Endoscopic techniques for early diagnosis of cloacal pathologies and sex determination in blue spotted tree monitor (Varanus macraei) and Cuming's water monitor (Varanus cumingi).

This article attempts to present, for the first time, the usefulness and feasibility of using endoscopic techniques in the cloacal region of Varanus cumingi and Varanus macraei. This method can serve both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, as well as offering an early approach to sex determination through the observation of the urodeum which in males ends in a blind end while in females it consists of two ostia which represent the outlets of the oviducts. In this context, commonly employed sex determination techniques, such as post-cloacal spur detection, have shown unreliability. The study involved the examination of ten specimens, approximately one year old, from a private breeding farm, following a complete clinical evaluation to confirm their general state of health. All subjects underwent sedation, which allowed the evaluation of anatomical structures, the health status of the cloaca and the determination of sex. This study and its findings may provide a critical basis for addressing population declines of these species, particularly for V. macraei, which has already been classified as 'endangered' by the IUCN.

Feasibility and accuracy of intraosseous endoscopy for inspection of thoracolumbar and lumbar pedicle drill tracts in a canine large-breed cadaveric model.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility of endoscopic inspection of thoracolumbar and lumbar pedicle tracts in a canine large-breed model and its accuracy for the detection of breached versus nonbreached tracts. ANIMALS: 2 greyhound cadavers. METHODS: CT scans of 2 greyhound cadavers from the sixth thoracic vertebra to the sacrum were obtained. Fifty-six pedicles were randomized to have drill tracts with different modified Zdichavsky grades (nonbreached, partial/full medial breach, or partial/full lateral breach) using 3-D-printed guides. Endoscopy was performed on a single occasion from October 9 to 10, 2023, using a 1.9-mm 0-degree needle arthroscope in a randomized blinded fashion. The grading of drill tracts was performed on postoperative CT. Specificity, sensitivity, positive and negative predictive values, and time to assign endoscopic grade were investigated. RESULTS: Postoperative CT confirmed 43 nonbreached tracts, 7 medial breaches (partial/full), and 5 lateral breaches (partial/full). One tract was excluded because of guide misplacement. Intraosseous endoscopy was successfully performed in the remaining 55 drill tracts. Sensitivity to detect medial and lateral breaches was 71.4% and 60.0%. Negative predictive value was 93.1%. Specificity was 94.2%. Positive predictive value for detection of medial and lateral breaches was 83.3% and 54.5%. Median (range) time to assign an endoscopic grade was 118 (30 to 486) seconds. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Intraosseous endoscopy of pedicle drill tracts may be a useful adjunct technique during pedicle screw/pin placement in dogs.

Outcome of tenoscopically guided palmar/plantar annular ligament desmotomy for the treatment of palmar/plantar annular ligament constriction without concurrent intrathecal soft-tissue injury in a UK horse population.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the outcome of tenoscopically guided palmar/plantar annular ligament (PAL) desmotomy to treat PAL constriction without concurrent intrathecal soft-tissue injury, notably of the digital flexor tendons and manica flexoria. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective multicenter cohort study. ANIMALS: Sixty-five horses. METHODS: Horses from four UK equine hospitals, with digital flexor tendon sheath (DFTS) tenosynovitis, which underwent tenoscopically guided PAL desmotomy for treatment of PAL constriction between 2017 and 2022 were included. All horses had lameness isolated to the DFTS/PAL, and PAL constriction was diagnosed tenoscopically when there was difficulty maneuvering the endoscope into or through the fetlock canal. Horses with tearing of the digital flexor tendons and/or manica flexoria, or any other intrathecal pathology, were excluded. Follow up was via structured telephone questionnaire. RESULTS: Follow up (median 25 months) was available for 61 horses with cobs and ponies predominating. Forty-two returned to their previous level of work, or a higher level, postoperatively and 50 owners were satisfied with the outcome of surgery. Eleven horses returned to lower level exercise, and six were retired/euthanized as they did not regain soundness. Fifty-two horses achieved soundness (median 3 months postoperatively). CONCLUSION: Tenoscopically guided PAL desmotomy for the treatment of PAL constriction in the absence of intrathecal soft tissue injury had a good prognosis for return to previous levels of exercise in a UK horse population. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The prognosis for horses undergoing tenoscopically guided PAL desmotomy to treat PAL constriction in the absence of intrathecal injury is better than previously described. Cobs and ponies seem to be predisposed to PAL constriction in agreement with the previous literature.

