Relation of fibrocartilaginous embolism and acute and non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion with imaging tests: case report / Relação de embolia fibrocartilaginosa e extrusão aguda e não-compressiva do núcleo pulposus com testes de imagem: relato de caso

Fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCEM) and acute, non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion (ANNPE) are non-compressive myelopathies that are difficult to differentiate. The definitive diagnosis is obtained only with histology, but the presumptive diagnosis is made through clinical signs and imaging tests. The aim of this study is to report the imaging tests performed for the diagnosis of a neurological clinical case and discuss the best diagnostic method. After attending the patient, complementary tests were requested. Radiography results showed no change. The computed tomography diagnostic impression indicated distal protrusion between C6-C7, T11-T12, T13-L1 followed by mild spinal cord compression defined by the presence of a ventral hyperattenuating region. Magnetic resonance (RMI), showed a slight T2W hypersignal, well delimited in the gray matter, lateralized to the right, over the cranial third of C7. Concluding that the magnetic resonance is the method that brought more information for the diagnosis, in which the others were not described medullary alterations pertinent to FCEM and ANNPE. With their fair prognosis, the absence of histological diagnosis of these diseases may be a limiting factor in this study and, in relation to the RMI alterations being very similar between FCEM and ANNPE it is not possible to diagnose fully accurately.

A embolia fibrocartilaginosa (EFC) e a extrusão aguda não compressiva do núcleo pulposo (EANCNP) são mielopatias não compressivas de difícil diferenciação. O diagnóstico definitivo é obtido apenas com a histologia, mas o diagnóstico presuntivo é feito por meio de sinais clínicos e exames de imagem. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar os exames de imagem realizados para o diagnóstico de um caso clínico neurológico e discutir o melhor método diagnóstico. Após o atendimento do paciente, foram solicitados exames complementares. Os resultados da radiografia não mostraram nenhuma alteração. A impressão diagnóstica da tomografia computadorizada indicou protrusão distal entre C6-C7, T11-T12, T13-L1, seguida de leve compressão medular definida pela presença de região hiperatenuante ventral. À ressonância magnética (RM), apresentava discreto hipersinal em T2W, bem delimitado na substância cinzenta, lateralizado à direita, sobre o terço cranial de C7. Concluiu-se que a ressonância magnética é o método que mais trouxe informações para o diagnóstico, os demais métodos não foram descritos alterações medulares pertinentes à EFC e à EANCNP. Com seu prognóstico favorável, a ausência de diagnóstico histológico dessas doenças pode ser um fator limitante neste estudo. Em relação às alterações do RM serem muito semelhantes entre EFC e EANCNP, não é possível diagnosticar com total precisão.

Recurrent thyroid carcinoma in a dog - diagnosis by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography

Background: Thyroid tumor is a common endocrine tumor that accounts for up to 3.8% of all tumors in dogs. Most of them are malignant and usually nonfunctional in dogs. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) is an imaging modality that detects intracellular accumulation of radioactive deoxyglucose administered in the body and is used in combination with computed tomography to provide functional information with exact anatomical localization. It is used in human medicine to detect residual or recurrent head and neck neoplasm after treatments, such as surgical resection. This report describes the first case of diagnosing recurrent thyroid carcinoma (TC) through FDG-PET in a dog. Case: A 9-year-old castrated male Maltese dog presented with a palpable mobile mass in the right ventral cervical region. Radiography and ultrasonography (US) showed a radiopaque mass adjacent to the trachea, and the right thyroid gland was enlarged on computed tomography. The surgically excised mass was encapsulated and measured to be 2.3 × 1.0 × 3.4 cm (width x length x height) in size. Histopathologically, the mass was diagnosed as differentiated follicular TC, and gross and vascular invasions were observed. To prevent recurrence, postoperative carboplatin chemotherapy was performed for 5 months. Two months after completion of chemotherapy, a nodule of approximately 7 mm in diameter was detected in the thyroidectomy bed by US. FDG-PET scanning was performed as an effective means of evaluating the malignancy, local recurrence, and metastasis of differentiated follicular TC. The nodule had the dimensions of 2.8 × 5.9 × 8.6 mm, a maximum standardized uptake value (SUV) of 8.49, and a mean SUV of 5.6. The results of FDG-PET suggested the recurrence of TC; therefore, the second chemotherapy protocol using toceranib was applied for 16 months. After initiation of the 2nd chemotherapy, follow-up examinations were conducted approximately every 4 months. On the 134th day, although the nodule was not palpated, its size was observed to have increased to 5.0 × 3.8 × 13.6 mm on cervical US on the 232nd day, showing heterogeneous and hypoechoic parenchyma. On the 405th day, the tumor was enlarged to a size of 13.4 × 12.9 × 22 mm and identified as a lobular, amorphous shape, and its heterogeneity was increased. Moreover, 2 pulmonary nodules with well-defined margins were found on radiography in the left caudal lung lobe (9 × 10 mm and 12 × 12 mm [width × length]); thus, lung metastasis was suspected. On the 536th day, anorexia and lethargy occurred, and the dog was lost to follow-up. Discussion: In the present case, local recurrence of TC was suspected based on cervical US. Although US was useful as a screening tool, additional examinations were necessary for evaluating local invasiveness, malignancy, and nodal/distant metastasis. FDG-PET can detect recurrence at an early stage because it can sense increased tumor metabolism through physiologic absorption of FDG, even before the beginning of anatomic change in the lesion. Therefore, FDG-PET can assist in treatment planning and provide better prognosis. In humans, focal FDG uptake and a high maximum SUV in the thyroid gland on FDG-PET were associated with a higher risk of cancer. Because there was no evidence of neoplasia except the thyroid lesion during the FDG-PET examination, the tumor showed an increasingly malignant pattern of the thyroid gland on US during the follow-up period, and the metastatic pulmonary nodules were identified on the 650th day after the thyroidectomy, the present case was diagnosed as recurrent TC. This report describes the use of FDG-PET for diagnosing local recurrence of TC, pointing to FDG-PET as a potential strategy to evaluate loco-regional recurrence and distant metastasis of TC.

