Comparison of the effectiveness of three different rhinoplasty techniques to correct stenotic nostrils using silicone models: A case study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of three different rhinoplasty techniques on the postoperative cross-sectional areas (CSAs) of the nares and nasal vestibuli. STUDY DESIGN: Experimental study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Ninety-nine 3D-printed, remolded silicone models of a single French bulldog's rostral nose. METHODS: Models were fabricated based on a computed tomographic (CT) scan of the nose of a French bulldog with moderately stenotic nares. Each model underwent either vertical wedge resection (VW), modified horizontal wedge resection (MHW), or ala-vestibuloplasty (AVP) performed by a single surgeon (n = 33 per group). Preoperative and postoperative CT scans of the models were performed, and CSAs of the airway from the nares to the caudal end of the nasal vestibules were calculated. RESULTS: All three rhinoplasty techniques increased CSAs (adjusted p values <.001) but to different levels caudally within the nasal vestibule. Vertical wedge resection achieved this up to the start of the alar fold, MHW up to halfway between the nares and the alar fold and AVP up to the caudal nasal vestibule. Average percentage increases in CSA were 26%, 15% and 74%, respectively. Ala-vestibuloplasty led to larger CSAs than VW and MHW from the nares to the caudal nasal vestibule (adjusted p values <.05). The proportional difference within each technique was <7%. CONCLUSION: Ala-vestibuloplasty resulted in a larger increase in the airway CSA of silicone modeled nares and nasal vestibules of a single French bulldog in comparison with VW and MHW. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Ala-vestibuloplasty can be considered for French bulldogs with moderately stenotic nares and evidence of nasal vestibular stenosis.

Thoracic Vertebral Canal Stenosis and Vertebral Instability in a Young Minuet Cat.

This report describes a unique case of thoracic vertebral canal stenosis and vertebral instability in a 1 yr old Minuet cat. The cat presented with a history of chronic progressive nonambulatory paraparesis. Myelography with neutral and stress positions revealed dynamic compression at T1-4. Computed tomography and MRI revealed multiple sites of vertebral endplate osteolysis, adjacent bone sclerosis, intervertebral disk space narrowing, and spondylotic bridging within the cervical and cranial thoracic vertebral bodies and pedicles, particularly at C6-T4. The cat underwent a right-sided T1-4 hemilaminectomy and C7-T4 vertebral stabilization using positively threaded profile pins and polymethylmethacrylate. The cat fully recovered without any complication. The case highlights the potential for young cats, especially those with a chondrodysplastic condition, to develop vertebral canal stenosis and vertebral instability. The surgical treatment described herein resulted in an excellent outcome.

Clinical outcomes of the use of unidirectional barbed sutures in gastrointestinal surgery for dogs and cats: A retrospective study.

OBJECTIVE: To report the clinical outcomes of gastrointestinal surgery using unidirectional barbed sutures in single-layer appositional closure in dogs and cats. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective and descriptive study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Twenty-six client-owned dogs; three client-owned cats. METHODS: Medical records of dogs and cats that received gastrointestinal surgery closed with unidirectional barbed sutures were reviewed to collect information on signalment, physical examinations, diagnostics, surgical procedures, and complications. Short- and long-term follow-up information was collected from the medical records, the owners, or the referring veterinarians. RESULTS: Six gastrotomies, 21 enterotomies, and nine enterectomies were closed with a simple continuous pattern with unidirectional barbed glycomer 631 sutures. Nine dogs had multiple surgical sites closed with unidirectional barbed sutures. None of the cases in the study developed leakage, dehiscence, or septic peritonitis during the 14-day short-term follow up. Long-term follow up information was collected for 19 patients. The median long-term follow-up time was 1076 days (range: 20-2179 days). Two dogs had intestinal obstruction due to strictures at the surgical site 20 and 27 days after surgery. Both were resolved with an enterectomy of the original surgical site. CONCLUSION: Unidirectional barbed suture was not associated with a risk of leakage or dehiscence after gastrointestinal surgery in dogs and cats. However, strictures may develop in the long term. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Unidirectional barbed sutures can be used during gastrointestinal surgery in client-owned dogs and cats. Further investigation of the role of unidirectional barbed sutures leading to abscess, fibrosis, or stricture is necessary.

Subtotal Pericardiectomy and Epicardiectomy for Treatment of Septic Pericarditis and Constrictive Epicarditis in a Dog.

A 1 yr old, 1.7 kg, spayed female Chihuahua was presented for respiratory distress and an enlarged cardiac silhouette as seen on thoracic radiographs. Echocardiogram revealed pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade. Computed tomography revealed marked pleural and pericardial effusion, thickening of the pericardium caudally, and a mass along the mediastinum. Pericardial fluid obtained via pericardiocentesis showed suppurative inflammation with mixed anaerobic bacteria isolated on culture. Subtotal pericardiectomy and partial lung lobectomy was performed to treat septic pericarditis. Postoperative echocardiogram showed increased right-sided pressures consistent with constrictive epicarditis, and 10 days after surgery, the dog was re-presented for right-sided heart failure. An epicardectomy was performed. A definitive source of infection was not identified, although a penetrating foreign body (e.g., grass awn) was suspected. The dog recovered and 10 yr follow up revealed no evidence of constrictive pathology on echocardiogram. This case report demonstrates the successful treatment of septic pericarditis and constrictive epicarditis via subtotal pericardiectomy and epicardiectomy.

