stiffness. It has the ability to assess subtle changes throughout the organ as well as focal lesions. Microbubble contrast ultrasound enables the detection of incipient vascular flows, which are difficult to detect using traditional ultrasound methods. This study aimed to describe acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography and microbubble contrast ultrasound findings in the eyes of two dogs diagnosed with intraocular T-cell lymphoma. Cases: Case 1. Physical examination revealed an exophytic mass in the left eye. Schirmer test revealed a secretion of 22 mm/min. Negative threat reflex, glare, direct pupillary light reflex, and consensual response were also noted. Biomicroscopy revealed hyperplasia of the third eyelid, overlapping with the affected eye. When the membrane was removed, moderate conjunctival hyperemia, mucoid secretion, and buphthalmia were observed. In addition, significant corneal edema was present, making it impossible to visualize the anterior chamber and perform fundus examination. The intraocular pressure, as measured with a rebound tonometer, was 39 mmHg. B-mode ultrasonography identified amorphous, hyperechoic, and heterogeneous structures throughout the anterior chamber, iris, and ciliary body. The elastogram showed that the mass had greenish tones and intermediate stiffness, and the mean SWV of the ciliary body and iris was 2 m/s. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) revealed vascularization of the neoformation region, with wash-in, peak, and wash-out values of 9.89 s, 24.56 s, and 107.87 s, respectively. Case 2. On physical examination, a change in the shape of the right pupil was observed. Schirmer test revealed a secretion of 20 mm/min, with negative threat, glare, and pupillary reflexes to direct and consensual light. Biomicroscopy revealed neoformation from 7 am to 11 am in the sclera, retina, and choroid complex, concomitant with dyscoria and conjunctival hyperemia. The intraocular pressure, as measured by rebound tonometry, was 33 mmHg. Fundoscopy revealed a mass in the temporal region and focal retinal detachment. No changes were observed in the contralateral eye. B-mode ultrasound revealed an increase in volume in the temporal region of the iris, ciliary body, and choroid with diffuse heterogeneity and partial retinal detachment. Elastographic examination revealed shades of green and yellow compatible with increased tissue stiffness. On quantitative examination, the mean SWVs of the ciliary body and iris were 3.14 m/s. On CEUS, the neoformation region presented wash-in, peak, and wash-out values of 8.67 s, 22.33 s, and 80.20 s. Discussion: B-mode ultrasonography established the tumor extent and evaluated echogenicity, verifying the involved ocular structures. The examination played an important role in the diagnosis as well as clinical management. ARFI elastography can detect small tissue changes, helping to define nodules and masses more reliably, in addition to allowing the verification of tissue stiffness. In both dogs, it was possible to verify that the masses presented greater rigidity than the adjacent tissues both qualitatively and quantitatively. In previous studies, it was found that cutaneous and breast lymphomas in humans were more rigid than adjacent tissues on elastography. This increase in rigidity and heterogeneity observed on elastograms can be explained by the extramedullary interactions of the matrix in T-cell lymphomas. Tumor growth is dependent on the blood supply, which was evaluated using CEUS in these cases. Furthermore, the ciliary body contrast filling times were longer than those described in normal dogs.

Avaliação ultrassonográfica das vias biliares em cães e gatos: coletas e análises de registros médicos veterinários / Ultrasonographic evaluation of the bile ducts in dogs and cats: Collections and analyses of veterinary medical records

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar achados ultrassonográficos de cães e gatos diagnosticados com colestase, correlacionando alterações concomitantes com espécies, sexo, idade, peso, sinais clínicos e dilatação das vias biliares. O sistema biliar de pequenos animais é composto pela vesícula biliar e a árvore biliar. Desta forma, os felinos apresentam mais alterações nestas estruturas devido à anatomia diferenciada. A redução do fluxo biliar, conhecida como colestase, ocorre por inúmeras situações, sendo o ultrassom o principal exame diagnóstico empregado na medicina veterinária. Ductos biliares de 4 e 3mm de diâmetro são considerados normais para felinos e caninos, respectivamente. Neste estudo, os sistemas biliares de 41 animais, incluindo felinos e caninos, foram avaliados por ultrassonografia no Setor de Diagnóstico por Imagem do Hospital Veterinário de janeiro de 2019 a fevereiro de 2020, demonstrando a presença de cálculos vesicais em ambas as populações, assim como alterações em ducto cístico associados à pancreatite em cães.