Ultrasonographic, endoscopic and radiographic examinations of the dromedary mammary glands and teats.

The aim of the present study was to examine the mammary gland of dromedary camels using ultrasonography, endoscopy and radiography. These techniques are easy to perform in the field and feasible to diagnose pathological conditions of the mammary gland. Udders of 49 slaughtered and 26 adult dromedary camels submitted for necropsy were used for the examinations. Additionally, 11 lactating female dromedary camels were selected for the ultrasonographic udder examination. The transition from the milk ducts into the udder cistern, the teat cistern and the teat canals were examined in individual udders. Teat cistern length, teat end width, teat wall thickness, teat cistern width and middle cistern wall thickness were measured using ultrasonography. The measurements resulted in mean values of the teat cistern length of 37.3 mm, the teat end width of 2.0 mm, the teat wall thickness of 4.4 mm, the teat cistern width of 8.2 mm and the cistern wall thickness of 3.5 mm. The teat wall was differentiated into three layers, a hyperechoic outer layer, a hypoechoic middle layer and a hyperechoic inner layer. The mid cistern wall was hyperechoic. Endoscopic examination is an easy to perform and practicable method for examining the inner structures of the teats of dead animals; however, the feasibility has not been shown in lactating animals yet. Ring-like folds were present in the teat cistern, which protruded horizontally into the lumen. It was also possible to visualize the branchlike transition of the teat cistern into the larger milk ducts. Radiographic examination using barium sulfate contrast medium showed that the teat cistern ends in a network of initially wide but branching and narrowing milk ducts. The two teat canals and cisterns are completely independent of each other and there is no communication between the glandular tissue of the two canals and cisterns.

Stakeholder perceptions of thoroughbred yearling sales endoscopy in Australia: can we do better?

OBJECTIVE: To identify thoroughbred industry stakeholders' views on the yearling sales endoscopy in Australia. DESIGN: Semi-structured qualitative group interviews with equine veterinarians, thoroughbred breeders and yearling purchasers. METHODS: Twenty-nine experienced thoroughbred industry stakeholders participated in online focus groups: (1) equine veterinarians involved in yearling endoscopy; (2) thoroughbred breeders; and (3) yearling buyers. The focus groups were audio and video recorded and digital whiteboards were available. Data was transcribed, live-coded and analysed thematically. RESULTS: The main themes identified included the uncertainty surrounding the relationship between yearling laryngeal function and future performance, especially the significance of yearlings with grade 3 out of 5 laryngeal function; interobserver variability in the laryngeal function grade assigned by veterinarians to the same endoscopic exam; and the presence of intra-horse variability in laryngeal function over different time points. DISCUSSION: Stakeholders raised multiple concerns about the current yearling sales endoscopy process in Australia. Recommendations to address these concerns include further investigation into the race performance of yearlings identified with grade 3 laryngeal function; training of veterinarians to reduce inter-observer variability; and the need to determine the most appropriate grading system to use in yearlings. Future research should evaluate the significance of intra-horse variability in a yearling population.

The role of endoscopy in bovine internal medicine - A review of current indication fields.

Endoscopy in bovine internal medicine has come a long way from the first profound research papers in the 1980s to its present-day use. This paper reviews the progress in the 2000s and identifies the main application fields for diagnostic and therapeutic use. Inclusion criteria for scientific papers and reports encompassed focus on endoscopic examination techniques in cattle in the field of internal medicine and publication in a peer reviewed journal (case report/review/original research paper/short communication). Only papers written in English or German language were considered. Studies on laparoscopy, theloscopy, and bronchoscopy show that endoscopic approaches often enable more rapid and accurate diagnosis and treatment options for single diseased animals as well as on a herd level. Oesophagoscopy, rumenoscopy, cystoscopy and thoracoscopy have also been increasingly studied and proven to be safe and effective tools with some limitations in diagnosing and/or treating various diseases in cattle. Scientific approaches explored the epidural space in cattle and comparison of different endoscope systems lead to recommendations for sinuscopy. Yet, this narrative literature review clearly shows that unlike in human medicine, where endoscopy as a minimally invasive technique is used for countless routine procedures every day, there is still some catching up to do in bovine medicine even though the potential of endoscopy in this field has been documented.

