Rectal prolapse secondary to a urachal abscess in an alpaca cria.

A five-month-old alpaca cria presented with a history of abdominal pain, dysuria, and a recurring rectal prolapse. An ultrasonographic examination indicated a urachal abscess attached to the urinary bladder. The abscess was removed surgically, and the patient had an adequate recovery after the procedure and ancillary treatment. This case report highlights secondary complications that could arise following an infection of the urachus in new-world camelids. Key clinical message: Urachal abscess should be considered as a differential diagnosis in juvenile new-world camelids with rectal prolapse, tenesmus, or dysuria.

Prolapsus rectal secondaire à un abcès de l'ouraque chez un cria d'alpaga. Un cria d'alpaga âgé de cinq mois est présenté avec des antécédents de douleurs abdominales, de dysurie et de prolapsus rectal récurrent. Un examen échographique a révélé un abcès de l'ouraque attaché à la vessie. L'abcès a été enlevé chirurgicalement, et le patient a eu une récupération adéquate après la procédure et le traitement auxiliaire. Ce rapport de cas met en évidence les complications secondaires qui pourraient survenir à la suite d'une infection de l'ouraque chez les camélidés du nouveau monde.Message clinique clé :L'abcès de l'ouraque doit être considéré comme un diagnostic différentiel chez les camélidés juvéniles du nouveau monde présentant un prolapsus rectal, un ténesme ou une dysurie.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Descriptive study of a method for identification of the pylorus by ultrasound in lactating Holstein cows.

The purpose of this study was to develop a method for identification of the pylorus, in lactating Holstein cows, based on ultrasound examination and the use of external anatomical landmarks such as the mammary vein (anulus venae subcutaneae abdominis). An ultrasound method based on successive identification of 4 internal anatomical landmarks was developed. The procedure was performed 157 times, on clinically healthy lactating Holstein cows, with a portable ultrasound machine equipped with a 3.5 MHz curvilinear probe. The pylorus was identified with a success rate of 98.7% (155 times out of 157 procedures). The average position of the pylorus was noted near the entrance of the right mammary vein, with a craniocaudal and dorsoventral dispersion. This ultrasound method of identifying the pylorus is simple, effective, and rapid.

Étude descriptive d'une méthode échographique d'identification du pylore chez la vache Holstein en lactation. Le but de cette étude était de développer une méthode permettant d'identifier le pylore, basée sur un examen échographique et l'utilisation de repères anatomiques externes telle la veine mammaire (anulus venae subcutaneae abdominis). Une méthode échographique s'appuyant sur l'identification successive de quatre repères anatomiques internes a été développée. La procédure a été réalisée à 157 reprises avec un échographe portable muni d'une sonde sectorielle de 3,5 MHz sur des vaches Holstein saines en lactation. Le pylore a été identifié avec un taux de succès de 98,7 % (155 fois sur 157 procédures). La position moyenne du pylore a été notée à proximité de l'entrée de la veine mammaire droite, avec une dispersion cranio-caudale et dorso-ventrale. Cette méthode échographique d'identification du pylore est simple, efficace et rapide.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Cheek teeth apical infection in cattle: Diagnosis, surgical extraction, and prognosis.

OBJECTIVE: To report the clinical presentation, treatment, and outcome of cattle undergoing surgical extraction of apically infected cheek teeth (CT). STUDY DESIGN: Short case series. ANIMALS: Nine adult cattle. METHODS: Medical records were searched for cattle having a diagnosis of apical infection of CT that were treated with surgical extraction between 2005 and 2017. Data retrieved included clinical examination, ancillary tests, surgical procedure, and outcomes. RESULTS: The main presenting complaints were mandibular swelling and decreased appetite and milk production. In total, 7 mandibular and 3 maxillary CT were extracted, 7 molars and 3 premolars that were distributed more frequently on the left dental arcades (n = 7 CT). Two cattle had no visible external lesions. Radiograph images revealed that lucency surrounded all affected tooth roots. Mandibular teeth were removed by lateral buccotomy with removal of alveolar bone plate or retrograde repulsion, and maxillary teeth were removed by repulsion through a maxillary sinus flap. Most common bacterial isolates consisted of anaerobic bacteria (6/11 isolates) and Truperella pyogenes (3/11 isolates). The most common complications included inability to remove the tooth intact (n = 4 cattle) and surgical site infection (n = 5). All cattle remained in their herd after treatment. CONCLUSION: Surgical extraction of CT was achieved in all 9 cattle. The postoperative morbidity was high but without long-term consequences on animal productivity. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Surgical extraction of CT is a successful treatment for apical infection in cattle.