Hérnia diafragmática peritôniopericárdica congênita em uma gata / Congenital peritoniopericardial diaphragmatic hernia in a female kitten

Background: Peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia is a rare pathogenesis of congenital origin, which occurs due to a failure in the communication between the diaphragm and the pericardium during embryogenesis. Symptoms may be non-existent or non-specific, depending on the herniated organ involved and, in most cases, the diagnosis is incidental. Regarding the most indicated treatment, there are still divergences in the literature concerning the indication of conservative or surgical treatment. This study reports the case of a feline peritoneopericardial hernia, for which surgical correction was the treatment of choice. Case: A 3-month-old female kitten, no defined racial pattern, was referred to the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal Rural University of Pernambuco for treatment of a peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia. This condition was diagnosed through radiographic examination after the patient having been submitted to pediatric castration and presented anesthetic complications in the transsurgery. Blood count, biochemical profile and Doppler echocardiogram were performed, which showed no significant changes. To obtain a better study and surgical planning, computed tomography was performed to observe the heart located cranially in the pericardial cavity. Caudally to the heart, hepatic parenchyma located in the pericardial cavity was observed; and hepatic vessels presenting slightly enlarged dimensions. These tomographic findings suggested peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia; being the liver present in the pericardial cavity and signs of congestion in the hepatic parenchyma. Due to the likelihood of future worsening of the hernia, surgical correction was performed, with an abdominal midline incision in the preumbilical region to reposition the liver to its normal anatomy, followed by diaphragm reconstitution through a herniorrhaphy. After the surgical procedure, the patient was referred for observation in internment and, after 15 days, the skin sutures were removed. Complete correction of the hernial defect was observed on radiography performed 30 days after the surgical procedure. However, the examination showed the presence of deviation/ deformity in the topography of the sternum and costal cartilages, with slight cardiac displacement to the right hemithorax, suggesting the presence of pectus excavatum. Discussion: Peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia is considered rare and, despite being one of the most common causes of congenital pericardial anomaly in felines, it has a low prevalence ranging from 0.06% to 1.45%. They are usually diagnosed from two years of age, with prevalence for older animals. However, due to having presented anesthetic changes, the patient of this case report could be diagnosed early. Among the most common organs that migrate to the thoracic cavity, the liver is the most commonly observed, which is also the hernia content of the present report. Peritoneopericardial hernia is often diagnosed through radiography and ultrasound, and these imaging tests proved to be sufficient for the diagnosis in this report. However, computed tomography was important for providing a better study of case and for the adoption of median celiotomy as a treatment. Associations with other malformations are described in the literature, with pectus excavatum being the most common and also observed in this report. Peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia is a rare anomaly, rarely reported in the literature and with divergences regarding its treatment. The adoption of early surgical treatment performed in this report showed satisfactory evolution and the possibility of a favorable prognosis.

Radiological measures of patellofemoral alignment in healthy small-breed dogs: reference values and sex variability

Background: The evaluation of vertical kneecap position within the trochlear groove is essential for understanding the anatomical changes that may lead to canine patellar luxation. Unlike other important diagnostic imaging measurements (e.g. measures of pelvic limb alignment), no data on patellofemoral congruence parameters of canine stifles (congruence angle, linear axial patellar displacement, lateral patellofemoral angle, patellar tilt angle) are reported. The aim of this study was to present metric values of these parameters in healthy dogs from small breeds from both sexes in order to use them for identification of animals with increased risk for medial patellar luxation. Materials, Methods & Results: The study was performed on 44 stifle joints from 22 healthy dogs of both sexes from 4 small breeds (Pinscher, Pomeranian, Chihuahua and Yorkshire terrier). Inclusion criteria were negative patellar displacement and dancing patella tests after orthopaedic examination, lack of femoral and gluteal muscles asymmetry after palpation, lack of signs of long-term proprioceptive dysfunction, normal patellar and withdrawal reflexes after neurological examination. The translation of the patella in the axial plane was evaluated by means of congruence angle and axial linear patellar displacement. The rotation of the patella in the axial plane was evaluated through measurement of lateral patellofemoral angle and patellar tilt angle. Reference ranges of parameters were analysed in agreement with the guidelines of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists for the determination of reference intervals in veterinary species for sample sizes of 40-120 with non-Gaussian distribution - robust method, 95% confidence interval (CI) with 90 % CI for upper and lower reference limits. All measured patellofemoral congruence angles were negative. Their reference range was from -8.06o to -0.58o (median value -3o ). The axial patellar displacement was negligible, with values ranging from 0.1 to 0.8 mm. Lateral patellofemoral angles in all dogs were open to the lateral side (positive); the computed reference interval was from 21.61o to 41.80o (median 31.5o ). Patellar tilt angles ranged from 2o to 8o (median 5o ). A statistically significant difference between sexes was demonstrated for angles describing the rotation of the patella in the axial plane: the lateral patellofemoral angle (P = 0.0248) and the patellar tilt angle (P = 0.0004) were greater in stifles of male dogs. Discussion: This is the first study presenting reference values of parameters describing patellofemoral alignment in healthy dogs from small breeds on tangential radiographs. The values of one of most commonly measured parameters on tangential radiographs (the lateral patellofemoral angle) in stifles of small breed dogs were higher than values in humans, supposedly due to the specific joint anatomy. The patellar tilt angle is considered as more objective and not influenced by limb rotation. For the detection of patellar misalignment, the tilt angle was reported to be almost as specific as the congruence angle but more sensitive and more accurate. It is the most specific and sensitive parameter determining the direction of patellar luxation. In male dogs, the median lateral patellofemoral angle was greater than in females (P = 0.0248). Similar tendency was shown for patellar tilt angle that was also greater in male stifles (P = 0.0004). The reported statistically significant between-sex differences in lateral patellofemoral angle and patellar tilt angle with higher values of both angles in stifles of male dogs could be attributed to the better developed femoral muscles, in particular m. vastus medialis and m. sartorius, and to differences in trochlear groove and kneecap morphology. The presented reference intervals may be useful for early detection of subjects with increased risk to medial patellar luxation.