Nasal angioleiomyoma in 2 dogs.

This case report describes 2 dogs, an Appenzeller Mountain dog and an Irish Wolfhound, with angioleiomyoma within the nasal cavity. Endoscopic surgical resection resulted in cure in both dogs. Macroscopically and on diagnostic imaging, tumor masses may appear malignant because of local turbinate destruction. This highlights the importance of histological examination before any recommendations are made to owners because tumors of the nasal cavity may be benign and surgery curative.

Laser-Assisted Retropharyngeal Rigid Nasopharyngoscopy in Dogs.

This article reviews minimally invasive approaches to the nasopharynx. It also introduces a novel approach, transbuccal retrograde rigid pharyngoscopy, and describes three cases in which this approach was used.

Clinical manifestations, endoscopic findings and outcomes of tonsillar fossa foreign bodies in dogs: seven cases (2020-2023).

OBJECTIVES: Clinical presentation and outcomes of dogs with tonsillar foreign bodies are not described in the literature. The objective of this case series is to describe the presence, clinical manifestations, endoscopic findings and outcomes of foreign bodies in the palatine tonsillar fossa of dogs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Medical records of dogs in which tonsillar fossa foreign bodies were removed by endoscopy between 2020 and 2023 at a referral centre were reviewed. Dogs were included if complete medical records were available. RESULTS: Seven dogs were included. Among all clinical signs reported, acute onset of throat clearing occurred in all dogs. Palatine tonsil enlargement and protrusion from the tonsillar fossa were observed in four of seven dogs. Foreign bodies were removed under endoscopic guidance in all dogs; a vegetal foreign body was found in all but one dog (6/7). Complete resolution of clinical signs was reported in the five dogs for which follow-up information was available. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The tonsillar fossa is a rare but possible location for foreign bodies in dogs and should be explored even in the absence of macroscopic lesions of the tonsils, since some dogs could have a normal palatine tonsil appearance. Acute throat clearing should raise the suspicion of tonsillar fossa foreign bodies. The prognosis appears good after removal.

Endoscopic and surgical treatment of non-neoplastic proximal duodenal ulceration in dogs, and anatomical study of proximal duodenal vascularisation.

OBJECTIVES: Proximal duodenal ulceration is often characterised by continuous bleeding, and treatment is challenging. The aims of this study were to investigate the role of vascularisation in proximal duodenal ulceration and describe clinical aspects, endoscopic features and treatment in dogs. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Polyurethane foam casts of gastroduodenal vessels were obtained from five dogs which had died from disorders unrelated to the digestive system. In addition, 12 dogs having proximal duodenal ulcers diagnosed by endoscopic examination were enrolled in a treatment trial. After the endoscopic diagnosis of a duodenal ulcer, all the dogs were treated medically and, in the absence of resolution, were subsequently treated by endoscopic electrocauterisation or by surgery. RESULTS: A submucosal vascular network was evident in all the casts, with a prominent venous plexus seen exclusively in the first half inch of the duodenum. In clinical cases, on endoscopic examination, the duodenal ulcer was located at the proximal part of the duodenum, involving the mesenteric portion of the wall. The dogs not responding to medical treatment (6/12) were treated with endoscopic electrocauterisation, surgical coagulation or resection of the proximal duodenal portion. All the dogs survived until discharge, and the median survival time following discharge was 107.5 days. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Based on the anatomical details highlighted in this study, the continuous bleeding observed in our patients may have been due to the prominent venous plexus evidenced at the level of the proximal duodenum. Surgical and endoscopic treatments in six patients resolved the ulcer bleeding with no recurrences noted during follow-up.

Retroperitoneoscopy of the presacral space in horses: Surgical access and anatomy.

