Evaluation of Intervertebral Disc Space Width Between 10th and 11th Thoracic Vertebrae in Cats Using Radiography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

BACKGROUND: It is well known that the T10-T11 intervertebral disc space is usually narrower than the adjacent intervertebral disc spaces in most dogs. However, whether the T10-T11 disc space is narrower than the adjacent disc spaces is not well-established in cats. OBJECTIVES: To measure the intervertebral disc space width of the T10-T11 disc space and to compare it with that of the adjacent disc spaces using radiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). METHODS: In Groups 1 (101 clinically normal cats) and 2 (32 cats without spinal diseases from T8 to T13), dorsal width (DW), central width (CW) and ventral width (VW) of the T8-T13 disc spaces were measured by radiography or MRI. Significant differences of the DW, CW and VW among disc spaces measured by radiography and MRI were evaluated. Intra- and interobserver reliabilities were measured by intraclass correlation coefficient. RESULTS: In Groups 1 and 2 using radiography, the DW and CW of the T10-T11 disc space were significantly narrower than those of adjacent disc spaces (p < 0.05). The DW of the T8-T12 disc spaces was significantly narrower than that of the T12-T13 disc space in Group 1 using radiography. In Groups 1 and 2 using radiography, the CW and VW of the T8-T11 disc spaces were significantly narrower than those of the T11-T13 disc spaces. In Group 2 using MRI, the DW of the T10-T11 disc space was significantly narrower than that of the T11-T13 disc spaces. The VW of the T8-T11 disc spaces was significantly narrower than that of the T11-T13 disc spaces. CONCLUSION: The T10-T11 intervertebral disc space on radiography is statistically narrower than the adjacent intervertebral disc spaces in normal cats. The cranial thoracic intervertebral disc spaces (T8-T11) are usually narrower than the caudal thoracic intervertebral disc spaces (T11-T13) on radiography and MRI.

Clinical respiratory and radiographic abnormalities in dogs with spontaneous hypercortisolism.

The objective of this study was to characterize respiratory clinical signs, other than panting and respiratory distress, as well as thoracic radiographic abnormalities, in dogs with hypercortisolism. Although there have been case reports and studies evaluating the results of pulmonary scintigraphy, no studies have yet reviewed respiratory clinical signs and radiograph results in dogs with hypercortisolism. This study addresses this gap. A case series was evaluated and the dogs' clinical histories were obtained, including clinical signs and physical examination. Digital thoracic radiographs were analyzed to consider such parameters as the diameter of the main bronchi, lung patterns, and the size of the pulmonary trunk. The most common respiratory symptoms were snoring (61.9%), coughing (57.1%), and fatigue (52.4%). Physical examination revealed a high frequency of changes on lung auscultation (95.2%). The body condition score (BCS) was high in 95% of dogs and a significant correlation was observed between the presence of cyanosis and changes in lung auscultation, both of which present similar risk factors. Furthermore, body weight showed a moderate correlation with respiratory rate (RR = 0.571). Radiographic changes were evident in 47.5% of dogs, with the bronchial pattern being the most common (70%). Based on these results, it was observed that respiratory and radiographic abnormalities are frequent in dogs with spontaneous hypercortisolism and a high body condition score was relevant for exacerbating clinical respiratory signs, such as cyanosis and tachypnea.