CT features of gastrointestinal spindle cell, epithelial, and round cell tumors in 41 dogs.

There is sparse published information on computed tomographic (CT) characteristics of canine gastrointestinal tumors. The purposes of this multi-center, retrospective, descriptive study were to describe the CT features of histologically-confirmed canine gastrointestinal spindle cell, epithelial, and round cell tumors and, when available, describe the corresponding ultrasound findings. The inclusion criteria were as follows: availability of pre-and post-contrast CT study, and a histopathological diagnosis of the lesions. Recorded parameters were tumor size, location, gastrointestinal wall layers involvement, lesion's growth and enhancement patterns, tumor margination, presence of stenosis, mineralization, ulcerations, lymphadenopathy, or other lesions in the abdomen/thorax. When available, ultrasound images were evaluated. Forty-one dogs met the inclusion criteria and had the following histological diagnoses: 21/41 (51%) spindle cells (7 leiomyomas, 14 leiomyosarcomas/gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs)), 13/41 (32%) epithelial (adenocarcinoma), and 7/41 (17%) round cell (lymphoma) tumors. The growth pattern was concentric, eccentric, and mixed in epithelial, spindle cell, and round cell tumors, respectively. Spindle cell tumors had the largest main volume and involved the outer gastrointestinal layer with an unaffected inner layer. Leiomyosarcomas/GISTs showed irregular margins compared to leiomyomas. Only lymphomas showed multifocal gastrointestinal involvement. Nine carcinomas and six spindle cell tumors caused partial stenosis with secondary sub-obstruction. Mineralizations were more frequent in spindle cell tumors (10/21) and absent in lymphomas. Lymphadenomegaly was widespread in lymphomas, regional in leiomyosarcomas-GISTs and adenocarcinomas, and absent in leiomyomas. The reported CT features may be useful in prioritizing the differential diagnosis between spindle cell, epithelial, and round cell tumors, similar to those reported on ultrasound.

Management of obstructive urethroliths, urethral pseudodiverticulum, and stricture by diverticulectomy, urethroplasty, and urethral stenting placement in a male goat.

A 5-year-old wether was presented for an acute onset of loss of appetite and inability to urinate. Urethral urolithiasis causing urethral obstruction was diagnosed and a cystostomy catheter was placed. The wether continued to be unable to urinate through the urethra and further developed a perineal pseudodiverticulum. Diverticulectomy followed by a urethroplasty using porcine small intestinal submucosa was performed to relieve the obstruction. The wether developed a urethral stricture following urethroplasty and the owners refused a perineal urethroplasty. Cystourethrography, fluoroscopic-guided balloon dilations, and urethral stent placement were done to establish urethral patency. The wether developed tissue ingrowth through the stent, resulting in recurrent obstruction that necessitated placement of covered urethral stents. Key clinical message: Although obstructive uroliths usually carry a guarded prognosis in small ruminants, the use of novel interventional radiology techniques along with urethroplasty using a xenograft allowed a wether to achieve urethral patency and normal urinations.

Prise en charge d'un bouc présentant des urétrolithes osbtructifs, un pseudodiverticule urétral et une stricture par diverticulectomie, urétroplastie et placement d'un stent urétral. Un bouc castré de 5 ans a été présenté pour une perte aigüe d'appétit et une incapacité à uriner. Un calcul urétral provoquant une obstruction urinaire a été diagnostiquée et une sonde de cystotomie placée. Le bouc a continué d'être incapable d'uriner pas son urètre et a développé un pseudodiverticule périnéal. Une diverticulectomie suivie d'une urétroplastie utilisant de la sous-muqueuse d'intestin grêle de porc a été réalisée pour soulager l'obstruction. Le bouc a développé une stricture urétrale à la suite de l'urétroplastie et les propriétaires ont refusé une urétroplastie périnéale. Une cystourétrographie, des dilatations par ballonnets guidées par fluoroscopie ainsi que le placement d'un stent urétral ont été réalisés afin de résoudre l'obstruction urétrale. Le bouc a développé une réaction tissulaire envahissant la lumière du stent, entrainant ainsi une nouvelle obstruction et nécessitant la mise en place de stents urétraux couverts.Message clinique clé :Bien que les urolithes obstructifs aient généralement un pronostic réservé chez les petits ruminants, l'utilisation de nouvelles procédures provenant de la médecine interventionnelle associées à une urétroplastie utilisant une xénogreffe a permis d'obtenir une perméabilité de son urètre et des mictions normales chez ce bouc.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Rapport de cas Suspected congenital unilateral ureteral atresia and hydronephrosis in a 6-year-old dog.