Arthroscopic approach and intra-articular anatomy of the dorsal and plantar synovial compartments of the bovine tarsocrural joint.

OBJECTIVE: To determine arthroscopic approaches to the dorsal and plantar synovial compartments of the tarsocrural joint in adult cattle, and to describe the arthroscopic intra-articular anatomy from each approach. STUDY DESIGN: Ex vivo study. ANIMALS: Fresh adult bovine cadavers (n = 7). METHODS: Two tarsocrural joint were injected with latex to determine arthroscopic portal locations and arthroscopy of the tarsocrural joint of 12 tarsi was performed. The dorsolateral approach was made through the large pouch located between the long digital extensor and peroneus longus tendons. The dorsomedial approach was made just medial to the common synovial sheath of the tibialis cranialis, peroneus tertius, and long digital extensor tendons. The plantarolateral and plantaromedial approaches were made lateral and medial to the tarsal tendon sheath, respectively. RESULTS: Each approach allowed visualization of the distal tibia articulating with the proximal trochlea of the talus. Consistently observed structures included the distal intermediate ridge of the tibia, and the medial and lateral trochlear ridges and trochlear groove of the talus. Lateral and medial malleoli were best assessed from dorsal approaches. From the lateral approaches evaluation of the abaxial surface of the lateral trochlear ridge allowed visualization of the fibulocalcaneal joint. From the plantar approaches additional observed structures included the coracoid process of the calcaneus, plantar trochlea of the talus, and plantar talotibial and talofibular ligaments. CONCLUSION: In cattle, the dorsolateral and plantarolateral approaches allowed for the best evaluation of the dorsal and plantar aspects of the tarsocrural joint, respectively.

Dorsal Arthroscopic Approach and Intra-Articular Anatomy of the Bovine Antebrachiocarpal and Middle Carpal Joints.

OBJECTIVE: To determine arthroscopic approaches to the dorsal synovial compartments of the antebrachiocarpal and middle carpal joints in adult cattle, and to describe the arthroscopic intra-articular anatomy from each approach. STUDY DESIGN: Ex vivo study. ANIMALS: Six fresh adult bovine cadavers. METHODS: Two carpi were injected with latex and dissected to determine the ideal location for arthroscopic portals. Arthroscopy of the antebrachiocarpal and middle carpal joints of 10 carpi was then performed. The dorsolateral approach was made between the extensor carpi radialis and common digital extensor tendons. The dorsomedial approach was made medial to the extensor carpi radialis tendon, midway between the distal radius and proximal row of carpal bones (antebrachiocarpal joint) and midway between the two rows of carpal bones (middle carpal joint), with the joint in flexion. RESULTS: Arthroscopy of the antebrachiocarpal joint allowed visualization of the distal radius, proximal aspect of the radial, intermediate and ulnar carpal bones, and a palmar ligament located between the radius and the intermediate carpal bone. The approach to the middle carpal joint allowed visualization of the distal aspect of the radial, intermediate, and ulnar carpal bones, the proximal aspect of the fourth and fused second and third carpal bones and an interosseous ligament. The most lateral articular structures (lateral glenoid cavity of the distal radius, ulnar carpal and fourth carpal bones) were difficult to assess. CONCLUSION: Dorsal approaches to the antebrachiocarpal and middle carpal joints allowed visualization of most intra-articular dorsal structures in adult cattle.