L'objectif de cette étude était de caractériser les signes cliniques respiratoires, autres que le halètement et la détresse respiratoire, ainsi que les anomalies radiographiques thoraciques, chez les chiens atteints d'hypercortisolisme. Bien qu'il existe des rapports de cas et des études évaluant les résultats de la scintigraphie pulmonaire, aucune étude n'a encore examiné les signes cliniques respiratoires et les résultats radiographiques chez les chiens atteints d'hypercortisolisme. Cette étude comble cette lacune. Une série de cas a été évaluée et les antécédents cliniques des chiens ont été obtenus, incluant les signes cliniques et l'examen physique. Des radiographies thoraciques numériques ont été analysées pour prendre en compte des paramètres tels que le diamètre des bronches principales, les schémas pulmonaires et la taille du tronc pulmonaire. Les symptômes respiratoires les plus courants étaient le ronflement (61,9 %), la toux (57,1 %) et la fatigue (52,4 %). L'examen physique a révélé une fréquence élevée de changements à l'auscultation pulmonaire (95,2 %). Le score d'état corporel (BCS) était élevé chez 95 % des chiens et une corrélation significative a été observée entre la présence de cyanose et les modifications de l'auscultation pulmonaire, qui présentent toutes deux des facteurs de risque similaires. De plus, le poids corporel a montré une corrélation modérée avec la fréquence respiratoire (RR = 0,571). Des changements radiographiques étaient évidents chez 47,5 % des chiens, le schéma bronchique étant le plus courant (70 %). Sur la base de ces résultats, il a été observé que les anomalies respiratoires et radiographiques sont fréquentes chez les chiens atteints d'hypercortisolisme spontané, et qu'un score d'état corporel élevé était pertinent pour l'exacerbation des signes respiratoires cliniques, tels que la cyanose et la tachypnée.(Traduit par Docteur Serge Messier).

Radiographic Measurements of the Hip Joint in Capuchin Monkeys (Sapajus spp.).

BACKGROUND: Radiographs are useful for the initial evaluation of the hip joints. The information can be utilized for the betterment of animal health or other goals such as anatomic studies and gait analysis, among others. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate radiographic measurements of the hip joint in capuchin monkeys, kept under human care at a reference center for wildlife. METHODS: Twelve capuchin monkeys (Sapajus spp.) (three adult males, seven adult females, and two sub-adult females) were evaluated. Ventrodorsal radiographic views were taken under chemical restraint. All measurements on the digital images were performed in triplicate by one examiner. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: None of the measurements evaluated were statistically different between males and females. No statistical differences were found between hind limbs. The mean (±SD) Norberg angle was 104.92° (±2.82°) and the Wiberg angle was 15.26° (±1.86°). The percentage of the femoral head covered by the acetabulum was 68.57% (±3.65%) and the acetabular index depth to width ratio was 54.66% (±3.85%). In conclusion, the radiographic measurements showed certain morphological features of the hip joint in Sapajus spp. that contribute to improving species knowledge.

Research Note: A deep learning method segments chicken keel bones from whole-body X-ray images.

Most commercial laying hens suffer from sternum (keel) bone damage including deviations and fractures. X-raying hens, followed by segmenting and assessing the keel bone, is a key to automating the monitoring of keel bone condition. The aim of the current work is to train a deep learning model to segment the keel bone out of whole-body x-ray images. We obtained full-body x-ray images of laying hens (n = 1,051) and manually drew the outline of the keel bone on each image. Using the annotated images, a U-net model was then trained to segment the keel bone. The proposed model was evaluated using 5-fold cross validation. We obtained high segmentation accuracy (Dice coefficients of 0.88-0.90) repeatably over several validation folds. In conclusion, automatic segmentation of the keel bone from full-body x-ray images is possible with good accuracy. Segmentation is a requirement for automated measurements of keel geometry and density, which can subsequently be connected to susceptibility to keel deviations and fractures.

Methodological approaches to assessing the genetic predisposition of osteochondrosis of the tarsocrural joint in the Pura Raza Española horses.

Osteochondrosis (OC) is a developmental orthopaedic disease of significant concern in numerous sport horse breeds, with significant international relevance. Using digital radiographs, we assessed the occurrence of hock (tarsocrural joint) OC in 3 048 Pura Raza Española (PRE) horses which took part in a morpho-functional test, in three specific locations in the tarsus limbs: the Distal Intermediate Ridge of the Tibia (DIRT), the lateral trochlear ridges of the talus (LTT), and the medial trochlear ridges of the talus (MTT). An incidence rate of 13.3% was found for hock OC in the analysed sample, with the highest incidence rate observed in DIRT (10.0%) and the lowest in MTT (0.2%). Estimates of genetic predisposition to hock OC were carried out using three genetic approaches: 1a) a binomial threshold model based on the presence or absence of OC, 1b) a multinomial threshold model, on a scale from 0 (absence) to 3 (maximum), and 2) a linear model. The effects considered in the models included sex, genetic origin and stud class. All the analyses were based on the Bayesian inference methodology, using the THRGIBBS3F90 software. The binomial threshold model yielded the most suitable results, with an estimated heritability for Overall hock OC of 0.71 ± 0.055 on the underlying scale (0.53 on the observed scale), ranging in different locations from 0.48 ± 0.087 (LTT) to 0.66 ± 0.063 (DIRT) on the underlying scale (0.10 and 0.38 on the observed scale, respectively). The highest significative genetic correlation was observed between Overall and DIRT (0.97) for approach 1a, and the lowest significant genetic correlation was between Overall and LTT (0.49), for approach 2. This study contributes valuable insights into the genetic predisposition towards, as well as for the potential for selective breeding against, hock OC in PRE horses, and provides a basis for future research and breeding programmes aimed at minimising the occurrence of hock OC and promoting the overall health of this breed.