A 6-year-old neutered male giant schnauzer dog was presented to an emergency clinic with stranguria and pollakiuria. On physical examination, the abdomen was generally and non-painfully distended. Diagnostic imaging revealed several large, anechoic, fluid-filled, space-occupying lesions from the cranial to caudal abdomen placing extramural pressure on the bladder and urethra and apparently causing the clinical signs. Unilateral ureteral atresia with secondary ipsilateral hydronephrosis and hydroureter were diagnosed on post-mortem examination. Due to a lack of history of abdominal surgery or trauma and the absence of scarring or stenosis of the ureter, the condition was suspected to be congenital. Key clinical message: Although rare, hydronephrosis and hydroureter secondary to a congenital ureteral defect should be considered when a dog is presented with abdominal distension and several peritoneal and retroperitoneal space-occupying lesions on diagnostic imaging.

Atrésie urétérale unilatérale congénitale suspectée et hydronéphrose chez un chien de 6 ans. Un chien schnauzer géant mâle castré âgé de 6 ans a été présenté à une clinique d'urgence avec une strangurie et une pollakiurie. À l'examen physique, l'abdomen était distendu de manière générale et non-douloureuse. L'imagerie diagnostique a révélé plusieurs grandes lésions anéchoïques, remplies de liquide et occupant de l'espace de l'abdomen crânien à caudal, exerçant une pression extra-murale sur la vessie et l'urètre et causant apparemment les signes cliniques. Une atrésie urétérale unilatérale avec hydronéphrose ipsilatérale secondaire et hydro-uretère ont été diagnostiqués lors de l'autopsie. En raison d'un manque d'antécédents de chirurgie abdominale ou de traumatisme et de l'absence de cicatrices ou de sténose de l'uretère, la condition a été suspectée d'être congénitale.Message clinique clé :Bien que rares, l'hydronéphrose et l'hydro-uretère secondaires à une anomalie urétérale congénitale doivent être envisagées lorsqu'un chien présente une distension abdominale et plusieurs lésions péritonéales et rétropéritonéales occupant de l'espace à l'imagerie diagnostique.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Radiographic vertical tracheal diameter assessment at different levels along the trachea as an alternative method for the evaluation of the tracheal diameter in non-brachycephalic small breed dogs.

BACKGROUND: Tracheal narrowing due to congenital tracheal hypoplasia, acquired tracheal stenosis and tracheal collapse can lead to life-threatening respiratory distress. Tracheal hypoplasia has been identified in brachycephalic dog breeds, predominantly English Bulldogs, by measuring the tracheal diameter compared to the diameter of the thoracic inlet and creating a ratio. However, reference ranges for tracheal diameter have not been established for non-brachycephalic small breed dogs. It would be advantageous to have established tracheal diameters for non-brachycephalic small breed dogs, as these are the dogs most at risk of tracheal collapse. The main objective, of this study was to radiographically evaluate vertical tracheal diameter (VTD) at three standardized locations along the trachea of non-brachycephalic small breed dogs, in an attempt to further establish a screening diagnostic protocol for canine tracheal hypoplasia. Medical records and thoracic radiographs of non-brachycephalic small breed dogs without respiratory disease were reviewed. Right lateral radiographs were reviewed. The absolute and average VTDs at three locations (location A: caudal cervical VTD; location B thoracic inlet VTD; location C: intrathoracic VTD) were standardized by manubrium length (ML), as well as by the previously utilized thoracic inlet distance (Ti-D) and proximal 3rd rib width (PR3-W) to calculate manubrium-tracheal index (M-TI), thoracic inlet-tracheal index (Ti-TI), and proximal R3-tracheal score (PR3-TS), respectively. Correlations between averaged tracheal diameter and each of the ML, Ti-D, and PR3-W, and between M-TI and each of Ti-TI and PR3-TS were calculated. RESULTS: Eighty-one healthy dogs met the criteria for inclusion. Significant differences (P < 0.0001) were identified among the mean values of the absolute and standardized VTDs at levels A, B, and C. The smallest tracheal diameter was identified at the level of the thoracic inlet (Level B). The average VTD correlated better with ML (rs = 0.82, P < 0.0001) compared to Ti-D and PR3-W. A relatively strong correlation (rs = 0.77, P < 0.0001) was identified between the averaged manubrium tracheal index (M-TI) and thoracic inlet tracheal index (Ti-TI). CONCLUSION: M-TI is an appropriate alternative to Ti-TI and PR3-TS to radiographically evaluate VTD in dogs. M-TI < 0.43, < 0.34, or < 0.38 at level A, B, or C, respectively, may indicate tracheal hypoplasia in non-brachycephalic small breed dogs. Screening of canine VTD could be achieved using M-TI.

Constrictive bronchiolitis obliterans with a presumptive etiology of preceding feline herpesvirus infection in a cat.