This study aimed to evaluate ultrasound findings of dogs and cats diagnosed with cholestasis, correlating concomitant alterations with species, sex, age, weight, clinical signs, and dilation of bile ducts. The biliary system of small animals is composed of the gallbladder and the biliary tree. Thus, the felines show more alterations in these structures due to their differentiated anatomy. The reduction of the bile flow, known as cholestasis, occurs as a result of numerous situations, with ultrasound being the main diagnostic exam applied in veterinary medicine. Bile ducts of 4 and 3mm diameter are considered normal for felines and canines, respectively. In this study, the biliary systems of 41 animals, including felines and canines, were evaluated using ultrasound at the Diagnostic Imaging Sector of the Veterinary Hospital from January 2019 to February 2020, demonstrating the presence of bladder stones in both populations, as well as changes in the cystic duct associated with pancreatitis in dogs.

Lateral and medial musculatures of pelvic limbs in dogs - normal ultrasonographic anatomy

Background: Pelvic limb claudication is a common problem in dogs. However, determining the location of the lesion can be challenging. Diagnostic imaging is essential for identifying and evaluating muscle injuries. Ultrasonographic evaluation is frequently performed to identify muscle injuries. Although some muscle changes have already been described as ultrasonography findings in veterinary studies, little is known about the standardization of these muscle structures, especially in hip muscles. The objective of this study was to describe the normal ultrasound anatomy of the lateral and medial muscles of the pelvic limb and establish an unprecedented protocol for the evaluation of these structures. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 4 lateral and 4 medial musculatures of the pelvic limb of dogs were evaluated using ultrasound. An initial ex vivo study (1st phase) was performed to delineate anatomical and ultrasonographic assessments. The 2nd experimental phase proceeded with the application of in vivo scanning. The same operator performed all anatomical and ultrasonographic assessments. The gluteus medius, vastus lateralis, tensor fasciae latae, sartorius, pectineus, gracilis, adductor, and rectus femoris muscles were evaluated in longitudinal and transverse planes. Ten paired hips from 5 cadavers consisting of 3 females (60%) and 2 males (40%) were evaluated during the exvivo phase. The average age and weight of the dogs were 3.6 ± 0.87 years and 21.9 ± 5.2 kg, respectively. The invivo study included 4 females (40%) and 6 males (60%), for a total of 10 healthy animals consisting of 20 hips; the mean weight was 30.11 ± 7.45 kg and the average age was 4.5 ± 2.75 years. All muscles maintained the same ultrasound pattern when compared with each other and between different groups in the invivo study. The longitudinal section presented a hypoechoic structure permeated by thin hyperechoic longitudinal striations. The hypoechoic aspect was maintained, with striae identified as hyperechogenic points in the cross-sectional view. Discussion: B-mode ultrasonographic evaluation with a high-frequency transducer has facilitated the identification of the lateral and medial muscles of the pelvic limbs of medium and large dogs exvivo and invivo. This approach is an effective and safe way to access these muscles, and aids in the establishment of an unprecedented protocol for ultrasound evaluation of this region. Understanding the normal ultrasonographic anatomy is essential to identify muscle injuries such as contractures, tumors, ruptures, and stretch, which can lead to loss of muscle echogenicity and echotexture. Furthermore, ultrasound standardization reduces inter-observer error, facilitates technique reproducibility, assists in a more assertive assessment, and directs the patient's most appropriate therapy. In addition, anatomical dissection with the aid of acoustic gel injection into the evaluated musculature is essential to guide the examination because it allows the confirmation of the structures. In this study, the ultrasound scans of 6 fundamental muscles (gluteus medius, tensor fasciae latae, gracilis, adductor, pectineus, and rectus femoris) for hip mobility and 2 knee muscles (sartorius and vastus lateralis) were standardized. Exvivo evaluations facilitated the application of invivo techniques, and no difficulties were found during these evaluations.