Extensive emphysematous pyelonephritis in a nondiabetic female cat - treatment with unilateral nephroureterectomy

Background: Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is an acute, severe necrotizing infection of the renal parenchyma and surrounding tissues that results in gas formation in the kidney, collecting system, or surroundings. EPN is a rare condition in veterinary medicine and occurs most frequently in dogs with diabetes mellitus. Although the prognosis of medical management in animals is poor, the standardized treatment protocol according to EPN severity is unclear. This report describes the first case of a nondiabetic female cat with extensive EPN and good prognosis following direct nephroureterectomy (NU). Case: A 10-year-old spayed female cat presented with the chief complaint of an acute loss of weight within 1 week, vomiting, and disorientation including stumbling, discoordination, circling, wobbling, head tilting, and difficulties in standing. At presentation, the patient had a body condition score of 1/9 and weighed 2.6 kg. Blood examination revealed leukocytosis, anemia, and hypoproteinemia. Abdominal radiography revealed severely decreased serosal details. A massive gas silhouette observed in the peritoneal and retroperitoneal cavities, was diagnosed as abdominal free gas. Abdominal ultrasound showed an accumulation of moderately anechoic fluid mixed with gas and cyst-like capsules around the left kidney. Left partial ureteral obstruction and dilation were also observed. Computed tomography (CT) was performed without sedatives or anesthetic drugs. The findings showed severe inflammatory changes in the peritoneum and a loss of the normal inner structure in the left kidney. A pyelogram of the left kidney was not observed after injection of the contrast material. Diffuse fat stranding and free gas observed in the mesentery of the entire abdominal cavity and around the left kidney were considered septic peritonitis. Urinalysis revealed proteinuria and hematuria. Numerous neutrophils with rod-type bacteria were observed in the ascites. Following diagnostic examinations, the patient was diagnosed with extensive left EPN, including inflammatory ascites and abdominal free gas. Therefore, emergency NU of the nonfunctional left kidney and ruptured ureter and thorough abdominal lavage were conducted. Diffuse inflammation and a nephrolith were observed in the section of the harvested kidney. The nephrolith was composed of 100% calcium oxalate monohydrate. The realtime polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test for feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) was negative. Escherichia coli was detected in the ascites, and antibiotic therapy was administered following the antibiotic sensitivity test. The histological findings from the left kidney and ureter included marked chronic inflammation and fibrosis. The patient was discharged 4 days after surgery. During the 8-month follow-up period, the patient's condition improved. Discussion: This was a unique case of EPN in a nondiabetic cat and the first reported case of EPN with a ruptured ureter, including abdominal free gas, inflammatory ascites, and peritonitis. This patient had a bacterial urinary tract infection with E. coli, which is the most frequently isolated pathogen in humans. This gas-forming bacteria produced a massive amount of gas and inflammation that were considered to have ruptured the urinary tract, so that the gas was released into the abdomen. This case corresponded to class 3B, with two risk factors according to the human EPN classification system. Direct NU and abdominal lavage were performed as emergency surgeries. The patient stabilized gradually and showed a good prognosis. Immediate surgical intervention is recommended in animal patients showing the extensive EPN stage.

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.

Pneumocephalus and suppurative meningoencephalitis in a dog after craniofacial trauma

Background: Pneumocephalus is characterized by the presence of gas in the intracranial compartment, and it can be developed by trauma, craniofacial surgery or spontaneously. Clinical signs start within days or months after the injury and vary according to the site of involvement. Computed tomography is the ideal diagnostic tool, however skull radiography can also be used. Treatment varies according to the severity of the case, and it can be conservative or associated with surgical intervention in the most severe cases. The purpose of this report is to describe the case of a dog that developed pneumocephalus and suppurative meningoencephalitis after head trauma caused by a bite from another dog. Case: A 2-month-old bitch, mixed breed, with 3.2 kg, was referred to the Veterinary Hospital because it had been bitten on the head by another dog. Shortly after the incident, the animal showed no clinical signs. However, 2 days later, the bitch became depressed and in persistent lateral decubitus. A lesion with a crust of approximately 0.5 cm was found close to the occipital region, with bone irregularity on palpation. The animal was in lateral decubitus with muscular hypotonia, bilateral mydriasis unresponsive to light and stupor. Radiographic images showed parietal fracture and pneumocephalus. Based on the findings of physical and laboratorial exams, diagnosis of suppurative meningoencephalitis and pneumocephalus secondary to craniofacial trauma was established. Empirical broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy was started in addition to mannitol, corticoids, and analgesics. The animal was referred for surgical debridement by trepanation, when samples were collected to bacterial culture, which was negative. Despites the care, the animal died 14 h after the surgical procedure. Histopathological examination of the frontal cortex was performed, being the histological changes compatible with suppurative meningoencephalitis. Discussion: Dog bites on the head and neck are particularly severe, and can create intracranial bleeding, disfigurement of the face, damage to peripheral structures or cranial fractures. In this report, through radiographic images, it was found that the patient had an intracerebral aerocele, since there was presence of gas in the intracranial compartment. This alteration should always be considered in animals with neurological alterations and a history of craniofacial trauma. The main neurological changes observed in the reported case were unresponsive to mydriasis and altered mental status 2 days after the trauma, and this delay in the onset of clinical signs is frequently reported in cases of pneumocephalus. Neutrophilia and leukocytosis observed can be justified by the suppurative meningoencephalitis, confirmed by the histopathological exam. Antimicrobial therapy should be started as soon as possible, and the choice must be based on their capacity to cross the blood-brain barrier and the broad spectrum. The administration of antibiotics before collecting the material for bacterial culture may explain the negative result of this test, so that it is not possible to determine whether the intracranial gas observed on the radiograph may have developed from the trauma or because of gas-producing bacteria. Head trauma can induce suppurative meningoencephalitis and pneumocephalus even in the absence of perforating wounds at the time of the consultation. The neurological signs can start days after the trauma. Besides the clinical and surgical treatments, the prognosis of any bacterial infection of the central nervous system is poor.