Cystine and urate cystoliths in dogs are frequently visible on radiographs prior to surgical or nonsurgical removal.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the frequency at which cystine and urate cystoliths (stones) are visible on radiographs prior to surgical or nonsurgical retrieval. METHODS: Records of client-owned dogs (n = 331) were analyzed between January 2019 and December 2023 for cystoliths submitted for stone analysis after surgical removal or nonsurgical retrieval. Records were analyzed for cystolith type; when cystine or urate stones were identified, records were analyzed for signalment, procedure, presence of mineral opaque cystoliths on pre-procedural radiographs, urine pH and crystalluria, history of previous cystoliths, prior prescription diet attempt, recurrence, and genetic, congenital and acquired comorbidities. Descriptive statistics were generated after data collection. RESULTS: 31 of 331 (9%) were cystine stones, 49 of 331 (15%) were urate, and 1 of 331 (0.3%) was a mix of urate and cystine. When radiographs were taken prior to stone removal, 24 of 28 (85%) of urate, 24 of 26 (92%) of cystine, and 1 of 1 (100%) of urate/cystine were visible on radiographs. CONCLUSIONS: Cystine and urate stones are visible on survey radiography at a high frequency in dogs. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: While cystine and urate stones have been historically designated as radiolucent, they are frequently radiopaque on radiographs. Radiopacity is commonly used as one of the criterion to determine whether a dissolution or prevention diet is an appropriate management technique, particularly when determination of the stone type has yet to be performed. As a result, these findings may prompt clinicians to investigate other patient-specific factors before a specific dietary recommendation is made.

Radiographic evaluation of the forelimb bone development in maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus).

This study aimed to assess the fusion of growth plates and the development of secondary ossification centres in the forelimb bones of maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus), contrasting the findings with established data from domestic dogs. Three maned wolves, comprising one male and two females, initially aged between 3 and 4 months, were subjected to monthly radiographic evaluations until 10-11 months of age, followed by bimonthly assessments until 18-19 months of age, encompassing both forelimbs. The closure times of growth plates were observed as follows: supraglenoid tubercle (7-8 months), proximal humerus (17-19 months), distal humerus (8-9 months), medial epicondyle of the humerus (8-9 months), proximal ulna (9-10 months), proximal radius (13-15 months), distal ulna (13-15 months) and distal radius (17-19 months). Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in the areas of secondary ossification centres in the proximal epiphyses of the humerus and radius, respectively, observed from the initial evaluation at 8-9 months and 6-7 months. Conversely, the epiphyses of the supraglenoid tubercle, distal humerus, proximal ulna, distal ulna, medial epicondyle of the humerus and distal radius did not exhibit significant area differences between 3-4 months and 4-5 months, yet notable distinctions emerged at 5-6 months. In summary, while the radiographic appearance of epiphyseal growth plates and secondary ossification centres in maned wolves resembles that of domestic dogs, closure times vary. These findings contribute to understanding the dynamics of epiphyseal growth plates in this species.

Distal forelimb radiographic bone morphology in Thoroughbred foals during the first 10 months post-partum. Part 1: Carpus.