BACKGROUND: Bronchiolar disorders are rarely recognized in cats. Constrictive bronchiolitis obliterans is characterized by concentric peribronchiolar fibrosis and inflammation of the bronchioles, but the underlying causes remain poorly understood in current small animal medicine. CASE PRESENTATION: A 9-year-old cat presented with paroxysmal tachypnea, infrequent cough and persistent labor breathing. Thoracic radiography showed lung hyperinflation and bronchointerstitial pattern, and pulmonary function assessment revealed flow limitation in the late-expiratory phase and poor response to short-acting bronchodilator. Dorsally distributed subpleural ground glass opacities with distinct margin and tree-in-bud opacities were observed on lung high-resolution computed tomography. The cat underwent bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and showed severe neutrophilic inflammation. Feline herpesvirus was the only pathogen detected in the BAL fluid. Multiple therapeutic attempts were unsuccessful and the cat died 8 weeks after the initial presentation. Necropsy revealed the infiltration of inflammatory cells, obstruction of the bronchiolar lumen, and submucosal concentric fibrosis suggesting constrictive bronchiolitis obliterans. Combining the pre- and post-mortem findings, as well as the time from symptom onset or BAL to necropsy, constrictive bronchiolitis obliterans was possibly triggered by a preceding feline herpesvirus infection in this case. CONCLUSIONS: The history of nonvaccinated status, lower airway neutrophilic inflammation, and presence of feline herpesvirus in the BAL fluid without coexistence of other pathogens led to the presumption that constrictive bronchiolitis obliterans was induced by a preceding feline herpesvirus infection in this cat. The pathological changes of bronchiolitis obliterans induced by a preceding feline herpesvirus infection could be different from that of cats with acute herpesvirus pneumonia, such as intranuclear inclusions would disappear over time and were no longer found 7-10 days after inoculation. The presence of patchy distribution of subpleural ground glass opacities on lung high-resolution computed tomography should raise the suspicion of peribronchiolar fibrosis. Clinical awareness of bronchiolar disorders as a differential diagnosis is important in cats with lung hyperinflation and labored breathing who show poor reversibility to bronchodilator.

Brachycephaly in French bulldogs and pugs is associated with narrow ear canals.

BACKGROUND: Brachycephalic dog breeds have multiple skull malformations which may lead to anatomical changes in the external auditory canal. It is our frequent observation that in the otoscopic examination of the external ear in these breeds we are unable to visualise the tympanic membrane as a consequence of extreme narrowing of the proximal ear canal. Additionally brachycephalic dogs reportedly are predisposed to otitis externa (OE) and otitis media. OBJECTIVES: To characterizse the transition of the cartilaginous ear canal to the bony meatus acusticus externus using computed tomography (CT) and to investigate a possible association with OE in brachycephalic dogs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-five client-owned dogs [pugs (n = 20), French bulldogs (n = 55)] were included and assessed for OE using an owner questionnaire and otoscopic and cytological examinations. In dorsal plane CT scans, the diameter of the porus acusticus externus was measured using novel methodology. The results were compared with a normocephalic control group without preexisting otological disorders. RESULTS: Brachycephalic dogs had a significantly smaller porus acusticus externus diameter (2.6 mm) than normocephalic dogs (5.0 mm). Of the brachycephalic dogs, 32% had OE yet this was not statistically significantly related to the diameter of the porus acusticus externus. Middle ear effusion (44%) and narrowing of the external ear canal (82.6%) were significantly more frequent in brachycephalic dogs. Only five of 150 eardrums could be visualised otoscopically. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Malformation of the porus acusticus externus causes severe stenosis of the proximal ear canal in brachycephalic dogs. A connection between stenosis of the external auditory canal and OE could not be confirmed.

Contexte - Les races de chiens brachycéphales présentent de multiples malformations crâniennes qui peuvent entraîner des modifications anatomiques du conduit auditif externe. Nous observons fréquemment que lors de l'examen otoscopique de l'oreille externe chez ces races, nous sommes incapables de visualiser la membrane tympanique en raison d'un rétrécissement extrême du conduit auditif proximal. De plus, les chiens brachycéphales seraient prédisposés à l'otite externe (OE) et à l'otite moyenne. Objectifs - Caractériser la transition du conduit auditif cartilagineux au méat osseux externe par tomodensitométrie (TDM) et étudier une éventuelle association avec l'OE chez les chiens brachycéphales. Matériels et méthodes - Soixante-quinze chiens de propriétaires [carlins (n = 20), bouledogues français (n = 55)] ont été inclus et évalués pour l'OE à l'aide d'un questionnaire du propriétaire et d'examens otoscopiques et cytologiques. Dans les tomodensitogrammes du plan dorsal, le diamètre du porus acusticus externus a été mesuré à l'aide d'une nouvelle méthodologie. Les résultats ont été comparés à un groupe témoin normocéphale sans trouble otologique préexistant. Résultats - Les chiens brachycéphales avaient un diamètre de porus acusticus externus significativement plus petit (2,6 mm) que les chiens normocéphales (5,0 mm). Parmi les chiens brachycéphales, 32 % avaient une OE, mais cela n'était pas statistiquement lié de manière significative au diamètre du porus acusticus externus. L'épanchement de l'oreille moyenne (44 %) et le rétrécissement du conduit auditif externe (82,6 %) étaient significativement plus fréquents chez les chiens brachycéphales. Seuls cinq des 150 tympans ont pu être visualisés par otoscopie. Conclusions et pertinence clinique - La malformation du porus acusticus externus provoque une sténose sévère du conduit auditif proximal chez le chien brachycéphale. Un lien entre la sténose du conduit auditif externe et l'OE n'a pas pu être confirmé.