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.

Tumor Venéreo Transmissível (TVT) nasal com metástase óssea em um cão / Nasal transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) with bone metastasis in a dog

Background: Transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) is a highly contagious round cell neoplasm that affects dogs, and itis usually transmitted through coitus. The tumor is mainly located in the genital area; however, the neoplasm can also beextragenital, affecting the nose, mouth, and eyes, as well as the skin and superficial lymph nodes. Cytological examinationis the most commonly used method for definitive diagnosis due to its low cost and fast execution. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgical resection, and other procedures such as cryosurgery are the possible treatment options. The objective ofthis report was to describe a case of extragenital TVT with nasal primary site and metastasis in the bone tissue in a dogtreated at a private veterinary hospital in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil.Case: A 6-year-old male domiciliary Labrador Retriever dog, weighing 24.2 kg, received oncologic treatment in a privateveterinary hospital in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil. The animal had a history of neoplastic disease, and he had undergoneTVT resection associated with chemotherapy treatment more than 3 years ago. The clinical examination revealed a volumeincrease in the periorbital region, left lateral ocular displacement, left nostril excessive epistaxis, recurrent sneezing, cough,and pain signs, and tumor metastasis was suspected. Complementary exams of oncological cytology, computed tomography(CT), hemogram, and serum biochemistry were requested for diagnosis and staging of the condition, and supportive therapywas prescribed. The cytological report showed a dense population of neoplastic round cells with characteristics of TVT. CTindicated the presence of a heterogeneous hypodense mass with irregular contours and partially defined limits, with slightuptake of the intravenously injected contrast medium that obliterated the nasal cavity, maxillary recess, nasopharyngealmeatus, frontal sinus, and sphenoid sinus on the left side...

Tumor Venéreo Transmissível (TVT) nasal com metástase óssea em um cão / Nasal transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) with bone metastasis in a dog

Background: Transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) is a highly contagious round cell neoplasm that affects dogs, and itis usually transmitted through coitus. The tumor is mainly located in the genital area; however, the neoplasm can also beextragenital, affecting the nose, mouth, and eyes, as well as the skin and superficial lymph nodes. Cytological examinationis the most commonly used method for definitive diagnosis due to its low cost and fast execution. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgical resection, and other procedures such as cryosurgery are the possible treatment options. The objective ofthis report was to describe a case of extragenital TVT with nasal primary site and metastasis in the bone tissue in a dogtreated at a private veterinary hospital in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil.Case: A 6-year-old male domiciliary Labrador Retriever dog, weighing 24.2 kg, received oncologic treatment in a privateveterinary hospital in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil. The animal had a history of neoplastic disease, and he had undergoneTVT resection associated with chemotherapy treatment more than 3 years ago. The clinical examination revealed a volumeincrease in the periorbital region, left lateral ocular displacement, left nostril excessive epistaxis, recurrent sneezing, cough,and pain signs, and tumor metastasis was suspected. Complementary exams of oncological cytology, computed tomography(CT), hemogram, and serum biochemistry were requested for diagnosis and staging of the condition, and supportive therapywas prescribed. The cytological report showed a dense population of neoplastic round cells with characteristics of TVT. CTindicated the presence of a heterogeneous hypodense mass with irregular contours and partially defined limits, with slightuptake of the intravenously injected contrast medium that obliterated the nasal cavity, maxillary recess, nasopharyngealmeatus, frontal sinus, and sphenoid sinus on the left side...(AU)

Artéria subclávia direita aberrante em cão - aspectos clínicos e de imagem / Aberrant right subclavian artery in a dog - clinical and imaging aspects

Background: Aberrant right subclavian artery is only rarely observed in veterinary medicine. Some animals may present postprandial regurgitation and progressive weight loss, which is considered an incidental finding unrelated to clinical alterations. Advanced imaging techniques such as thoracic CT scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and contrast angiography are used for the accurate detection of lesions, anatomical changes and specific information about vascular rings. This paper describes the clinical changes, imaging exams and therapeutic approach in a female dog with megaesophagus induced by an aberrant right subclavian artery. Case: A 2-month-old female bull terrier, weighing 1.6 kg, with a history of regurgitation immediately or a few minutes after a meal, diarrhea, polyphagia, progressive emaciation and apathy for 45 days, was treated at a University Veterinary Hospital. The dog's physical examination revealed 7% dehydration and body condition score 1 (scale 1 to 5), but no cardiac or pulmonary alterations upon auscultation. The hematological analysis and renal and hepatic serum enzymes were within the normal range for the species. In view of the presumptive clinical diagnosis of vascular anomaly, suggested by the contrast X-ray examination, a chest tomography was performed, which revealed altered aortic arch shape and contours, and a posterior aneurysm in the area of abnormal connection of the right subclavian artery. The patient was released with a prescription for conservative dietary management for megaesophagus. Within two weeks, the patient returned with a report of a good response to the prescribed therapy, absence of vomiting and diarrhea, and an increase in body weight. Surgical correction was recommended, but has not been performed so far, but conservative treatment for megaesophagus was continued. No further episodes of regurgitation were identified during the nine-month follow-up period. Discussion: In the case reported here, the right subclavian artery is considered anatomically atypical because it arises directly from the aortic arch. This vascular anomaly passes on to the right pectoral limb, dorsal to the esophagus, contracting it in its dorsal aspect. It tends to affect purebred dogs, occurring more frequently in Irish setters, German shepherds and Labrador retrievers, although it has been described in other breeds such as the bull terrier documented here and mixed breed dogs. Vascular ring anomalies may not cause clinical changes in animals and represent only incidental findings, or they may lead to gastrointestinal changes resulting from esophageal stricture, contributing to megaesophagus and clinical signs of esophageal obstruction, especially in recently weaned puppies. Such alterations were observed in this case, with the dog presenting regurgitation, immediately or a few minutes after a meal, megaesophagus, diarrhea and progressive weight loss. A CT scan was performed to confirm the type and location of the vascular anomaly and diagnostic accuracy, as recommended in the literature. Dietary therapy is one of the approaches adopted for patients presenting with regurgitation resulting from megaesophagus secondary to vascular anomalies. The dog in this report responded well to the medical therapy; nevertheless, the treatment of choice to correct the esophageal obstruction caused by this anomaly is surgical sectioning of the aberrant vessel by right intercostal thoracotomy, given that the degree of esophageal dilation and dysfunction tends to increase over time. However, at this time, the animal's owner decided to suspend the recommended surgical procedure.