Diagnóstico ultrassonográfico de corpo estranho ocular em cão / Ultrasonographic diagnosis of strange eye body in dog

Traumatismos causados com espinho de porco espinho são comuns em cães. Entretanto, estes espinhos não são inertes podendo carrear bactérias e outros micro-organismos. A indicação frente à essa situação é a remoção de todo o material sempre que possível. Ultrassonografia, tomografia computadorizada e ressonância magnética possuem valor significativo no diagnóstico e localização de corpos estranhos não visíveis no exame físico. O objetivo deste relato de caso é descrever a presença de um corpo estranho linear na região intraocular de um cão macho, três anos de idade, sem raça definida. O animal deu entrada no serviço clínico de um Hospital Veterinário com apatia e histórico de contato com porco espinho há trinta dias. Observou-se secreção ocular e olhos recobertos pela terceira pálpebra. Nesta ocasião, foram retirados espinhos de ouriço na cavidade oral e o animal foi liberado. Entretanto, o paciente retornou 40 dias com piora do quadro oftalmológico. Foi realizado exame ultrassonográfico transpalpebral que detectou uma estrutura linear hiperecoica medindo aproximadamente 1,47cm com sobra acústica evidente e conteúdo anormal de ecogenicidade mista na câmara vítrea. Encaminhado para enucleação transpalpebral que possibilitou confirmar o diagnóstico e identificar o objeto. Após a remoção cirúrgica o paciente apresentou melhora clínica significativa e recebeu alta médica em 14 dias.

Trauma caused by porcupine thorns is common in dogs. However, these spines are not inert and can carry bacteria and other microorganisms. The advice given this situation is the removal of all material whenever possible. Ultrasonography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance have significant value in the diagnosis and localization of foreign bodies not visible on physical examination. The purpose of this case report is to describe the presence of a linear foreign body in the intraocular region of a three year old, male dog, of mixed breed. The animal was admitted to the clinical service of a Veterinary Hospital with apathy and a history of contact with a porcupine within thirty days. Eye discharge and eyes covered by the third eyelid were observed. On this occasion, hedgehog spines were removed in the oral cavity and the animal was released. However, the patient returned 40 days later with worsening of the ophthalmic condition. A transpalpebral ultrasound examination was performed, which detected a hyperechoic linear structure measuring approximately 1.47cm with evident acoustic leftovers and abnormal mixed echogenicity content in the vitreous chamber. The dog was referred for transpalpebral enucleation, which made it possible to confirm the diagnosis and identify the object. After surgical removal, the patient showed significant clinical improvement and was discharged within 14 days.

Ultrasonography of the nuchal translucency of healthy and abnormal English Bulldog fetuses

Abstract The aim of this study was to measure the nuchal translucency (NT) of canine fetuses to establish reference values ​​for healthy gestational processes and to verify its effectiveness in the diagnosis of congenital abnormalities. On day 34 of gestation, the NT of three fetuses from each of the 26 English bulldog female dogs was measured. The first fetus was the one located immediately cranial to the bladder, the second was selected from the left side of the abdomen, and the third from the right side. The reference values for healthy animals were offset using descriptive statistics. The diagnostic ability of the test to identify fetal malformations was studied using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Of the 26 litters, only 18 had healthy fetuses, 4 had fetuses with anasarca, 3 had fetuses with abdominal wall defects, and 1 had both types of abnormalities. The NT was higher in canine fetuses that presented anasarca in the litter than in normal litters (1.8 ± 0.77 mm vs. 1.4 ± 0.48 mm; P = 0.0249), with a cut-off value of NT > 1.45 mm (sensitivity = 61.54%, specificity = 70.18%). NT greater than 1.45 mm seems to be a diagnostic tool for the identification of anasarca during gestation of bulldogs. Considering the unprecedented use of this parameter in canine species and the limitations found during the study, further studies will be needed in order to use it on clinical practice.

