Unilateral uniplanar external skeletal fixation for isolated diaphyseal tibial fractures in skeletally immature dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To report and evaluate use of external skeletal fixation (ESF) for repair of isolated (fibula intact) diaphyseal tibia fractures in skeletally immature dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Case series. ANIMALS: Skeletally immature (mean age, 17 weeks; range, 12-23 weeks) dogs (n=5) with isolated diaphyseal tibial fractures. METHODS: Medical records (2006-2007) of 5 dogs with isolated diaphyseal tibial fractures treated with Type 1a ESF were reviewed and outcome assessed by clinical examination and telephone interviews. RESULTS: Dogs were evaluated approximately 2 and 4 weeks after surgery. Limb function, muscle mass, and comfort level remained very good to excellent throughout healing. Bony union was confirmed radiographically and the ESF removed approximately 4 weeks after surgery (mean, 31.4 days; range, 28-37 days). Owner satisfaction was high when contacted a minimum of 4 weeks after ESF removal. CONCLUSIONS: Use of Type Ia ESF with positive profile threaded pins is a practical and biologic method for treatment of isolated tibial fractures in skeletally immature dogs CLINICAL RELEVANCE: ESF is an effective alternative treatment to external coaptation and internal fixation for isolated diaphyseal tibial fractures in skeletally immature dogs.

Prognosis for acute nontraumatic hemoperitoneum in the dog: a retrospective analysis of 60 cases (2003-2006).

The complete medical records of 60 dogs with hemoabdomen were reviewed. All dogs underwent exploratory laparotomy and had a diagnosis established by a veterinary pathologist. Final diagnoses were hemangiosarcoma in 38 (63.3%) dogs, splenic hematoma in 16 (26.6%) dogs, splenic torsion in three (5%) dogs, hepatocellular carcinoma in two (3.3%) dogs, and carcinomatosis in one (1.6%) dog. Twenty-four (63.1%) dogs with hemangiosarcoma, 14 (87.5%) dogs with splenic hematoma, three (100%) dogs with splenic torsion, and two (100%) dogs with hepatocellular carcinoma were discharged from the hospital. Dogs with hemangiosarcoma were given a poor prognosis, while dogs with splenic hematoma, splenic torsion, and hepatocellular carcinoma were given a fair to good prognosis.

Simultaneous bilateral femoral head and neck ostectomy for the treatment of canine hip dysplasia.

Simultaneous bilateral femoral head and neck ostectomy (FHO) was performed on 15 dogs for severe bilateral hip dysplasia. A follow-up survey was performed 6 to 48 months after surgery to assess the postoperative recovery and activity levels of the operated dogs. All dogs had normal activity levels and were pain free according to their owners. Owner satisfaction regarding the outcome of the surgery was high. Simultaneous bilateral FHO was a viable surgical option for the treatment of painful bilateral hip disease in dogs, especially when other surgical options were not indicated or were cost prohibitive.

Acute onset of dyspnea associated with Oslerus osleri infection in a dog.

OBJECTIVE: To describe an unusual clinical presentation of Oslerus osleri infection in the dog and to review current diagnostic and treatment strategies for this infection. CASE SUMMARY: A 2-year-old Briard presented as an emergency for evaluation of acute respiratory distress. Radiographs of the thorax revealed an intratracheal masses near the bifurcation of the trachea. Biopsies of the masses identified parasitic fragments consistent with O. osleri infection. The patient was successfully treated with fenbendazole and the patient's clinical signs have not reoccurred over the last 5 months. UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED: This report documents an uncommon presentation of acute respiratory distress associated with O. osleri infection in the dog, as previously reported cases usually report a history of chronic cough. In this case, the patient presented with an acute onset of dyspnea and no history of chronic cough suggesting that O. osleri infection may be a consideration in any young dog presented with acute respiratory distress.