BACKGROUND: The risk of carpal injury in racehorses may be related to the morphology, yet whether carpal morphologies are set from birth or change through growth remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: To quantify carpal bone changes through growth. METHOD: Twenty privately owned Thoroughbred foals born between January 2022 and May 2023 were radiographed bimonthly from birth to 10 months of age. Imprint training was used to take radiographs safely without chemical restraints. Fifteen individual and 11 relative angular carpal parameters were measured using ImageJ on dorsopalmar radiographs of the carpus at zero degrees of vertical and horizontal rotation. Associations with age (growth), sex and the differences between left and right limbs were analysed separately using a linear mixed effects model. RESULTS: Six individual carpal parameters changed with age (radial carpal joint [RCJ], Prx.dor. radial carpal [Cr], Prx.Cu, Dis.dor. third carpal [C3], Dis.pal.C3 and Dis.pal. intermediate carpal), and one was influenced by side, that is higher in the left carpus (Dis.pal.Cr). Seven relative parameters changed with age, and one relative parameter was influenced by side, that is higher in the left (Ra.met-RCJ). The proximo-dorsal bone surface angle of Cr and disto-dorsal bone surface angle of C3 became flatter over time, which may be associated with the re-direction of the load towards the sagittal carpal plane. Sex did not influence any of the carpal parameters, nor did the combined effect of age, side of the limb and sex. CONCLUSION: Specific individual and relative angular carpal parameters changed significantly over time and some differed between the left and right limb, whereas other parameters did not change. The steeper carpal bone angles achieved proximally with the parameters that did change may improve stability by redirecting the load more medially through the carpus and the proximal and distal bones.

Radiomorphometric analysis of the metapodial bones in the Scottish fold cats.

Scottish Fold cats (Felis catus, Linnaeus 1758) are one of the most well-known and popular cat breeds in the world, characterized by their folded ears attached to the head. Very frequently, cats fall prey of different trauma and accidents that can cause bone fractures especially in the metapodial bones. The method of radiometry is used in veterinary practice to visualize and measure different parts of the animal skeleton. The aim of this study was to assess the linear parameters derived from radiographic images of the metacarpals and metatarsals in Scottish Fold cats and additionally detecting potential sexual dimorphism. Radiographic images of 24 adult Scottish Fold cats (12 male and 12 females) of different ages and weights were analysed. Six linear measurements of the metapodial bones were evaluated to investigate any differences between the sexes. The linear radiometric measurements of the five metacarpals (MC1-5) and the four metatarsals (MT2-5) bones were larger in male metapodial bones than that of female cats. The maximum length (Ml) of the MC1 and MC2 was statistically different between sex, respectively, (p = 0.001) and (p = 0.05). The others metacarpal bones were different in mostly all linear parameters but not statistically significant. The most significant differences between sexes were observed in the parameter of width proximal end (Wp) of MC1-3 (p = 0.001) and MC4 (p = 0.05). More statistical different was MT2 and less MT3. The linear parameter of Bd of the MT4 was the most different statistically between sex (p = 0.001). The results of the study will be useful in function of comparative anatomy, in veterinary clinical practice, in zoo archaeology and in the veterinary forensic investigation.

A new method for regionalization of the vertebral column in salmonids based on radiographic hallmarks.

Current procedures to establish vertebral column regionalization (e.g., histology) in fish are time consuming and difficult to apply. The aim of this study was to develop a more rapid and accurate radiology-based method for Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). A detailed analysis of 90 animals (4 kg) led to the establishment of region-specific radiographic hallmarks. To elucidate its transferability to other salmonid species, radiography was carried out in brown trout (Salmo trutta), Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus), rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha), and Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). This method was also evaluated for whole ungutted fish. The vertebral column of Atlantic salmon can be subdivided into five regions (R1-R5) based on anatomy: postcranial (R1, V1, and V2), abdominal (R2, V3-V26), transitional (R3, V27-V36), caudal (R4, V37-V53), and ural (R5, V54-V59). The following specific radiographic hallmarks allow the identification of regions: (i) lack of ribs in R1, (ii) modified parapophysis of the first vertebra of R3, (iii) prominent hemal spine of the first vertebra of R4, and (iv) the separated hemal spine of the most cranial pre-ural vertebra of R5. These hallmarks were all transferable to the other salmonid species assessed. The results include a further description of various region-specific characteristics in Atlantic salmon. The method was found applicable for sedated/whole ungutted fish, verifying it as quick and easy compared to other regionalization methods. The regions defined by radiology in this study agree with the vertebral column regions recently defined for Chinook salmon (O. tshawytscha). Thus, and considering the results of this study on various salmonid species, the currently developed regionalization protocol can be generally used for salmonids.