Contexto - Raças de cães braquicefálicos apresentam múltiplas malformações cranianas que podem levar a alterações anatômicas no conduto auditivo externo. Frequentemente, observamos que na avaliação otoscópica da orelha externa destas raças não conseguimos visualizar a membrana timpânica como uma consequência do estreitamento extremo do conduto auditivo proximal. Além disso, cães braquicefálicos são sabidamente predispostos à otite externa (OE) e otite média. Objetivos - Caracterizar a transição do conduto auditivo cartilaginoso para o meato acústico ósseo externo utilizando tomografia computadorizada (TC) e investigar uma possível associação com OE em cães braquicefálicos. Materiais e métodos - Setenta cães de clientes [pugs (n=20), buldogues franceses (n = 55)] foram inclusos e avaliados para OE utilizando um questionário para os proprietários, citologia e otoscopia. Nas TCs em plano dorsal, o diâmetro do poro acústico externo foi mensurado utilizando uma metodologia nova. Os resultados foram comparados com um grupo de cães normocefálicos controle sem alterações otológicas pré-existentes. Resultados - Os cães braquicefálicos apresentaram o diâmetro do poro acústico externo (2,6mm) significativamente menor que os cães normocefálicos (5,0mm). Dos cães braquicefálicos, 32% apresentavam OE, mas não houve relação significativa com o diâmetro do poro acústico externo. Presença de efusão na orelha média (44%) e estreitamento do conduto auditivo externo (82,6%) foram significativamente mais frequentes em cães braquicefálicos. Apenas cinco de 150 tímpanos puderam ser visualizados por otoscopia. Conclusões e relevância clínica - Malformações do poro acústico externo causa estenose grave do conduto auditivo proximal em cães braquicefálicos. Não foi possível comprovar a conexão entre a estenose do conduto auditivo externo e OE.

Introducción- las razas de perros braquicéfalos tienen múltiples malformaciones craneales que pueden provocar cambios anatómicos en el conducto auditivo externo. Con frecuencia observamos que en el examen otoscópico del oído externo en estas razas no podemos visualizar la membrana timpánica como consecuencia del estrechamiento extremo del conducto auditivo proximal. Además, según la literatura al respecto, los perros braquicéfalos están predispuestos a padecer otitis externa (OE) y otitis media. Objetivos - Caracterizar la transición del canal auditivo cartilaginoso al meato acusticus externus óseo mediante tomografía computerizada (CT) e investigar una posible asociación con OE en perros braquicefálicos. Materiales y métodos- setenta y cinco perros de propietarios particulares [carlinos (n = 20), bulldogs franceses (n = 55)] fueron incluidos y evaluados por posible OE mediante un cuestionario para propietarios y exámenes otoscópicos y citológicos. En tomografías computerizadas del plano dorsal, el diámetro del porus acusticus externus se midió utilizando una metodología novedosa. Los resultados se compararon con un grupo control normocefálico sin trastornos otológicos preexistentes. Resultados- los perros braquicefálicos tenían un diámetro del porus acusticus externus significativamente más pequeño (2,6 mm) que los perros normocefálicos (5,0 mm). De los perros braquicefálicos, el 32 % tenía OE, pero esto no se relacionó estadísticamente de manera significativa con el diámetro del porus acusticus externus. La efusión del oído medio (44 %) y el estrechamiento del conducto auditivo externo (82,6 %) fueron significativamente más frecuentes en perros braquicefálicos. Solo cinco de 150 tímpanos pudieron visualizarse por otoscopia. Conclusiones y relevancia clínica - La malformación del porus acusticus externus causa estenosis severa del canal auditivo proximal en perros braquicefálicos. No se pudo confirmar una conexión entre la estenosis del conducto auditivo externo y la OE.

Treatment of acute traumatic nasopharyngeal stenosis with balloon dilation in two dogs.

CASE HISTORY: Two dogs were referred to Veterinary Specialists Aotearoa for evaluation and treatment after sustaining significant head trauma. Case 1 was a 7-month-old, female Staffordshire Bull Terrier who was hit by a car at low speed. Case 2 was a 2-year old, male neutered German Shepherd who sustained a gunshot wound to the head whilst on duty for the New Zealand Police Dog Unit. CLINICAL FINDINGS: The dog in Case 1 suffered numerous facial fractures which caused collapse of the ventral nasal meatus and dorsal nasopharyngeal wall. The dog in Case 2 had extensive osseous and soft tissue damage to the nose, nasopharynx and cervical region with severe narrowing of the ventral meatuses, nasopharyngeal meatus and rostral nasopharynx due to multiple fracture fragments and shrapnel pieces. A diagnosis of traumatic nasopharyngeal stenosis was made in each case by computed tomography. Mechanical balloon dilation was used to treat the stenosis in both dogs. The balloon dilations were performed using a 12-mm balloon dilation catheter inserted in an antegrade fashion. In the first dog, the procedure was performed blind and was repeated three times with 5- and 9-day intervals between dilations. In the second dog, the procedure was performed under endoscopic guidance and again, was repeated three times with a 7-day interval between dilations. Clinical success was reported in both patients following treatment and the second dog also underwent a follow-up computed tomography scan which confirmed resolution of the stenosis. DIAGNOSIS: Traumatic nasopharyngeal stenosis that was successfully treated with balloon dilation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Findings suggest that balloon dilation may be an effective technique for the treatment of traumatic nasopharyngeal stenosis in dogs. Multiple dilation procedures are likely required, but the procedure can ultimately result in long term clinical resolution.Abbreviations: CT: Computed tomography; VSA: Veterinary Specialists Aotearoa.