Surgical Correction of Traumatic Lateral Patellar Luxation.

OBJECTIVE: To report successful surgical repair of a grade IV lateral patellar luxation in a 437-kg heifer. STUDY DESIGN: Case report. ANIMAL: Seventeen-month-old Holstein heifer (437 kg). METHODS: Diagnosis of traumatic lateral patellar luxation was made based on physical examination, and confirmed on radiographs. Arthroscopic examination of the stifle assessed joint changes. Lateral patellar luxation was surgically repaired using lateral release of the patella and medial imbrication of the joint capsule. RESULTS: The heifer presented nonweight-bearing lameness of the left hind limb (5/5 lameness score). Unilateral grade IV lateral patellar luxation was diagnosed based on physical examination and radiography. Arthroscopic examination of the stifle showed synovitis and cartilage eburnation of the medial articular surface of the patella and of the lateral trochlear ridge of the femur. Lateral release of the patella and medial imbrication of the joint capsule was performed. The heifer remained lame (4.5/5 lameness score) and developed severe disuse muscle atrophy after surgery. By day 112, the heifer was walking easily and was completely weight bearing on the left hindlimb but did have a gait alteration (2/5 lameness score). On day 229, the heifer calved for the first time and lameness was no longer evident. CONCLUSION: This report documents successful surgical treatment of traumatic lateral patellar luxation in a large heifer but additional case evaluation is required to provide an accurate prognosis for this condition and treatment in large cattle.

Outcome Following Partial Unilateral Hysterectomy by Standing Flank Approach in Dairy Cattle.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical findings, surgical treatment, and long-term outcome of dairy cattle undergoing partial hysterectomy with or without unilateral ovariectomy. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Dairy cattle (n = 7). METHODS: Medical records (June 2007-June 2014) of dairy cattle that had partial hysterectomy with or without ipsilateral ovariectomy were reviewed. Follow-up data were obtained by telephone interviews with owners and referring veterinarians between 6 months and 7 years following discharge. RESULTS: Seven dairy cattle met the inclusion criteria. Diagnoses made intra- or postoperatively were ovarian abscess with multiorgan adhesions (4 cows), segmental aplasia of the uterus (2 cows), and uterine lymphosarcoma (1 cow). Partial hysterectomy with or without unilateral ovariectomy was performed without surgical complications by standing flank approach. All cows were successfully discharged from the hospital (short-term prognosis). Five cows became pregnant, and 4 delivered live calves and had a satisfactory productive life without long-term complications. CONCLUSION: Partial hysterectomy by standing flank approach should be considered as a viable treatment option for unilateral ovarian or uterine problems in dairy cattle. Cattle undergoing partial hysterectomy with or without ipsilateral ovariectomy are capable of satisfactory reproduction and milk production after surgery with no short- or long-term complications.

Surgical Management of Omphalophlebitis and Long Term Outcome in Calves: 39 Cases (2008-2013).

OBJECTIVE: To describe and evaluate the surgical management of omphalophlebitis and to report the short and long term outcomes in calves. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Calves (n = 39). METHODS: Medical records (2008-2013) of calves diagnosed with omphalophlebitis and that underwent surgical correction were reviewed. Short term (hospital discharge) and long term (≥6 months after surgery) survival rates were obtained. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the population and a Fisher's exact test was used to evaluate the relationship between clinical signs, surgical management, and outcome. RESULTS: Thirty-nine calves (median age 30 days) were included in the study. Eleven calves had septic arthritis associated with omphalophlebitis and 18 had evidence of liver abscesses on ultrasound. Complete surgical en bloc resection was achieved in 18 calves and umbilical vein marsupialization was performed on the other 21 calves. Thirty-five calves were discharged from the hospital and long term followup was obtained for 30 of them. Twenty-nine animals were performing according to the owner's expectation at least 6 months after surgery (14 for marsupialization and 15 for en bloc resection). A better prognosis was detected when en bloc resection was performed (100% survival); however, when marsupialization was performed, the prognosis was good (74%; P = .05). Septic arthritis had a significant negative effect on overall survival (P < .001). CONCLUSION: The overall survival is good with both surgical options, and even calves with liver involvement and septic arthritis associated can be successfully treated with a combination of long term antibiotics and umbilical vein marsupialization.