Radiographic characterization of the maxillary septum and septal bullae in horses: An ex vivo study.

The anatomical variations of the maxillary septum and the septal bullae can generate challenges during the interpretation of radiographs of the horses' heads and make it difficult to accurately identify the sites affected in sinus disorders. The description of the radiographic appearance of these structures is currently scarce in the scientific literature. This work aims to describe the anatomical and radiographic characteristics of the maxillary septum and maxillary septal bullae in horses. Six chemically preserved equine cadaver heads were used which, after being submitted to the maxillary osseous flap, the maxillary septum and its respective bullae were identified. Radiographic examinations before and after contrast impregnation on these structures were performed. The positioning of the maxillary septum varied between the anatomical specimens and between the sides of the same specimen. The 30° oblique dorsoventral lateral and lateral projections allowed the identification of the maxillary septum and septal bullae. However, the bullae remained superimposed on the dental arches in the dorsoventral projections with the mandible in a neutral position or with the mandible displaced. The oblique offset radiographic positioning was suggested and proved effective for the examination of the maxillary septal bullae, where the mandible was displaced to the side of the bullae to be examined, and the radiographic beam inclined in the same direction. The maxillary septum and its bullae could be properly identified in a macroscopic way after the osseous flap and the contrasted radiographic examination allowed its adequate interpretation. Variations in size and position are considered normal for the equine species.

A retrospective study of Monteggia fractures in 8 dogs and 1 cat.

Monteggia fractures (MFs) are proximal ulnar fractures with concurrent dislocation of the radial head. This retrospective study aims to report the clinical findings and discuss the treatments and outcomes in MFs cases of 9 cases. Previous medical records of the animals were reviewed for history, clinical features, radiographic findings and choice of treatment. Treatment follow-up was evaluated over the telephone by discussion with the owners. Six animals included in the study were presented 2 days after the initial trauma. Five dogs were presented after common road traffic accidents and two after unknown traumas. All dogs had type I MFs, while the cat had a type III MF. Radiographical findings showed that six animals had extra-articular ulnar fractures, while three animals had intra-articular ulnar fractures. All animals were treated with open reduction of the ulna and internal fixation surgical methods. Six ulnar fractures were stabilized with intramedullary pin(s) with cerclage wire. The clinical outcome was assessed by the owners as full function in 3 dogs, acceptable function in 2 dogs and unacceptable function in 2 dogs with intraarticular ulnar fractures. The cat case was rated as full function. One dog died from a pulmonary fat embolism. The findings presented here provide some support that cerclage wire placement could be a satisfactory method for annular ligament reconstruction as a simple and economical treatment option. Also, to the authors' knowledge, this is the third report of MFs with intraarticular ulnar fractures. In this series, comminuted, intraarticular fractures were related to major postoperative complications.

Shape analysis of the carpal joint in healthy and septic arthritis in newborn calves.

Septic arthritis is common in newborn calves due to poor birth and housing hygiene. This study investigated the pathological deformities caused by arthritis in the carpal bones of calves using geometric morphometry. The changes in the carpal joint bones of newborn calves with septic arthritis were examined through shape analysis. The study included 20 healthy Simmental calves and 30 Simmental calves with septic arthritis. Dorso-palmar x-ray images of the carpal joint were taken, and geometric morphometry was performed on these images using 25 landmarks. The first principal components (PC1) represented 26.92% of the total variation, while PC2 represented 13.84%. One of the most significant shape changes with increasing PC1 occurred in the os carpi intermedium. The study found that it was statistically possible to discriminate between radiometric carpal joint images of Simmental calves in the control and arthritis groups using geometric morphometry. In newborn calves with septic arthritis, the trochlea radi was located more proximally. There was an enlargement of the os carpi intermedium and a tendency towards the os carpi ulnare in female calves with septic arthritis. These results indicate significant bone deformation due to septic arthritis. Geometric morphometric methods can be clinically useful, as demonstrated in this study. Researchers can statistically explore these shape analyses, opening new avenues for research in this field. This method not only enhances our understanding of morphological changes but also provides a framework for clinical investigations and discoveries in related areas.