Evaluation of the degradation of two bioabsorbable interference screws: an in-vivo study in sheep

Purpose: To evaluate in-vivo degradation of two bioabsorbable interference screws. Methods: Twenty-two crossbred Santa Inês ewes were used. A poly-DL-lactide (PDLLA) screw (70%/30%) was inserted in the right pelvic limb, and a PDLLA screw (70%) + ß-tri-calcium phosphate (ß-TCP) (30%) in the left pelvic limb. Animals were euthanized at one, four, seven and a half and 18 months after surgery. Plain radiography, computed tomography (CT), microCT, and histological analysis were accomplished. Results: PDLLA screw was hypodense at all evaluation moments, but with progressive density increase along the central axis, whereas PDLLA/ß-TCP was initially hyperdense and progressively lost this characteristic. No adverse reactions were observed on histological evaluation. Conclusions: The inclusion of ß-TCP favors screw degradation since the PDLLA/ß-TCP screws evidenced a more intense degradation process than the PDLLA screws at the last evaluation. PDLLA screws showed higher bone production, evident around the screw thread, inside the lateral perforations, and in the central canal, whereas the PDLLA/ß-TCP screws presented less bone tissue at the implantation site.

Utilização da manufatura aditiva (impressão em 3d) no tratamento de osteossarcoma vertebral em cão submetido a vertebrectomia lombar: relato de caso

El osteosarcoma es una de las neoplasias óseas más comúnmente reportadas en medicina veterinaria, principalmente en perros de raza grande y gigante, siendo que la forma vertebral tiene importante escenario clínico presentando el 5% del total de reportes. Tiene un pronóstico desfavorable y un tiempo de supervivencia corto. La presentación clínica es variable y pueden observarse desde signos de dolor intenso hasta déficits neurológicos como resultado de la afectación medular progresiva. El diagnóstico puede realizarse mediante imágenes con radiografía o tomografía computarizada, y mediante análisis de laboratorio de citopatología o histopatología, siendo este último preferible para la clasificación del tumor. La resección parcial del tumor es una forma de tratamiento paliativo, indicada en algunos casos para aliviar temporalmente los signos clínicos relacionados con el dolor y los déficits neurológicos. Sin embargo, cuando hay posibilidad terapéutica, la escisión completa proporciona un mejor pronóstico y tiempo de supervivencia, principalmente cuando se asocia con quimioterapia o radioterapia. Mediante el procedimiento de la vertebrectomía, es necesaria la estabilización quirúrgica, que puede realizarse respetando los principios para la estabilización vertebral por traumatismo, siendo necesaria la colocación de un espaciador vertebral para evitar el colapso medular. Se han propu

Osteosarcoma is one of the most commonly reported bone neoplasms in veterinary medicine, especially in large and giant breed dogs, and the vertebral form has an important clinical scenario presenting 5% of the total reports. This has an unfavorable prognosis and a short survival time.  The clinical presentation is variable and signs of severe pain to neurological deficits can be observed as a result of progressive spinal cord involvement. The diagnosis can be made by imaging with radiography or computed tomography, and by laboratory analysis of cytopathology or histopathology, the latter being preferable for tumor classification. Partial tumor resection is a palliative form of treatment, indicated in some cases to temporarily relieve clinical signs related to pain and neurological deficits. However, when there is therapeutic possibility, complete excision provides better prognosis and survival time, especially when associated with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Through the vertebrectomy procedure, surgical stabilization is necessary and can be performed following the principles for vertebral stabilization due to trauma, with the placement of a vertebral spacer being necessary to prevent spinal collapse. Several materials have been proposed for the manufacture of the spinal spacer. Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, has transformed the concept of rapid pr

O osteossarcoma é uma das neoplasias ósseas mais comumente relatadas na medicina veterinária, principalmente em cães de raça grande e gigante, sendo que a forma vertebral possui importante cenário clínico apresentando 5% do total de relatos. Este possui um prognóstico desfavorável e tempo de sobrevida pequeno. A apresentação clínica é variável e podem ser observados sinais de dor intensa a déficits neurológicos em decorrência do envolvimento medular progressivo. O diagnóstico pode ser realizado por imagens através de radiografia ou tomografia computadorizada, e por análises laboratoriais de citopatologia ou histopatologia, sendo o último preferível para classificação de tumores. A ressecção tumoral parcial é uma forma paliativa de tratamento, indicada em alguns casos para aliviar temporariamente os sinais clínicos relacionados a dor e déficits neurológicos. Contudo, quando há possibilidade terapêutica, a excisão completa fornece melhor prognóstico e tempo de sobrevida, principalmente quando associada a quimioterapia ou radioterapia. Mediante procedimento de vertebrectomia, a estabilização cirúrgica é necessária, podendo ser realizada respeitando os princípios para estabilização vertebral por trauma, sendo necessário a colocação de um espaçador vertebral para evitar o colabamento medular. Diversos materiais foram propostos para a confecção do espaçador vertebral. A manufatura ad