Diagnóstico ultrassonográfico de corpo estranho ocular em cão / Ultrasonographic diagnosis of strange eye body in dog

Traumatismos causados com espinho de porco espinho são comuns em cães. Entretanto, estes espinhos não são inertes podendo carrear bactérias e outros micro-organismos. A indicação frente à essa situação é a remoção de todo o material sempre que possível. Ultrassonografia, tomografia computadorizada e ressonância magnética possuem valor significativo no diagnóstico e localização de corpos estranhos não visíveis no exame físico. O objetivo deste relato de caso é descrever a presença de um corpo estranho linear na região intraocular de um cão macho, três anos de idade, sem raça definida. O animal deu entrada no serviço clínico de um Hospital Veterinário com apatia e histórico de contato com porco espinho há trinta dias. Observou-se secreção ocular e olhos recobertos pela terceira pálpebra. Nesta ocasião, foram retirados espinhos de ouriço na cavidade oral e o animal foi liberado. Entretanto, o paciente retornou 40 dias com piora do quadro oftalmológico. Foi realizado exame ultrassonográfico transpalpebral que detectou uma estrutura linear hiperecoica medindo aproximadamente 1,47cm com sobra acústica evidente e conteúdo anormal de ecogenicidade mista na câmara vítrea. Encaminhado para enucleação transpalpebral que possibilitou confirmar o diagnóstico e identificar o objeto. Após a remoção cirúrgica o paciente apresentou melhora clínica significativa e recebeu alta médica em 14 dias.(AU)

Trauma caused by porcupine thorns is common in dogs. However, these spines are not inert and can carry bacteria and other microorganisms. The advice given this situation is the removal of all material whenever possible. Ultrasonography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance have significant value in the diagnosis and localization of foreign bodies not visible on physical examination. The purpose of this case report is to describe the presence of a linear foreign body in the intraocular region of a three year old, male dog, of mixed breed. The animal was admitted to the clinical service of a Veterinary Hospital with apathy and a history of contact with a porcupine within thirty days. Eye discharge and eyes covered by the third eyelid were observed. On this occasion, hedgehog spines were removed in the oral cavity and the animal was released. However, the patient returned 40 days later with worsening of the ophthalmic condition. A transpalpebral ultrasound examination was performed, which detected a hyperechoic linear structure measuring approximately 1.47cm with evident acoustic leftovers and abnormal mixed echogenicity content in the vitreous chamber. The dog was referred for transpalpebral enucleation, which made it possible to confirm the diagnosis and identify the object. After surgical removal, the patient showed significant clinical improvement and was discharged within 14 days.(AU)

Ultrasonography of the nuchal translucency of healthy and abnormal English Bulldog fetuses

The aim of this study was to measure the nuchal translucency (NT) of canine fetuses to establish reference values ​​for healthy gestational processes and to verify its effectiveness in the diagnosis of congenital abnormalities. On day 34 of gestation, the NT of three fetuses from each of the 26 English bulldog female dogs was measured. The first fetus was the one located immediately cranial to the bladder, the second was selected from the left side of the abdomen, and the third from the right side. The reference values for healthy animals were offset using descriptive statistics. The diagnostic ability of the test to identify fetal malformations was studied using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Of the 26 litters, only 18 had healthy fetuses, 4 had fetuses with anasarca, 3 had fetuses with abdominal wall defects, and 1 had both types of abnormalities. The NT was higher in canine fetuses that presented anasarca in the litter than in normal litters (1.8 ± 0.77 mm vs. 1.4 ± 0.48 mm; P = 0.0249), with a cut-off value of NT > 1.45 mm (sensitivity = 61.54%, specificity = 70.18%). NT greater than 1.45 mm seems to be a diagnostic tool for the identification of anasarca during gestation of bulldogs. Considering the unprecedented use of this parameter in canine species and the limitations found during the study, further studies will be needed in order to use it on clinical practice.(AU)

Avaliação radiográfica da displasia coxofemoral em cães / Radiographic evaluation of hip dysplasia in dogs