IMAGING DIAGNOSIS-TRAUMATIC ABOMASITIS CAUSED BY FOREIGN BODIES IN A COW.

A 2-year-old Holstein cow presented with a history of colic signs of 3 days' duration that had not responded to routine medical therapy. Physical examination findings were consistent with tachycardia and colic. Ultrasonographic examination of the abomasum revealed a thin hyperechoic line producing a cone shadow. Radiography of the cranial abdomen revealed two radiopaque objects within the abomasum. Right paracostal laparotomy and abomasotomy permitted palpation and manual removal of two metallic foreign bodies and a small quantity of gravel. The animal recovered well after surgery and no signs of colic were observed. Her appetite and rumination were also improved.

Long-term mechanical milking status of lacerated teat repaired surgically in cattle: 67 cases (2003-2013).

This study evaluated the long-term prognosis of return to normal mechanical milking after reconstructive teat surgery and determined the factors that have an impact on the outcome. A retrospective study of 67 dairy cows with teat lacerations was performed. Milking status at discharge and at long-term follow-up was adequate for 83% and 75% of the cows, respectively. No statistically significant differences were detected between the long-term prognosis and the age of the cow, the stage of lactation at presentation, or the configuration of the laceration. Lacerations repaired more than 24 hours after the trauma were more frequently associated with a negative outcome (P = 0.05). Mastitis was the most frequent complication (n = 17) and had a statistically significant negative impact on long-term prognosis (P = 0.02). Reconstructive surgery of lacerated teat in dairy cows can help establish return to normal mechanical milking.

Évaluation du pronostic à long terme en regard de la traite mécanique des trayons lacérés réparés chirurgicalement chez la vache : 67 cas (2003­2013). Les objectifs de cette étude sont d'évaluer le pronostic à long terme, en regard de la traite mécanique, suivant la reconstruction d'un trayon lacéré et de déterminer les critères associés à un pronostic négatif. Une étude rétrospective sur 67 vaches laitières a été réalisée. La traite mécanique était adéquate pour 83 et 75 % des vaches à leur sortie de l'hôpital et lors du suivi à long terme. Pas de différences statistiques ont été trouvées entre le pronostic à long terme et l'âge des vaches, leur stade de lactation et la configuration de la lacération. Les lacérations réparées plus de 24 heures après le trauma avaient un pronostic moins bon (P = 0,05). La complication la plus fréquente était la mammite (n = 17). Elle avait un effet négatif sur le pronostic à long terme (P = 0,02). Reconstruire chirurgicalement un trayon lacéré peut rétablir la traite mécanique.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Laryngeal obstruction caused by lymphoma in an adult dairy cow.

A Holstein cow was presented for inspiratory dyspnea. Endoscopic evaluation revealed swollen arytenoids and a presumptive diagnosis of bilateral arytenoidal chondritis was made. A partial arytenoidectomy was performed, the right arytenoid was submitted for histopathology, and a diagnosis of laryngeal lymphoma was made. Due to the poor prognosis, the cow was euthanized.

Obstruction laryngée causée par un lymphome chez une vache à lait. Une vache Holstein a été présentée pour dyspnée inspiratoire. L'évaluation endoscopique a révélé une enflure des aryténoides. Une hypothèse diagnostique de chondrite des aryténoides a été émise. Une aryténoidectomie partielle a été effectuée. L'aryténoide droit a été soumis pour évaluation histopathologique. Un diagnostic de lymphome laryngé a été émis. Le pronostic d'un lymphome étant sombre, la vache a été euthanasiée.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Milk flow obstruction caused by varicose vein of the teat in dairy cattle.