Iohexol gastrointestinal transit times in cockatiels under sedation with intranasal midazolam by computed radiography / Tempos de trânsito gastrintestinal com iohexol em calopsitas, sob sedação com midazolam intranasal, por meio de radiografia computadorizada

This study used contrast radiography to evaluate gastrointestinal transit times in cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) and investigated the sedative effects of intranasal midazolam in this species and its usefulness in facilitating the manual restraint required for radiographic studies. Twelve healthy adult cockatiels received intranasal midazolam at dose of 2 mg/kg, and iohexol at 15 ml/kg by crop gavage. Radiographic images were obtained before contrast administration, 3 minutes after and then each 10 minutes for 90 minutes. Sedation quality of the bird was evaluated during the radiographic study and assessed according to an adapted visual sedation scale. Three minutes after iohexol administration, the cervical oesophagus and the crop were filled in all birds. At the same time, the contrast medium reached the thoracic oesophagus, proventriculus, isthmus and ventriculus in most birds. In all cockatiels, median (range) transit times were 3 (3-10) minutes for proventriculus and ventriculus, 10 (10-40) minutes for small intestine and 45 (30-70) minutes for large intestine. The overall gastrointestinal transit time was 50 (30-90) minutes.Crop remained filled with iohexol throughout the study, while oesophagus and isthmus presented a pattern of contrast progression different from the other gastrointestinal segments. According to the visual sedation scale, cockatiels presented a moderate to intense muscular relaxation, and intranasal midazolam seems to be an appropriate sedation protocol for radiographic study. All cockatiels remained healthy after the study and presented clear and watery stools at least 12 hours after, due to gastrointestinal emptying.

O presente estudo objetivou determinar os tempos de trânsito gastrintestinal de calopsitas (Nymphicus hollandicus) por meio do estudo radiográfico contrastado e investigar os efeitos sedativos do midazolam intranasal nesta espécie, bem como a viabilidade do uso deste fármaco para facilitar a contenção manual durante o exame radiográfico. Doze calopsitas, adultas e saudáveis, receberam midazolam intranasal, na dose de 2 mg/kg, e 15 ml/kg de iohexol por gavagem. Imagens radiográficas foram obtidas antes da administração do meio de contraste, três minutos depois da administração e a cada 10 minutos, até 90 minutos de estudo. A qualidade da sedação foi avaliada durante todo o estudo radiográfico por meio de escala visual adaptada. Três minutos após a administração do iohexol, esôfago cervical e inglúvio foram preenchidos em todas as aves. Ao mesmo tempo, o meio de contraste alcançou esôfago torácico, proventrículo, istmo e ventrículo na maioria dos animais. Em todas as aves, a mediana e intervalo dos tempos de trânsito foram três (3-10) minutos em proventrículo e ventrículo, 10 (10-40) minutos em intestino delgado e 45 (30-70) minutos em intestino grosso, sendo que o tempo total de trânsito gastrintestinal foi 50 (30-90) minutos. Inglúvio permaneceu preenchido por meio de contraste durante todo o estudo radiográfico, enquanto esôfago e istmo apresentaram padrão de trânsito diferente dos demais segmentos avaliados. As aves apresentaram moderado a intenso relaxamento muscular durante o estudo e a administração de midazolam intranasal mostrou-se como protocolo sedativo apropriado em calopsitas. Todas as aves permaneceram saudáveis e apresentaram fezes com aspecto aquoso e esbranquiçado no mínimo 12 horas após o estudo radiográfico, devido ao esvaziamento gastrintestinal.

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.

Pituitary carcinoma in a bitch: clinical, tomographic, histopathological and immunohistochemistry findings

Background: Primary pituitary carcinoma is rarely reported in dogs and only few reports describe its malignancy. In veterinary literature, primary pituitary carcinomas correspond up to 2.4% to 3.4% of intracranial neoplasms found in dogs andinformation regarding its biological behavior is quite limited. In humans, primary pituitary carcinomas represent less than1.0% of all tumors found in the pituitary gland. The proposed classification for pituitary carcinoma in humans and dogsdetermines that the tumor must have its origin in adenohypophyseal region and disseminated metastasis by cerebrospinalfluid or systemically to other organs must be observed. In dogs, a few reports have described primary pituitary carcinoma.The goal of this report was to describe clinical, tomographic, histopathological and immunohistochemistry features of abitch with primary pituitary carcinoma with adjacent invasion.Case: A 7-year-old female spayed Golden Retriever dog was assessed by general practice due progressive weight loss,muscular atrophy, lethargy, blindness, head pressing, and hyporexia for 21 days. Computed tomography (CT) showeda cerebral parenchyma with expansive extra-axial base formation, originating from sella turcica topography, measuringabout 2.0 cm dorsally, displacing the third ventricle, suggesting the diagnosis of pituitary neoplasia. The hormones thyroidstimulating hormone (TSH) and total thyroxine (T4) as well as stimulation ACTH test were unremarkable. After 7 days,neurological clinical signs progressed and unfortunately the patient died ten days later after hospitalization. A necropsyexam revealed pituitary gland with increased dimensions (2.5 x 2.0 cm). Histopathological fi ndings revealed tumor proliferation in pituitary gland. The neoplasm showed invasion to the nervous parenchyma and metastatic foci between the brainlobes. Immunohistochemistry was positive for keratin and neuron-specifi c enolase...