Linear measurements and shape analysis in the calcaneus of selected dog breeds.

The vast array of dog breeds showcases a remarkable diversity that extends to osteological differences. Exploring these morphological distinctions and establishing reference data for various dog breeds are essential steps in comprehending the evolutionary changes that dogs have undergone. In this study, we conducted linear measurements of the calcaneus and performed shape analyses on selected dog breeds to elucidate distinctive characteristics among them. X-ray images of the calcaneus from six different dog breeds-Maltese Terrier, Toy Poodle, Pomeranian, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, French Bulldog and Golden Retriever-were utilized for this investigation. Radiological images were obtained from a medio-lateral exposure, positioned 30 cm away from the x-ray device. From these images, four linear length measurements and two angle values were extracted. Additionally, a 2D geometric morphometric analysis was conducted using 32 semi landmarks placed on the radiological images. Linear measurements were assessed using ANOVA, while principal component analysis was employed to examine shape variations across all individuals. Shape differences between species were further elucidated through canonical variates analysis. The results revealed that the Golden Retriever exhibited the highest values for linear measurements, while the Pomeranian showed the lowest. Maltese Terriers displayed the highest dorsal calcaneal angle value. Notably, there were significant differences in calcaneal body length among all breeds, except for the Toy Poodle and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Moreover, Maltese Terriers exhibited statistically distinct angular measurements compared to other breeds. Principal component analysis unveiled that the first principal component explained 32.69% of the total variation, with the cranial edge of the calcaneal body being closer to the body in individuals with higher values. Shape variations also indicated that Golden Retrievers displayed a broader range of shapes compared to French Bulldogs, which exhibited a more conservative distribution. While there was no clear breed-specific distinction according to the first principal component, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels generally showed lower values. In canonical variates analysis, distinctions in calcaneal shape between species were apparent, with Golden Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and French Bulldogs displaying positive values for the first canonical variates. The highest Procrustes distance was observed between Maltese Terriers and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Notably, allometry was found to be statistically insignificant. This comprehensive study utilized both linear and geometric morphometric analyses based on x-ray images, yielding promising results. The integration of imaging systems in veterinary anatomy research presents numerous opportunities for studying animal welfare and health, utilizing various materials such as bones and cadavers. These advancements hold the potential for further enhancing our understanding of animal morphology and well-being.

The radiographic appearance of the canine femoral nutrient foramen for dogs undergoing total hip replacement is consistent, with some variations.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to document the radiographic appearance of the femoral nutrient foramina and the variation of this in dogs undergoing total hip replacement (THR). Our hypothesis was that the radiographic appearance of the foramen would be consistent with the previously described anatomy, with some variations. ANIMALS: 89 client-owned dogs. METHODS: Preoperative radiographs were retrospectively analyzed for dogs undergoing THR at a single referral center. The signalment of all dogs was recorded. Radiographs were retrospectively examined to describe the number, direction, appearance, and foraminal index of the femoral nutrient foramen. RESULTS: Radiographs of 89 dogs and 102 femurs were examined. In 73 cases, a single foramen was seen; in 19 cases, no foramen was visible; and in 10 cases, 2 foramina were visible. The median foraminal index was 33.1% (range, 26% to 55.3%). On the mediolateral view, 72 were of proximocaudal-to-distocranial orientation, 19 were proximocranial to distocaudal, and 1 was atypical. On the craniocaudal or ventrodorsal views, the foramen was seen as a focal round radiolucency in 65 cases, was curved or atypical in 13 cases, and was not visible in 14. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Radiolucent lines across the cortices that do not fit these criteria should raise suspicion of a femoral fissure, particularly within the context of THR.

Radiographic analysis in Thoroughbreds reveals morphological changes in healthy maturing stifle joints and possible association between subchondral lesions and femoral condyle width.