OBJECTIVE: To describe varicose vein as a cause of obstruction of the teat cistern in dairy cattle and to report therapeutic options and outcome. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Dairy cows (n = 22). METHODS: Medical records (1998-2011) of dairy cows admitted for milking difficulties caused by a teat varicose vein were reviewed. Three treatment approaches were used: sclerotherapy, ligation of the vein associated with sclerotherapy, and phlebectomy. Long-term outcome was obtained ≥ 6 months after treatment and defined as a milking improvement. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the population at risk and a chi square test was used to evaluate the relationship between treatments and outcomes. RESULTS: Twenty-four teats (22 cows) had a varicose vein. Forequarters were more frequently affected than rear quarters (P < .01). Three sclerotherapies, 12 ligations associated with sclerotherapy and 6 phlebectomies were performed. Five veins were not treated. Overall prognosis with treatment was good (84%) at ≥ 6 months and was not significantly different between treatment types (P = .38). Recurrence of the obstruction by the varicose vein occurred in 3 of 19 teats. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Several surgical options are available for treatment of teat varicose veins. The overall prognosis of return to normal milking is good.

Ultrasound evaluation of tympanic bulla in calves.

An ultrasonographic approach for the tympanic bulla in calves is described. Ultrasound evaluation was performed through a lateral approach on 7 fetuses, 2 newborn calves, and 4 living calves of various ages. The probe was positioned caudal to the vertical mandibular ramus, ventral to the base of the ear. Three different positions of the probe were used. The tympanic bulla and adjacent structures were successfully identified and their ultrasonographic appearance described. Fluid within the tympanic bulla was visualized in 12 bullae in the cadavers and in 6 bullae in live calves. Ultrasound imaging has been shown to be useful but its diagnostic value remains to be studied in clinical cases of otitis media in calves.

RésuméÉvaluation échographique des bulles tympaniques chez le veau. Une technique d'échographie de la bulle tympanique chez le veau a été développée. L'échographie a été réalisée par approche latérale sur 7 cadavres de fœtus puis sur 2 veaux naissants et 4 veaux vivants d'âge variable. La sonde était placée caudalement au rameau mandibulaire, à la base de l'oreille. Trois différentes positions de sonde ont été utilisées. La bulle tympanique et les structures adjacentes ont pu être identifiées et leur apparence échographique a été décrite. Du liquide dans la bulle tympanique a pu être visualisé dans la majorité des bulles sur les cadavres (n = 12) et dans quelques bulles chez les veaux vivants (n = 6). L'échographie a été démontrée utile mais son application sur des cas cliniques d'otite moyenne reste à évaluer.(Traduit par les auteurs).

A retrospective study of 29 cases of otitis media/interna in dairy calves.

Epidemiological data, clinical findings, laboratory data, medical imaging, and outcomes were reviewed in 29 dairy calves with otitis media/interna. Age at admission ranged from 1 to 24 wk. The majority of calves were referred during winter. Clinical signs included drooping ear, ptosis, head tilt, abnormal nystagmus, strabismus, dysphagia, regurgitation, stiff neck, opisthotonos, facial hyperesthesia, and purulent aural discharge. Intranasal endoscopic examination of 5 animals revealed nasopharyngeal collapse in 4. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was abnormal in all of 7 cases. Mycoplasma bovis was cultured from all but 1 case with external ear or tympanic bullae samples (n = 12), and Mycoplasma arginini was cultured from the remaining ear sample. Radiographs of the tympanic bullae were performed in 24 calves, tomodensitometry (CT) in 3 calves and ultrasound in 4 calves. According to medical imaging techniques or necropsy, 69% of the cases were classified as chronic. Mean duration of treatment was 23.3 d. The rate of clinical recovery was 75%.Epidemiological data, clinical findings, laboratory data, medical imaging, and outcomes were reviewed in 29 dairy calves with otitis media/interna. Age at admission ranged from 1 to 24 wk. The majority of calves were referred during winter. Clinical signs included drooping ear, ptosis, head tilt, abnormal nystagmus, strabismus, dysphagia, regurgitation, stiff neck, opisthotonos, facial hyperesthesia, and purulent aural discharge. Intranasal endoscopic examination of 5 animals revealed nasopharyngeal collapse in 4. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was abnormal in all of 7 cases. Mycoplasma bovis was cultured from all but 1 case with external ear or tympanic bullae samples (n = 12), and Mycoplasma arginini was cultured from the remaining ear sample. Radiographs of the tympanic bullae were performed in 24 calves, tomodensitometry (CT) in 3 calves and ultrasound in 4 calves. According to medical imaging techniques or necropsy, 69% of the cases were classified as chronic. Mean duration of treatment was 23.3 d. The rate of clinical recovery was 75%.