A articulação coxofemoral é composta por duas estruturas osteoarticulares: a cavidade acetabular e o fêmur. A displasia é uma das doenças ortopédicas mais frequentes desta região e acomete, principalmente, cães de grande porte. A displasia é uma das doenças ortopédicas mais frequentes dessa região e acomete, principalmente, animais de grande porte. É caracterizada por frouxidão articular, formação anormal do quadril e doença articular degenerativa. Apresenta alta herdabilidade e os fatores ambientais contribuem para a expressão fenotípica e a gravidade do distúrbio. Claudicação, dor e redução na amplitude do movimento da articulação são os principais sinais clínicos, no entanto, a apresentação clínica pode ser variável. A radiografia pélvica e a avaliação clínica são os principais métodos para se diagnosticar a doença. Inúmeras técnicas radiográficas podem ser utilizadas no diagnóstico. A projeção ventrodorsal do quadril com os membros posteriores estendidos é usada pela Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) e British Veterinary Association/Kennel Club (BVA/KC). Contudo, os métodos Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program (PennHIP), Dorsolateral Subluxation Score (DLS), Flückiger Subluxation Index e Dorsal Acetabular Rim utilizam outras projeções e avaliam a frouxidão articular com intuito de diagnóstico precoce desta afecção. Objetivou-se com este artigo descrever as principais metodologias radiográficas utilizadas para avaliação e diagnóstico da displasia coxofemoral em cães, bem como suas vantagens, desvantagens e limitações de cada técnica.

The hip joint is composed of two osteoarticular structures: the acetabular cavity and the femur. Dysplasia is one of the most frequent orthopedic diseases in this region and mainly affects large dogs. It is characterized by joint laxity, abnormal hip formation and degenerative joint disease. It presents high heritability and environmental factors contribute to phenotypic expression and the severity of the disorder. Claudication, pain, and reduced range of motion of the joint are the main clinical signs, however, the clinical presentation can be variable. Pelvic radiography and clinical evaluation are the main methods to diagnose the disease. Countless radiographic techniques can be used in the diagnosis. The ventrodorsal projection of the hip with extended hind limbs is used by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and British Veterinary Association/Kennel Club (BVA/KC). However, the Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program (PennHIP), Dorsolateral Subluxation Score (DLS), Flückiger Subluxation Index and Dorsal Acetabular Kidney methods use other projections and evaluate joint laxity in order to diagnose this condition early. The aim of this work is to describe the main radiographic methodologies used for the evaluation and diagnosis of hip dysplasia in dogs, as well as their advantages, disadvantages, and limitations of each technique.

Avaliação radiográfica da displasia coxofemoral em cães / Radiographic evaluation of hip dysplasia in dogs

A articulação coxofemoral é composta por duas estruturas osteoarticulares: a cavidade acetabular e o fêmur. A displasia é uma das doenças ortopédicas mais frequentes desta região e acomete, principalmente, cães de grande porte. A displasia é uma das doenças ortopédicas mais frequentes dessa região e acomete, principalmente, animais de grande porte. É caracterizada por frouxidão articular, formação anormal do quadril e doença articular degenerativa. Apresenta alta herdabilidade e os fatores ambientais contribuem para a expressão fenotípica e a gravidade do distúrbio. Claudicação, dor e redução na amplitude do movimento da articulação são os principais sinais clínicos, no entanto, a apresentação clínica pode ser variável. A radiografia pélvica e a avaliação clínica são os principais métodos para se diagnosticar a doença. Inúmeras técnicas radiográficas podem ser utilizadas no diagnóstico. A projeção ventrodorsal do quadril com os membros posteriores estendidos é usada pela Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) e British Veterinary Association/Kennel Club (BVA/KC). Contudo, os métodos Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program (PennHIP), Dorsolateral Subluxation Score (DLS), Flückiger Subluxation Index e Dorsal Acetabular Rim utilizam outras projeções e avaliam a frouxidão articular com intuito de diagnóstico precoce desta afecção. Objetivou-se com este artigo descrever as principais metodologias radiográficas utilizadas para avaliação e diagnóstico da displasia coxofemoral em cães, bem como suas vantagens, desvantagens e limitações de cada técnica.(AU)