BACKGROUND: Surgical approaches to the equine rectum and perirectal area are described in the literature. However, surgeries in this region can be challenging. OBJECTIVE: To describe the surgical anatomy of the presacral space and to evaluate its access using a retroperitoneoscopic approach. STUDY DESIGN: Ex vivo experiment. METHODS: Preliminary dissections were performed in two cadavers to define the boundaries of the presacral space and to determine portal locations for the surgical approach. After that, nine cadavers were used for experimental presacral retroperitoneoscopic procedure in a standing position. Following retroperitoneoscopy, cadavers were dissected to confirm the anatomical structures observed during the endoscopic procedures, to control the location of each portal and to record iatrogenic trauma. RESULTS: The presacral space was bordered by the vertebral column from the ventral aspect of lumbosacral promontorium to the first coccygeal vertebra dorsally and by the presacral fascia and peritoneum ventrally. Lateral limits were composed of the sacrosciatic ligament and transversalis fascia. Cranial and caudal borders were composed of the peritoneum and coccygeal and levator ani muscles respectively. Retroperitoneoscopic portals were placed between the external anal sphincter and semimembranosus muscles and between the base of the tail and the external anal sphincter muscle through the anococcygeal fascia to enter the space by its caudal border. The retroperitoneal space was reached in all cases and the dorsal and lateral aspects of the rectum were visualised after creation of a working space. MAIN LIMITATIONS: Use of cadaver specimens do not permit to evaluate the tolerance in living animals and the surgical complications such as rectal damage, haemorrhage and infection. CONCLUSION: This study provides an anatomical description and surgical access of the presacral space with a minimal invasive approach. Retroperitoneoscopy allows access to the rectum and the dorsal aspect of the pelvis.

Lower airway ultrasonographic, endoscopic, and cytological changes in horses undergoing inhalation anesthesia with controlled ventilation for minor elective surgeries.

Effects of general anesthesia with controlled ventilation on the respiratory system have had limited evaluation in horses. A prospective observational study was performed with eleven client-owned horses undergoing elective surgery. Physical examination, auscultation with a rebreathing bag, complete blood cell count, lung ultrasound imaging, tracheal endoscopy imaging and transendoscopic tracheal wash were conducted before and 24 hours after anesthesia. Lung ultrasound imaging was also repeated just after recovery. A significant increase in blood neutrophil count between pre- and post-anesthesia (P=0.004) was observed. There was an increase in ultrasonographic score of the lungs at recovery (left P=0.007, right P=0.017). The score of the dependent lung was higher than the independent lung at recovery time (P=0.026) but no difference was observed 24 hours after anesthesia. The tracheal mucus score was higher after anesthesia (P=0.001); severe local inflammation was present in several horses at the site of endotracheal tube cuff. Neutrophil count was significantly higher on tracheal wash fluid cytology after anesthesia (P=0.016), without any significant changes on bacterial load. Increased tracheal mucus score and neutrophil count in tracheal wash samples were observed after general anesthesia in healthy horses without clinical evidence of pneumonia (fever, cough). Tracheal inflammation secondary to endotracheal intubation and cuff inflation was, therefore, suspected. Elective surgery without complications can induce inflammation of the trachea and changes in ultrasound images of the lungs in healthy horses and should be considered when evaluating respiratory system after a general anesthesia.

Flap of the sternocephalicus muscle in the repair of a partial defect in the trachea of a rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Purpose: The current study aimed at evaluating the repair of a partial defect of the trachea with a muscle flap, an advanced technique that employs combined suture patterns. Methods: Sixteen healthy male New Zealand white rabbits were used as an experimental model. A partial defect in the trachea within the ventral region of the fourth to eighth tracheal ring was created. Subsequently, repair was initiated with a flap of the sternocephalicus muscle. The animals were divided into four groups for postoperative evaluation using clinical, tracheoscopic, and histopathological analyses. Each group was separated according to the time of euthanasia, programmed at interval of seven (G7), 15 (G15), 30 (G30), and 60 days (G60). Results: One animal from the G60 group died, whereas the other animals had good surgical recovery without serious changes in the breathing pattern. The major clinical signs observed were stridor and coughing. Tracheoscopy revealed secretions in the tracheal lumen, exuberant granulation, and stenosis. Histopathological analysis showed growth of the ciliary respiratory epithelium at the flap site 30 days after implantation. Conclusions: Partial repair showed satisfactory results owing to the anatomical location of the muscle, adequate vascular support, and structural and physiological maintenance without serious changes in the respiratory system.