OBJECTIVE: Assess femorotibial features in foals with and without medial femoral condyle (MFC) subchondral radiolucencies (SR+ and SR-). METHODS: 3 independent, sequential radiographic studies were performed. Study 1 retrospectively measured femorotibial morphological parameters in repository radiographs (SR- and SR+). Study 2 qualitatively compared drawings of intercondylar notch shape in postmortem radiographs (SR-). Study 3 prospectively measured femorotibial parameters in 1-month-old foals (SR-). In studies 1 and 3, 13 morphologic parameters were measured. Limb directional asymmetry was assessed in 2 age groups (< 7 or ≥ 7 months). RESULTS: Study 1 (SR- group; n = 183 radiographs) showed increased femoral measurements with maturation, except the distal femoral intercondylar notch width (FINwal), which decreased. In contrast, in SR+ stifles (53 radiographs), 3 femoral parameters (MFC width [MFCwpf], MFC height, or FINwal) showed no changes. Tibial plateau width alone increased with maturation in both groups. Interobserver reliability was good to excellent. Study 2 (n = 53 radiographs) confirmed a distal FINw decrease in SR- foals. In study 1, left SR- stifles in greater than or equal to 7-month-old fillies had significantly larger femoral bicondylar width and FINw, while right SR+ stifles in fillies greater than or equal to 7 months had a significantly larger MFCw. In study 3 of 1-month-old foals (n = 94 SR- radiographs), the MFCw, femoral condyle bicondylar width, and lateral femoral condyle height were all greater on the left, whereas the intercondylar intereminence space width was larger on the right. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In SR+ stifles, the distal femur exhibited divergent maturation, indicating a wider MFC in the right stifle in older foals. As SR lesions are more common on the right, this suggests a potential association with MFC morphology.

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.

Prevalence of osteoarthritis in the shoulder, elbow, hip and stifle joints of dogs older than 8 years.

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common diseases in veterinary medicine. There are various causes for joints developing OA, with some of them being well investigated, while others are still a matter of speculation. In this retrospective study we examined the prevalence of OA in the shoulder, elbow, hip and stifle joints in a clinic population of dogs older than 8 years, which were presented mostly due to orthopaedic complaints. Dogs were included in the study if one or more of the aforementioned joints was included in the radiographs. Radiographs were reviewed by three different observers and graded by severity. Prevalence of OA was 39.2%, 57.4%, 35.9% and 36.4% for the shoulder, elbow, hip and stifle, respectively. There was no correlation between higher grades of OA and weight as well as age, but significantly higher prevalence of OA in heavier groups when grouped for weight. Sex and castration status did not affect presence of OA. As most of the examined joints were free of OA, radiographic findings suggestive of OA should not be considered normal in senescent dogs.

Radiological measurements of the feet of normal Straight Egyptian Arabian horses in Qatar.

The Arabian horse has been identified as carrying a risk locus for equine metabolic syndrome, predisposing this breed to development of laminitis. Radigraphy of the equine foot is widely considered the main diagnostic imaging technique for evaluation of the laminitic horse. Knowledge of 'normal' breed values allows assessment of the degree and severity of radiological changes associated with laminitis. The objective of this study was to investigate the normal values for radiological measurements of the feet of the Straight Egyptian Arabian horse in Qatar. The design was a clinical prospective study. Radiographs of the fore and hind feet of 10 clinically normal adult Straight Egyptian Arabian horses were taken. On the lateromedial views, 17 measurements were taken (13 distances and four angles). On the horizontal dorsopalmar/plantar views, two measurements were taken. On the dorsal 45 degree, proximo-palmarodistal oblique projections, four measurements were taken. Normal reference ranges were reported for radiological measurements of the feet of the Straight Egyptian Arabian horse. Several variables showed significant differences between fore and hind feet, including hoof angle, distal wall thickness, and two proximal inner layer measurements (p < 0.05). In addition, the Straight Egyptian Arabian horse was found to have a number of measurements which varied from previously published reports. The results reported within provide a useful reference for normal radiographic measurements of the Straight Egyptian Arabian horse with relevance for laminitis.

New chief scrutineer for the Canine Health Schemes.

Elizabeth 'Lizza' Baines talks through her new role at the Canine Health Schemes (CHS), leading the team of vets who score over 14,500 hip and elbow radiographs each year.