Osseous lesions in the distal extremities of dogs with strangulating hair mats.

Strangulating hair mats in dogs are characterized as soft tissue injury secondary to chronically matted hair, which can encircle the extremities and constrict lymphatic tissue and local vasculature. As the tissue swells, the hair constriction tightens and may result in tissue necrosis and osseous changes secondary to ischemic necrosis. The objectives of this retrospective case series were to describe the radiographic characteristics of persistent hair mat strangulation in dogs, to identify clinical features that would distinguish between dogs with soft tissue lesions only and dogs with osseous changes and to describe the clinical outcome in these dogs. All dogs with clinically identified strangulating hair matting had radiographically identified soft tissues defects and over half of the limbs evaluated had osseous lesions including focal periostitis, bone remodeling, bone atrophy, lysis of bone, and occasionally subluxation of joints. Chronically matted hair and strangulating hair mats in dogs are recognized by veterinarians as a medical finding in animal neglect. The osseous features of strangulating hair mats have not been described in the veterinary medical literature. This study describes the clinical features and radiographic characteristics of strangulating hair mats.

Dorsal offset rhinoplasty for treatment of stenotic nares in 34 brachycephalic dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the technique, outcome, and owner satisfaction associated with dorsal offset rhinoplasty (DOR) to treat stenotic nares in brachycephalic dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Thirty-four client-owned dogs. METHODS: Medical records of dogs treated with DOR at a veterinary teaching hospital over a 6-year period were identified. Dorsal offset rhinoplasty was defined as removal of a dorsal wedge of nasal planum from each naris with apposition of the rostral abaxial tissue to the caudal axial tissue, resulting in translocation of the alar cartilage in both median and dorsal planes. Immediate and postoperative complications were recorded. Owners were asked to report any complications with healing of the nares and to score their satisfaction with the appearance of the nares. RESULTS: Thirty-four dogs met the inclusion criteria. Twenty-nine (85%) dogs were examined a median of 402.5 days (range, 23-2042) postoperatively, with no major complications related to the rhinoplasty recorded. Eighteen owners responded a median of 701 days (range, 37-1622) postoperatively. One owner reported that self-trauma led to collapse of one naris. One owner reported collapse of both nares within 4 years; timing and cause were unknown. Sixteen of 17 responding owners reported that they were very satisfied with the outcome of the rhinoplasty. The owner of the dog with the collapsed naris was very unsatisfied. One owner did not provide a satisfaction score. CONCLUSION: Owners were generally highly satisfied with DOR, and complications were uncommon. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This report describes an alternate technique to treat stenotic nares.

Evaluation of L7-S1 nerve root pathology with low-field MRI in dogs with lumbosacral foraminal stenosis.

OBJECTIVE: To describe low-field MRI findings associated with lumbosacral foraminal stenosis and radiculopathy and correlate these with clinical signs. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: Client-owned dogs (n = 240) that underwent a clinical examination and standardized MRI protocol of the lumbosacral junction. METHODS: Medical records of dogs with degenerative lumbosacral stenosis with neurological clinical evaluation and MRI of the lumbosacral junction were used to describe imaging pathologies and relate them to clinical status. RESULTS: In total, 480 L7 neuroforamina were evaluated. A loss of foraminal fat signal was identified in 364 of 480 neuroforamina of which 87.9% (n=320) showed also concurrent nerve root changes. Magnetic resonance imaging features of L7 radiculopathy included nerve root enlargement and hyperintensity to surrounding connective tissue in dorsal oblique gradient echo short time inversion recovery sequences and specific changes in shape, size, or position of the nerve root in transverse T1-weighted sequences. Radiculopathy was noted as a consequence of either circumferential (entrapment) or focal (impingement) foraminal stenosis. Lateral vertebral spondylotic and intervertebral facet joint changes were the most common underlying spinal and neuroforaminal pathologies. Clinical signs were present in the ipsilateral hind leg in 85% (n = 65) of dogs with unilateral lumbosacral imaging findings. CONCLUSION: A loss of foraminal fat signal was likely to be associated with L7 radiculopathy and foraminal stenosis. Unilateral lesions were generally associated with clinical signs on the ipsilateral limb. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Loss of foraminal fat signal revealed by low-field MRI should prompt the assessment of concurrent radiculopathy and underlying stenosis, and in coherence with clinical findings, when is combined with clinical findings, improves the diagnosis of lumbosacral foraminal stenosis.