Presence and size of synovial masses within the navicular bursa correlate well between magnetic resonance imaging and bursoscopy and have a guarded prognosis.

BACKGROUND: Focal hyperintense lesions within the navicular bursa emanating from the dorsal border of the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) can be recognised on T1-weighted magnetic resonance images (MRI) and have been attributed to lameness in horses. Removal of these lesions, also referred to as synovial masses, by navicular bursoscopy is currently recommended. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the correlation between MRI and navicular bursoscopic findings. It is hypothesised that the prognosis following surgery is proportional to the size of the DDFT lesion. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective analysis of clinical records. METHODS: Horses undergoing standing low-field MRI and navicular bursoscopy with >1 year follow-up were included. A grading system was developed to classify the size of synovial mass(es) and lesion(s) of the DDFT on MRI and at surgery. Generalised estimating equations were used to evaluate the association between MRI findings and surgery and between outcome and severity of the tendon injury. RESULTS: Fifty-nine horses presenting over a 15-year period (2006-2021) fulfilled inclusion criteria. Ninety navicular bursae were examined both on MRI and endoscopically. There was strong correlation between the size of synovial masses and tendon lesions on MRI and bursoscopy (p < 0.001, OR: 25.61, 95% CI 8.71-75.29 and p < 0.001, OR: 7.34, 95% CI 2.70-19.92, respectively). Size of tendon lesion and synovial mass had no impact on prognosis (p = 0.3, OR: 1, 95% CI 1-1 and p = 0.1, OR: 1, 95% CI 1-1, respectively), which was guarded (30.5% return to previous level of exercise). MAIN LIMITATIONS: Performance data for conservatively treated horses with MRI-detected synovial masses was not considered, nor was the effect of navicular bursal effusion. Horses were not randomly assigned to treatment protocols. CONCLUSION: There is good correlation between MRI and bursoscopic findings of DDFT lesions and synovial masses within the navicular bursa, with no false positives. Size of the synovial masses and DDFT lesions does not influence prognosis following navicular bursoscopy.

[Nasal obstruction: Odontogenic cysts in 4 brachycephalic dogs]. / Nasale Obstruktion: Odontogene Zysten bei 4 brachyzephalen Hunden.

OBJECTIVE: Odontogenic cysts may be of developmental or inflammatory origin. They are frequently observed in brachycephalic dogs. Due to their expansive growth, cysts in the maxilla may extend into the nasal cavity, obstruct the nasal airway and cause nasal discharge. Epithelial cysts may lead to a comparable clinical picture. A new endonasal endoscopic intervention for the removal of these cysts is described. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Four brachycephalic dogs (Boxer, Chihuahua, French bulldog, Pug) with unilateral cysts obstructing the nasal cavity were included in the study. The animals underwent clinical examination, computed tomography (CT) imaging and rhinoscopy examination. Histopathologic evaluation of the cyst wall was performed. In addition to dental surgery and conventional extraction of the involved tooth, the cyst wall was removed by endoscopic intervention via the physiologic nasal opening. Clinical course following treatment was assessed by rhinoscopy and CT. RESULTS: The main clinical signs were unilateral or bilateral serous to hemorrhagic nasal discharge. Nasal airflow was restricted in all patients. Removal of the cysts and involved teeth did not lead to any intra- and postoperative complications. No recurrence of the cysts was observed. Histologic diagnosis consisted of an epidermoid cyst, a follicular cyst, a radicular cyst, and a canine odontogenic parakeratinized cyst (COPC). Neoplastic transformation was excluded in all cases. CONCLUSIONS: Removal of the cyst wall may be performed by means of minimally invasive endoscopic intervention via the physiologic nasal entrance. The procedure is curative and carries the risk of only few complications. In cases in which treatment is restricted to extraction of the affected tooth, the nasal airway may remain obstructed due to a calcified cyst wall. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In brachycephalic dogs, oronasal defects due to dental pathology are the most common reason for chronic nasal discharge, whereas in normocephalic dogs nasal neoplasia are. Odontogenic cysts carry importance as differential diagnosis of nasal discharge.