The hip joint is composed of two osteoarticular structures: the acetabular cavity and the femur. Dysplasia is one of the most frequent orthopedic diseases in this region and mainly affects large dogs. It is characterized by joint laxity, abnormal hip formation and degenerative joint disease. It presents high heritability and environmental factors contribute to phenotypic expression and the severity of the disorder. Claudication, pain, and reduced range of motion of the joint are the main clinical signs, however, the clinical presentation can be variable. Pelvic radiography and clinical evaluation are the main methods to diagnose the disease. Countless radiographic techniques can be used in the diagnosis. The ventrodorsal projection of the hip with extended hind limbs is used by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and British Veterinary Association/Kennel Club (BVA/KC). However, the Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program (PennHIP), Dorsolateral Subluxation Score (DLS), Flückiger Subluxation Index and Dorsal Acetabular Kidney methods use other projections and evaluate joint laxity in order to diagnose this condition early. The aim of this work is to describe the main radiographic methodologies used for the evaluation and diagnosis of hip dysplasia in dogs, as well as their advantages, disadvantages, and limitations of each technique.(AU)

Avaliação radiográfica da profundidade do sulco troclear e diâmetro patelar em cães / Radiographic assessment of the depth of the troclear groove and patellar diameter in dogs

Background: Patellar luxation is an alteration of bone development for which the indicated treatment is surgery. Failure to correct it may result in clinical worsening. The most commonly used surgical approach is the transposition of the tibial crest with trochleoplasty, which aims to accommodate 50% of the patella in the trochlea. The femoral groove and trochlea can be evaluated radiographically by tangential projection, tomography, or ultrasonography; however, all these methodologies have limitations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the depth of the trochlear groove in three regions and to compare it with the patellar diameter on simple mediolateral radiographic images. Materials, Methods & Results: Fifty non-paired pelvic limbs of adult dogs of a specific breed, weighing less than 40 kg and without orthopedic changes, were used. In the mediolateral radiographic projection, three evaluators measured the femoral trochlear sulcus at three different points and the patellar diameter. After imaging examinations, all limbs were skeletonized, and the trochlea and patella were measured with a digital caliper in the same regions as that of the radiographic measurements. All post-skeletonization calculations were performed by an evaluator. The highest mean radiographic and ex vivo trochlear depth was 3.4 ± 1.2 mm and 2.7 ± 0.8 mm, respectively. The lowest mean radiographic and ex vivo patellar diameter was 7.7 ± 1.7 mm and 7.9 ± 1.6 mm, respectively. The average relationship between the trochlear depth and patellar diameter was less than 50% in all animals, with the highest radiographically determined ratio being 44.15% and that determined ex vivo as 34.17%. The mean patellar diameter calculated radiographically was similar among the animals. Discussion: Radiographic images made it possible to assess the patella and bone surface regions of the femoral condyles. A wide arthrotomy...

Mielografia em cães / Myelography in dogs

Doenças na medula espinhal causam dor, dificuldade ambulatorial e incontinência urinária, interferindo de forma significativa na qualidade de vida dos animais. A localização clínica das lesões neurológicas bem como a característica do curso das doenças, é de extrema importância na elaboração dos possíveis diagnósticos diferenciais. Para se definir o diagnóstico e tratamento, são necessários exames complementares. Atualmente, destacam-se os exames de imagem avançados como tomografia computadorizada (TC) e a ressonância magnética (RM) como possibilidades complementares. Estes exames, entretanto, são pouco disponíveis no Brasil e em outros países em desenvolvimento, ou estão restritos aos grandes centros urbanos. Desta maneira, técnicas que exijam menor tecnologia e estão mais disponíveis, como mielografia, ainda têm papel fundamental no diagnóstico e planejamento cirúrgico de afecções medulares em locais nos quais a TC e RM são inacessíveis. Para a realização da mielografia, o paciente deve ser submetido à anestesia geral e a punção deve ser feita em condições estéreis em cisterna magna ou em região lombar. O fluir do liquor, caso o animal movimente a cauda ou membros, são indícios de que o bisel da agulha está no espaço subaracnóideo e o contraste deve ser administrado. Existem quatro tipos de padrão mielográfico (normal, extradural, intradural-extramedular e intramedular) e cada padrão pode estar relacionado a diferentes tipos de afecção. A administração do contraste no espaço subaracnóideo pode causar inúmeros efeitos adversos, sendo o mais estudado a ocorrência de convulsões após mielografia.