Clinical features and MRI characteristics of presumptive constrictive myelopathy in 27 pugs.

Constrictive myelopathy has been described in pugs with paraparesis and is characterized by fibrous connective and granulation tissue within the dura mater causing spinal cord compression and focal gliosis. An association between constrictive myelopathy and caudal articular process (CAP) dysplasia is suspected; however, some studies have reported CAP dysplasia as an incidental finding. The imaging appearance of constrictive myelopathy is currently limited to a small number of cases. The aim of this multicenter, retrospective, descriptive study was to detail the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics and to correlate these with clinical signs of presumptive constrictive myelopathy in pugs. Medical databases from five veterinary referral hospitals were reviewed to identify pugs with pelvic limb ataxia and paresis, that had a complete record of signalment, neurological examination, and MRI of the thoracolumbar spinal cord. The exclusion criteria were pugs with other conditions, such as unequivocal subarachnoid diverticula, hemivertebrae causing vertebral canal stenosis, intervertebral disc extrusions/protrusions, and multifocal/diffuse lesions. Twenty-seven pugs met the inclusion criteria. All cases were ambulatory with paraparesis and ataxia. Nearly 60% were incontinent. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a focal myelopathy in all cases showing one or more of the following lesions: CAP dysplasia (25/27), focal subarachnoid space irregular margination (26/27) with circumferential or dorsal contrast enhancement (10/12), and a symmetric V-shaped ventral extradural lesion (23/27). This study describes specific MRI features of pugs with presumptive constrictive myelopathy, which authors hypothesize to be a consequence of chronic micro-motion. Our results may help in diagnosing and subsequently treating this condition, which may warrant vertebral stabilization.

Congenital intestinal stenosis and Hirschsprung's disease: two extremely rare pathologies in a newborn puppy.

BACKGROUND: Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR) is a common congenital malformation of the enteric nervous system (ENS). During fetal development, ganglion cells of the ENS are derived from neural crest cells that migrate to the bowel. These cells reside principally in two ganglionated plexus: 1) The myenteric plexus, extending from the esophagus to the anus, and 2) submucous plexus, extending from the duodenum to the anus. In large animal species, there is a third plexus called Henle's or Schabadasch's plexus. ENS ganglion cells play a key role in normal gastrointestinal motility, respond to sensory stimuli and regulate blood flow. Both plexus show a high degree of independence from the central nervous system. Alterations in the embryonic development of the ENS can induce multiple pathologies in animal models and humans. CASE PRESENTATION: The present case was a female the fifth born in a litter of 5 puppies. At about 2-3 weeks of age, she suffered from abdominal distension, pain, and constipation. At approximately 8-10 weeks of age, the puppy started to vomit abundantly, and the regurgitated food appeared undigested. Progressive abdominal distention was observed, with quite visible peristaltic movements and more frequent vomiting episodes. The abdominal radiographs, based on AP and side projections, revealed an enlargement of the abdominal diameter and an increased width in the epigastric region. At 12 weeks of age, exploratory surgery revealed a stenotic segment in the jejunum, followed by a small transition zone and then a significantly reduced diameter. Immunohistochemical examinations were performed using antibodies against calretinin, S-100 protein, CD56, neuron specific enolase (NSE) and synaptophysin, which are the biological markers for diagnosing HSCR. CONCLUSION: A reduced number of ganglion cells (1-3 cells per ganglion) were found. There was no specific staining pattern for many of these; while for others, the pattern was compatible with HSCR. Surgical intervention to remove the stenotic section prolonged the life of the puppy for 13 years. Extremely rare pathologies such as that discussed herein should be studied to understand the pathophysiology and be able to diagnose small species in veterinary medicine in a timely fashion. To our knowledge, this is the first report of congenital intestinal stenosis and Hirschprung's disease in a newborn puppy.

Predictive value of plasma and peritoneal creatine kinase in horses with strangulating intestinal lesions.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the ability of plasma and peritoneal creatine kinase (CK) to predict the presence of a strangulating lesion in horses presented for colic. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective clinical study. ANIMALS: Ten healthy control horses and 61 clinical colic cases. METHODS: Creatine kinase activity was measured in peritoneal fluid and plasma of 10 healthy horses and 61 horses presenting for colic (40 horses with nonstrangulating lesions and 21 horses with strangulating lesions). Information on other blood and peritoneal fluid variables, signalment, results from the physical examination, outcome, requirement for surgery, and lesion location and type were retrieved from the medical records of horses presenting for colic. RESULTS: A peritoneal CK cutoff level of 16 IU/L yielded a sensitivity of 95.2% and a specificity of 84.6% (positive predictive value [PPV] = 76.9% and negative predictive value [NPV] = 97%, respectively) for predicting a strangulating lesion. A peritoneal lactate cutoff level of 3.75 mmol/L yielded a sensitivity of 81% and a specificity of 92% (PPV = 85% and NPV = 90%, respectively) for predicting a strangulating lesion. CONCLUSION: Peritoneal CK concentration was a sensitive indicator of the presence of a strangulating lesion in horses presenting with colic, whereas peritoneal lactate concentration was a more specific indicator. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Measuring CK in peritoneal fluid may be a useful adjunct to clinical case presentation to accelerate the diagnosis and definitive treatment of horses presenting with strangulating intestinal lesions, thereby improving their outcome.