Evaluation of endoscopic-assisted feline lateral bulla osteotomy: a cadaveric study.

OBJECTIVES: The aims of the study were to investigate if feline middle ear anatomy can be visualized using endoscopy via a lateral bulla approach and to determine if scope-assistance increases rates of successful entry into the hypotympanum during feline total ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy (TECA-LBO). METHODS: A total of 13 feline cadaver heads underwent CT to confirm the absence of pre-existing middle ear disease. For each head, an electronic coin toss was used to determine which ear would undergo endoscope-assisted TECA-LBO; a traditional TECA-LBO without the use of the scope was performed on the contralateral side. In endoscope-assisted procedures, a 1.9 mm scope was intermittently inserted into the tympanic bulla via a lateral bulla approach and used to identify middle ear structures, visualize the bony septum and confirm entry into the hypotympanum. After the bilateral TECA-LBO, the cadaver heads were imaged again and assessed for evidence of entry through the septum. RESULTS: Soft tissue and osseus structures of the middle ear were readily visualized with a 1.9 mm scope. Success rates for entry into the hypotympanum were high between both endoscope-assisted and traditional procedures, with entry confirmed for 12/13 ears in each group. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Endoscope assistance can facilitate the identification and examination of middle ear structures but does not appear to increase the success rate of entry into the hypotympanum during feline TECA-LBO, as entry through the bony septum was consistently accomplished even without scope-assisted visualization. Alternative benefits to scope assistance may exist, and future studies to elucidate its impact on rates of intraoperative trauma to middle ear structures are indicated.

Upper airway endoscopy in exercising horses: Findings in 164 barrel racing horses with respiratory clinical signs and/or poor performance.

Barrel racing involves sprinting through a cloverleaf pattern in under 20 s. The prevalence of upper airway obstructions (UAO) in barrel racers is unknown, thus a retrospective analysis of 164 client-owned horses referred for overground endoscopy (OGE) between 2014 and 2022 was performed. Referring complaints included respiratory noise, cough, epistaxis, behaviour (owner reported stress/anxiety, refusal to enter arena, excessive head shaking), and/or poor performance. Horses performed a standardized exercise test with low and high-speed components. Videoendoscopic recordings were systematically scored by one experienced clinician. Exercising abnormalities included palatal instability (PI), intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate (iDDSP), nasopharyngeal collapse (NPC), recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN), ventro-medial luxation of the apex of the corniculate process of the arytenoid (VLAC), medial deviation of the aryepiglottic fold (MDAF), vocal fold collapse (VFC), and cricotracheal ligament collapse. Associations between co-existing UAOs, age and sex were examined (McNemar's test; logistic regression; P < 0.05). During exercise, 24/164 (15%) horses had no UAO. In the remaining 140 horses, 56% had two or more. NPC was observed in 68/140 (49%), PI in 59/140 (42%), iDDSP in 55/140 (39%), VFC in 38/140 (27%), RLN in 27/140 (19%), VLAC in 14/140 (10%), MDAF in 8/140 (6%) and cricotracheal ligament collapse in 8/140 (6%). Nasopharyngeal collapse and RLN were primarily Grade 3 and Grade B, respectively. Associations exist between several co-existing UAOs, but not age or sex. Abnormalities were more frequent at low-speed (55%) than high-speed (22%), highlighting the importance of OGEs at different exercise intensities. Multiple UAOs appear common in barrel racers with clinical presentations.

New method of video-assisted vaginoscopy in Nellore heifers.

Vaginoscopy allows an intravaginal endoscopic evaluation and can help in the diagnosis of female bovine genital tract disorders. The aim of this study is to validate a new method of gynaecological examination using a Scope VOR&GDI videovaginoscope. Twenty-six heifers were used, divided into 2 groups with 13 animals, control group (GC) and videovaginoscopic group (GV). In the CG, vaginoscopy was performed with a vaginal speculum and in the GV with a Scope VOR&GDI videovaginoscope. All heifers underwent vaginoscopy on day 0 (D0), and 9 days later, on day 9 (D9). Vaginoscopy provided adequate intravaginal inspection. In the CG, 23% (3/13) of the heifers showed discomfort during the test. In GV, vaginal inspection was better due to better image quality. The videovaginoscope is the most effective equipment for carrying out the vaginoscopy procedure in Nellore heifers, as it produces sharper and clearer images and can help in the diagnostic and therapeutic routine of veterinarians.