Spinal cord diseases can cause pain and urinary incontinence. All these clinical signs can interfere in a significant way in life quality of ill patients. The clinical localization of the neurological lesions as well as the characteristic of the diseases course are of extreme importance in the elaboration of the possible differential diagnoses. In order to define the diagnosis and treatment, additional tests are necessary. Advanced imaging exams such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) stand out as complementary possibilities. These image modalities aren ́t easily accessible in Brazil and other developing countries and are restricted to big cities. Considering this, more traditional image techniques such as myelography are still useful in spinal cord diseases diagnosis and treatment in places where CT and or MRI are inaccessible. Myelography requires general anesthesia and the spinal tap area must be clipped and surgically prepared. The spinal tap can be done in subarachnoid lumbar space or cisterna magna. Liquor fluence, twitching the tail or limbs are signs that the needle is in the subarachnoid space and myelography contrast can be administrated. There are four myelography patterns: normal, extradural, intradural-extramedullary and intramedullary) and these patterners can occur in different diseases etiologies. Subdural contrast administration can cause many side effects, the most studied is myelography induced seizures.

Mielografia em cães / Myelography in dogs

Doenças na medula espinhal causam dor, dificuldade ambulatorial e incontinência urinária, interferindo de forma significativa na qualidade de vida dos animais. A localização clínica das lesões neurológicas bem como a característica do curso das doenças, é de extrema importância na elaboração dos possíveis diagnósticos diferenciais. Para se definir o diagnóstico e tratamento, são necessários exames complementares. Atualmente, destacam-se os exames de imagem avançados como tomografia computadorizada (TC) e a ressonância magnética (RM) como possibilidades complementares. Estes exames, entretanto, são pouco disponíveis no Brasil e em outros países em desenvolvimento, ou estão restritos aos grandes centros urbanos. Desta maneira, técnicas que exijam menor tecnologia e estão mais disponíveis, como mielografia, ainda têm papel fundamental no diagnóstico e planejamento cirúrgico de afecções medulares em locais nos quais a TC e RM são inacessíveis. Para a realização da mielografia, o paciente deve ser submetido à anestesia geral e a punção deve ser feita em condições estéreis em cisterna magna ou em região lombar. O fluir do liquor, caso o animal movimente a cauda ou membros, são indícios de que o bisel da agulha está no espaço subaracnóideo e o contraste deve ser administrado. Existem quatro tipos de padrão mielográfico (normal, extradural, intradural-extramedular e intramedular) e cada padrão pode estar relacionado a diferentes tipos de afecção. A administração do contraste no espaço subaracnóideo pode causar inúmeros efeitos adversos, sendo o mais estudado a ocorrência de convulsões após mielografia.(AU)

Spinal cord diseases can cause pain and urinary incontinence. All these clinical signs can interfere in a significant way in life quality of ill patients. The clinical localization of the neurological lesions as well as the characteristic of the diseases course are of extreme importance in the elaboration of the possible differential diagnoses. In order to define the diagnosis and treatment, additional tests are necessary. Advanced imaging exams such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) stand out as complementary possibilities. These image modalities aren ́t easily accessible in Brazil and other developing countries and are restricted to big cities. Considering this, more traditional image techniques such as myelography are still useful in spinal cord diseases diagnosis and treatment in places where CT and or MRI are inaccessible. Myelography requires general anesthesia and the spinal tap area must be clipped and surgically prepared. The spinal tap can be done in subarachnoid lumbar space or cisterna magna. Liquor fluence, twitching the tail or limbs are signs that the needle is in the subarachnoid space and myelography contrast can be administrated. There are four myelography patterns: normal, extradural, intradural-extramedullary and intramedullary) and these patterners can occur in different diseases etiologies. Subdural contrast administration can cause many side effects, the most studied is myelography induced seizures.(AU)