Uso do Bypass Ureteral Subcutâneo no manejo das obstruções ureterais em gatos: revisão de literatura / Use of Subcutaneous Ureteral Bypass in the management of ureteral obstructions in cats - literature review

A obstrução ureteral em felinos é uma afecção, potencialmente fatal e comum na clínica de pequenos animais por levar à restrição do fluxo normal de urina. As principais causas dessa obstrução são ureterólitos (cálculos) que podem ser classificados como simples, mistos ou compostos. Os sinais clínicos da obstrução ureteral não são muito evidentes até que a obstrução seja completa, bilateral ou que haja disfunção do rim contralateral. O diagnóstico da doença é firmado com base nos sinais clínicos, exames complementares como hemograma, bioquímico, radiografia, ultrassonografia abdominal, urinálise e urocultura, uretropielografia retrógrada, pielografia anterógrada, tomografia computadorizada e estudo da taxa de filtração glomerular ureteral. A obstrução ureteral é uma enfermidade que deve ser tratada com emergência, o tratamento deve ser determinado com base no tipo de cálculo presente, os casos mais severos necessitam de intervenção cirúrgica como a técnica bypass para descompressão. O presente artigo é uma revisão sobre a eficácia do emprego do bypass para o tratamento na obstrução ureteral.(AU)

Ureteral obstruction in felines is a potentially fatal and common condition in small animal clinics, as it leads to restriction of the normal flow of urine. The main causes of this obstruction are urolithiasis (renal calculi) which can be classified as: simple, mixed or compound. Clinical signs are not very evident until the obstruction is complete, bilateral, or when occurs a contralateral edge dysfunction. The diagnosis of the disease was settled with the association of clinical signs and the results of complementary tests such as blood count, biochemistry, radiography, abdominal ultrasonography, urinalysis and urine culture, retrograde urethropielography, antegrade pyelography, computed tomography and study of the ureteral glomerular filtration rate. It is an illness that must be treated with emergency, the treatment must be determined based on the type of calculus present, in the most severe cases it must be performed a of surgical intervention such as a bypass technique for decompression. This article is a review of the avaiable information about the effectiveness of bypass usage for treatment of ureteral obstruction in felines.(AU)

Utilização da manufatura aditiva (impressão em 3D) no tratamento de osteossarcoma vertebral em cão submetido a vertebrectomia lombar: relato de caso / Use of additive manufacturing (3D printing) in the treatment of vertebral osteosarcoma in dogs submitted to lumbar vertebrectomy: case report / Uso de la fabricación aditiva (impresión 3D) en el tratamiento del osteosarcoma vertebral en perros sometidos a vertebrectomía lumbar: caso clínico

O osteossarcoma é uma das neoplasias ósseas mais comumente relatadas na medicina veterinária, principalmente em cães de raça grande e gigante, sendo que a forma vertebral possui importante cenário clínico apresentando 5% do total de relatos. Este possui um prognóstico desfavorável e tempo de sobrevida pequeno. A apresentação clínica é variável e podem ser observados sinais de dor intensa a déficits neurológicos em decorrência do envolvimento medular progressivo. O diagnóstico pode ser realizado por imagens através de radiografia ou tomografia computadorizada, e por análises laboratoriais de citopatologia ou histopatologia, sendo o último preferível para classificação de tumores. A ressecção tumoral parcial é uma forma paliativa de tratamento, indicada em alguns casos para aliviar temporariamente os sinais clínicos relacionados a dor e déficits neurológicos. Contudo, quando há possibilidade terapêutica, a excisão completa fornece melhor prognóstico e tempo de sobrevida, principalmente quando associada a quimioterapia ou radioterapia. Mediante procedimento de vertebrectomia, a estabilização cirúrgica é necessária, podendo ser realizada respeitando os princípios para estabilização vertebral por trauma, sendo necessária a colocação de um espaçador vertebral para evitar o colabamento medular. Diversos materiais foram propostos para a confecção do espaçador vertebral. A manufatura aditiva, também conhecida como impressão 3D, tem transformado o conceito de prototipagem rápida em realidade, devido a habilidade de fabricar peças geométricas específicas de alta complexidade e de forma rápida, permitindo elaborar protótipos para uso pré ou transoperatórios em cirurgias ortopédicas de alta complexidade. O polietileno tereftalato glicol (PETG), por ser um termoplástico de alta resistência, não-biodegradável, biocompatível e de baixo custo é foco desse trabalho no desenvolvimento do espaçador vertebral como estabilizador em um procedimento de vertebrectomia em cão.

Osteosarcoma is one of the most commonly reported bone neoplasms in veterinary medicine, especially in large and giant breed dogs, and the vertebral form has an important clinical scenario presenting 5% of the total reports. This has an unfavorable prognosis and a short survival time. The clinical presentation is variable and signs of severe pain to neurological deficits can be observed as a result of progressive spinal cord involvement. The diagnosis can be made by imaging with radiography or computed tomography, and by laboratory analysis of cytopathology or histopathology, the latter being preferable for tumor classification. Partial tumor resection is a palliative form of treatment, indicated in some cases to temporarily relieve clinical signs related to pain and neurological deficits. However, when there is therapeutic possibility, complete excision provides better prognosis and survival time, especially when associated with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Through the vertebrectomy procedure, surgical stabilization is necessary and can be performed following the principles for vertebral stabilization due to trauma, with the placement of a vertebral spacer being necessary to prevent spinal collapse. Several materials have been proposed for the manufacture of the spinal spacer. Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, has transformed the concept of rapid prototyping into reality, due to its ability to quickly manufacture specific geometric parts of high complexity, allowing the elaboration of prototypes for pre- or trans-operative use in highly complex orthopedic surgeries. Polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), being a high-strength, non-biodegradable, biocompatible and low-cost thermoplastic, is the focus of this work in the development of the vertebral spacer as a stabilizer in a vertebrectomy procedure in a dog.