Endoscopic administration of Coca-Cola for medical management of a wedged intestinal trichobezoar in a cat.

A 16-year-old, neutered male domestic longhair feline with gastroduodenal and jejunal trichobezoars was treated with administration of Coca-Cola through endoscopic injection catheter. Examination with a Karl Storz endoscope identified a trichobezoar causing suspected partial or early complete obstruction of the jejunum; however, the length of the scope was inadequate to retrieve the trichobezoar. Consequently, 55 mL of Coca-Cola and 5 mL of iohexol were instilled into an injection catheter to disrupt the trichobezoar. No peri- or postoperative complications were reported, and the cat recovered uneventfully. Key clinical message: This case report demonstrates a minimally invasive approach to treatment of a small intestinal trichobezoar in a cat with no intra- or postoperative complications. Coca-Cola infusion through an endoscopic injection catheter may be a viable treatment in cats when a surgical approach is not an option, although further cases are needed to determine whether these results can be generalized to the larger patient population.

Administration endoscopique de Coca-Cola pour la prise en charge médicale d'un trichobézoard intestinal coincé chez un chat. Un félin domestique à poil long mâle castré de 16 ans atteint de trichobézoards gastroduodénaux et jéjunaux a été traité par l'administration de Coca-Cola via un cathéter d'injection endoscopique. L'examen avec un endoscope Karl Storz a identifié un trichobézoard suspecté d'obstruction partielle ou complète précoce du jéjunum; cependant, la longueur de l'endoscope était insuffisante pour récupérer le trichobézoard. Par conséquent, 55 ml de Coca-Cola et 5 ml d'iohexol ont été instillés dans un cathéter d'injection pour défaire le trichobézoard. Aucune complication péri- ou postopératoire n'a été signalée et le chat s'est rétabli sans incident.Message clinique clé :Ce rapport de cas démontre une approche peu invasive du traitement d'un trichobézoard de l'intestin grêle chez un chat sans complications per- ou postopératoires. L'infusion de Coca-Cola via un cathéter d'injection endoscopique peut être un traitement viable chez les chats lorsqu'une approche chirurgicale n'est pas une option, bien que d'autres cas soient nécessaires pour déterminer si ces résultats peuvent être généralisés à une population de patients plus large.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Rigid normograde rhinoscopy-assisted traction-avulsion removal of small middle ear polyps from the auditory tube in five cats.

CASE SERIES SUMMARY: This study aims to describe a novel minimally invasive technique for the removal of small middle ear polyps from the auditory tube openings in cats. Five cats with clinical signs of otitis externa and/or otitis media, and/or upper respiratory tract inflammation were included. All cats underwent pharyngolaryngoscopy under anaesthesia, CT scan of the head, neck and thoracic cavity, video-otoscopic examination, retrograde nasopharyngoscopy and normograde rhinoscopy. The five cats described in this study were all found to have significant respiratory tract inflammation (rhinitis, sinusitis, nasopharyngitis, otitis media) with small polypous protrusions from the auditory tube openings. A normograde rhinoscopy-assisted traction-avulsion (RATA) removal of these small polyps was performed in all cases without complications. The rostral nasopharynx was visualised by a unilaterally normograde advanced rigid endoscope passing the choana, and polyps were removed using a grasping forceps introduced in the contralateral nostril. Telephone follow-up revealed clear improvement in all cases. One of the cases was re-evaluated with a CT scan and endoscopy 4 weeks after treatment. The CT scan showed a significant improvement with no abnormalities in both external ear canals and air opacity in both tympanic bullae. Video-endoscopic examination revealed intact tympanic membranes with mild chronic abnormalities and patent auditory tube openings upon normograde rhinoscopy. RELEVANCE AND NOVEL INFORMATION: Rigid normograde RATA is a novel, minimally invasive and effective technique for the removal of small middle ear polyps from auditory tube openings in cats with otitis media.