Ultrasonographic and histopathological features in 8 cats with fibrotic small intestinal stricture.

Benign stricture is an uncommon cause of chronic small intestinal obstruction in the cat. The purpose of this retrospective case series was to describe the ultrasonographic features, histopathological findings, and clinical presentation in a group of cats with benign small intestinal stricture. Inclusion criteria were cats presenting during the period 2010-2017, and that had ultrasonography and small intestinal stricture confirmed at surgery. For each cat, clinical data and ultrasonographic findings were retrieved from the medical record, and histopathology, where available, was reviewed. Eight cats met the inclusion criteria. The location of strictures was duodenum (1/8), mid- to distal jejunum (4/8), and ileum (3/8). Ultrasonographic findings included gastric distension (8/8) and generalized (3/8) or segmental (5/8) intestinal dilation consistent with mechanical obstruction. Ingesta did not propagate beyond the strictured segment. Wall thickening was mild to moderate (3-6 mm). Normal wall layering was disrupted in all cats. Strictures were predominantly hypoechoic (7/8) and associated with hyperechoic peri-intestinal mesentery (6/8). Annular strictures (5/8) were less than 15 mm in length whereas long-segment strictures (3/8) were greater than 15 mm in length. Histopathology showed transmural disease with fibrosis and inflammation (8/8), often (6/8) extending into the bordering mesentery. The mucosa was the most severely affected layer and epithelial injury accompanied the mucosal fibrosis/inflammation. Clinical presentation reflected delayed diagnosis of chronic bowel obstruction with debilitation (8/8), marked weight loss (8/8), and prerenal azotemia (5/8). Benign fibrostenotic stricture should be considered a differential diagnosis in debilitated young cats presenting with chronic bowel disease and ultrasonographic features of intestinal obstruction.

Evaluation of the rostral projection of the sacral lamina as a component of degenerative lumbosacral stenosis in German shepherd dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the association between a greater rostral projection of the sacral lamina and clinical signs of cauda equina syndrome (CES) in German shepherd dogs (GSD) with presumptive degenerative lumbosacral disease (DLSS). STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. SAMPLE POPULATION: One hundred forty-three GSD (125 police dogs and 18 pet dogs) presenting for either CES or prebreeding evaluation. Fifty-five were classified as affected by CES and diagnosed with DLSS, and 88 were classified as unaffected on the basis of clinical and imaging findings. METHODS: The position of the rostral edge of the sacral lamina was measured from radiographs and/or computed tomography (CT) scans. This position was compared between affected and unaffected dogs. In dogs that underwent both radiography and CT scanning, the agreement between sacral lamina localization using each imaging modality was determined. Owners/handlers were contacted to determine whether dogs subsequently developed clinical signs compatible with CES at a mean of 29 months (unaffected). RESULTS: The sacral lamina did not extend as far rostrally in affected dogs, compared to unaffected dogs (P = .04). Among the 88 dogs unaffected by CES at initial evaluation, 2 developed clinical signs consistent with CES at follow-up. CONCLUSION: Rostral projection of the sacral lamina, previously proposed as a potential risk factor in dogs with CES due to lumbosacral degeneration, was not associated with a diagnosis of DLSS in this study; the opposite was true. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Rostral projection of the sacral lamina may not be a predisposing factor in the development of CES due to DLSS in GSD.

Long-term outcome of permanent tracheostomy in 15 dogs with severe laryngeal collapse secondary to brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: To report the long-term outcome of permanent tracheostomy for the management of severe laryngeal collapse secondary to brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Fifteen brachycephalic dogs with severe laryngeal collapse treated with permanent tracheostomy. METHODS: Follow-up data were obtained from medical records or via telephone conversation with the owners. The Kaplan-Meier estimator was used to calculate median survival time. Death was classified as related or unrelated to tracheostomy surgery. Complications were classified as major when they were life-threatening or required revision surgery. Owners were asked to classify the postoperative quality of life as improved, unchanged, or worse and the management of the stoma as simple or demanding. RESULTS: The median survival time was 100 days. Major complications were diagnosed in 12 of 15 (80%) dogs, resulting in death in 8 (median survival time 15 days) and revision surgery in 4 dogs. Seven of 15 (47%) dogs died of unrelated causes or were alive at the end of the study (median survival time 1982 days). The postoperative quality of life of 9 dogs was judged as markedly improved. Stoma management was defined as simple in 8 dogs and demanding in 4. CONCLUSION: Permanent tracheostomy was associated with a high risk of complications and postoperative death in brachycephalic dogs. However, long-term survival (exceeding 5 years) with a good quality of life was documented in 5 of 15 dogs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Permanent tracheostomy is a suitable salvage option in brachycephalic dogs with severe laryngeal collapse that did not improve following more conservative surgeries.