RésuméÉtude rétrospective de 29 cas d'otite moyenne/interne chez les veaux laitiers. Les données épidémiologiques, les signes cliniques, les résultats de laboratoire et d'imagerie médicale et l'évolution de 29 veaux atteints d'otite moyenne/interne sont présentés. L'âge à la présentation variait de 1 à 24 semaines. La majorité des veaux ont été admis en hiver. Les signes cliniques incluaient une oreille tombante, une ptose de la paupière, une tête penchée, un nystagmus pathologique, un strabisme, de la dysphagie, des régurgitations, une raideur cervicale, de l'opisthotonos, de l'hyperesthésie faciale et une écoulements purulente de l'oreille. L'endoscopie des voies respiratoires supérieures a révélé un collapse du nasopharynx dans 4 cas sur 5. L'analyse du liquide céphalo-rachidien était anormale chez 7 veaux. Mycoplasma bovis a été isolé de tous les cas à partir d'échantillons d'oreille externe ou de bulle tympanique sauf 1 (n = 12) où Mycoplasma arginini a été isolé. La radiographie des bulles tympaniques a été réalisée sur 24 cas, la tomodensitométrie sur 3 cas et l'échographie sur 4 cas. Selon les techniques d'imagerie médicale ou la nécropsie, 69 % des cas étaient chroniques. La durée moyenne du traitement était de 23,3 jours. Le pronostic était de 75 %.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Admission lactate concentration has predictive value for death or severe complications within 30 days after admission in cattle with long-bone fractures.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prognostic value of lactate concentration measurements at admission in cattle with long-bone fractures. ANIMALS: 43 cattle with long-bone fractures between July 2016 and Dec 2018. PROCEDURES: In this prospective cohort study, lactate concentration was measured in systemic venous blood and locally in capillary blood sampled from the fractured and contralateral limbs of cattle and assessed for outcome prediction. The cutoff value was determined by maximizing the Youden index from receiver-operating characteristic curves. Multivariable logistic regression was employed to verify whether higher lactate concentrations compared with the cutoff value were an independent risk factor for poor outcomes at 30 days or 3 years after admission. RESULTS: Poor outcome was associated with higher capillary lactate concentration in the fractured limb (P < .001) and greater difference with systemic blood (P = .005). A cutoff value of lactate difference ≥ 2.4 mmol/L (sensitivity = 0.80; specificity = 0.965) between capillary lactate in the fractured limb and systemic blood was the best predictor of death ≤ 30 days after admission (P < .001). Multivariable analysis revealed that this cutoff value was an independent risk factor for 30-day and 3-year outcomes (P < .001). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Admission blood lactate concentration difference ≥ 2.4 mmol/L between the fractured limb and systemic blood was a robust and independent predictor of outcome for cattle of the present report. Lactate metabolism is locally impaired in fractured limbs of nonsurviving or at higher complication risk cattle, which may help identify patients at high risk for poor outcomes.

Unilateral nephrectomy in 10 cattle.