El osteosarcoma es una de las neoplasias óseas más comúnmente reportadas en medicina veterinaria, principalmente en perros de raza grande y gigante, siendo que la forma vertebral tiene importante escenario clínico presentando el 5% del total de reportes. Tiene un pronóstico desfavorable y un tiempo de supervivencia corto. La presentación clínica es variable y pueden observarse desde signos de dolor intenso hasta déficits neurológicos como resultado de la afectación medular progresiva. El diagnóstico puede realizarse mediante imágenes con radiografía o tomografía computarizada, y mediante análisis de laboratorio de citopatología o histopatología, siendo este último preferible para la clasificación del tumor. La resección parcial del tumor es una forma de tratamiento paliativo, indicada en algunos casos para aliviar temporalmente los signos clínicos relacionados con el dolor y los déficits neurológicos. Sin embargo, cuando hay posibilidad terapéutica, la escisión completa proporciona un mejor pronóstico y tiempo de supervivencia, principalmente cuando se asocia con quimioterapia o radioterapia. Mediante el procedimiento de la vertebrectomía, es necesaria la estabilización quirúrgica, que puede realizarse respetando los principios para la estabilización vertebral por traumatismo, siendo necesaria la colocación de un espaciador vertebral para evitar el colapso medular. Se han propuesto varios materiales para la fabricación del espaciador vertebral. La fabricación aditiva, también conocida como impresión 3D, ha transformado el concepto de prototipado rápido en una realidad, debido a la capacidad de fabricar piezas geométricas específicas de gran complejidad y con rapidez, lo que permite la elaboración de prototipos para su uso pre o trans-operatorio en cirugías ortopédicas de gran complejidad. El polietileno tereftalato glicol (PETG), por ser un termoplástico de alta resistencia, no biodegradable, biocompatible y de bajo costo es el foco de este trabajo en el desarrollo del espaciador vertebral como estabilizador en un procedimiento de vertebrectomía en un perro.

Pelvic fracture in a cat - precontouring of the plate based on allogenic 3D model and its application

Background: Pelvic fractures are commonly ecountered in cats. The ilium is included in approximately 50% of pelvic fractures in cats. Although conservative management of the pelvic fracture is known to have good prognosis, surgical fixation is recommended for the pelvic fracture with ilial fractures. 3D printing is an accurate digital modeling method by converting two-dimensional (2D) images into 3D model. 3D printing in veterinary medicine has been described in the various orthopedic diseases such angular limb deformities or fractures. The use of 3D model for presurgical planning is helpful to improve the results of complex surgical interventions. The objective of this study is to identify the usefulness of fabricating 3D models based on allogenic 2D data with aid of 3D printer program. Case: A 4-year-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat presented with hindlimb lameness. Radiography revealed left ilial body fracture with multiple fractures including left tuber ischium, pubic symphysis, and bilateral cranial ramuses of pubis. Digital imaging and communication in medicine (DICOM) files of the complete ilium were extracted from a computed tomography (CT) scan of a healthy and castrated male cat of same breed. Volume rendering images were prepared by Slicer program based on DICOM files. After acquired 3D data were converted to STL (Standard Triangulation Language) file for the 3D printing machine, non-fracture involved area was removed except the left ilium using the Meshmixer® software and then data was stored as STL files again. The length of 3D model was adjusted to actual size using 3D printer firmware based on actual size of the ilial length. Subsequently, 3D modelling was performed using 3D printer. The plate was precontoured to conform to the lateral surface of the 3D model. Internal fixation using precontoured plate resulted in accurate bone alignment. The alignment of the ilium remained appropriate throughtout the follow-up period. Complete union was identified 6 months after surgery. Discussion: Although the most common method for the ilial fractures is the application of bone plates to the lateral side of the ilium, bone plate fixation is more challenging in cats owing to the small bone size and small surface area of the fracture sites compared to dogs. Therefore, it is important to make accurate presurgical planning for successful result of a surgery. 3D printing based on actual patient have several limitations including time for complete printing process and additional anesthetic episode to acquire CT images. However, in simple cases, a presurgical CT scan may not be necessary if the plate can be precisely precontured based on the data from the other patient. In this way, the additional financial burden for CT examination also might be reduced. On the other hand, technical difficulty of utilizing hardware and software, and financial availability were another drawback. However, in this current study, most of limitations regarding conventional 3D printing based on actual patient were overcome by the application of the fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology with allogenic data. In the current study, total time for fabrication of 3D model based on FDM technology, was less than 3 h, which are much shorter than the time for conventional 3D printing. The difference of the ilial length between the actual patient and the 3D model was adjusted through the firmware program. Thus, differences of the conformation or size between the 3D model and the ilium of the patient was negligible during the surgery, although 2D images were not acquired from actual patient. Intraoperative contouring of the plate was not required. In conclusion, through presurgical plate contouring by the 3D bone template based on non-patient specific data, successful treatment of the ilial fracture was possible.

Vantagens do rastreamento precoce de metástases por tomografia computadorizada na rotina clínica oncológica de tumores mamários em cadelas: revisão de literatura / Advantages of early metastasis screening by computed tomography in the clinical oncology routine of breast tumors in bitches: literature review

Os avanços clínicos, terapêuticos e diagnósticos ocorridos na Medicina Veterinária permitiram que a longevidade dos animais de estimação fosse ampliada. Com isso a casuística de atendimentos oncológicos na rotina clínica veterinária também vem crescendo, visto que a idade avançada é um grande fator predisponente ao câncer. O diagnóstico precoce é fundamental para o sucesso terapêutico, e os exames de imagem apresentam grande utilidade para a detecção tumoral e de metástases. O presente trabalho é uma revisão bibliográfica que analisa as vantagens da aplicabilidade de exames por imagem, mais precisamente da tomografia computadorizada (TC), em casos oncológicos de tumores das glândulas mamárias, com destaque para a sua importância no diagnóstico, estadiamento, planejamento e acompanhamento terapêutico na rotina clínica oncológica veterinária.

With the increase in the longevity of pets, mainly dogs and cats, due to their closer relationship with humans and also the clinical, therapeutic and diagnostic advances that occurred in veterinary medicine, it was observed an increase in the occurrence of oncological cases in the routine attendance of small animals. This article perform a bibliographic review, analysing the advantages of the applicability of imaging exams, more precisely computed tomography (CT), in oncological cases of tumor of the mammary glands, aiming to demonstrate its importance in the diagnosis, staging and therapeutic planning in veterinary oncology clinical routine.