OBJECTIVE: To describe clinical and imaging findings, treatment, and long-term outcome of cattle undergoing unilateral nephrectomy. STUDY DESIGN: Case series. ANIMALS: Cattle (n=10). METHODS: Medical records (January 1991-August 2008) of cattle that had unilateral nephrectomy were reviewed. Follow-up data were obtained by owner telephone interview. RESULTS: Nephrectomy was performed without surgical complications. Transient increases in blood urea nitrogen and creatinine concentrations occurred after surgery and then returned to, or below, presurgical values in 9 cattle. Nine cows were discharged and 7 rejoined their respective herd as productive animals without long-term complications. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasonography was the most useful imaging tool for presurgical diagnosis. Based on our follow-up data, unilateral nephrectomy resulted in few serious short-term or long-term complications, and cattle undergoing this procedure are capable of satisfactory growth, reproduction, and milk production after surgery.

Congenital enlargement of the suburethral diverticulum in a Holstein calf.

A 3-month-old, female Holstein calf was examined because of marked perineal swelling and tenesmus of 4-days duration. A congenitally enlarged urethral diverticulum was diagnosed using fluoroscopic and ultrasonographic imaging techniques. The urethral diverticulum was surgically resected and the perineal area was reconstructed.

Survival and prognostic indicators in downer dairy cows presented to a referring hospital: A retrospective study (1318 cases).

BACKGROUND: Downer cow syndrome, a common problem in dairy cattle, represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for the attending veterinarian. Identifying prognostic indicators and assessing the odds of survival may improve the accuracy of the clinician's prognosis at the time of diagnosis. OBJECTIVE: To describe a population of downer dairy cows referred to a hospital and investigate predictors of outcome. ANIMALS: Recumbent adult dairy cows (cows unable or unwilling to stand without help) treated at a referral hospital. METHODS: Data at the time of admission were collected from medical records of downer dairy cows treated at the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vétérinaire between 1994 and 2016. Simple and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association of predictors with the outcome. RESULTS: Among 1318 cows included, 727 (55%) cows were discharged, and 591 (45%) cows died or were euthanized. Cows with longer time of recumbency before referral (odds ratio [OR] = 3.6), tachycardia (100-120 beats per minute [bpm], OR = 1.93; >120 bpm, OR = 2.92), tachypnea (OR = 1.76), hypothermia (OR = 2.08), anemia (OR = 3.30), neutropenia (OR = 1.7), high aspartate aminotransferase activity (500-1000 U/L, OR = 2.16; >1000 U/L, OR = 6.69), and increased serum creatinine concentration (OR = 1.75) had higher odds of nonsurvival. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: These findings may help the practitioner to consider treatment options and decide if referral is likely beneficial based on the odds of success. Early recognition of low chance of survival may facilitate an early decision for euthanasia.

Ultrasonographic diagnosis of porcupine quill foreign bodies in the plantar flexor tendon sheath region in a heifer.

A 17-month-old Holstein heifer was presented for persistent enlargement above the right hind fetlock of 1-month's duration. Diffuse plantar soft tissue swelling was present on the radiographs and ultrasonography revealed the presence of multiple porcupine quill extremities embedded in the subcutaneous tissue within the flexor tendon sheath wall. Surgical removal was performed.

Abomasitis in calves: A retrospective cohort study of 23 cases (2006-2016).

BACKGROUND: Abomasitis is a syndrome affecting young milk-fed calves. The current veterinary literature describes mainly its necropsy findings. OBJECTIVES: To describe the clinical presentation, complementary tests, treatments, and case-fatality rate of calves with a clinical diagnosis of abomasitis and to identify potential factors associated with outcome. METHODS: Observational retrospective cohort study (2006-2016). Review of the medical records of calves <3 months of age presented with abdominal and abomasal distension for <7 days that were clinically diagnosed with abomasitis at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the Université de Montréal. A follow-up examination was conducted by telephone interview. ANIMALS: Twenty-three calves clinically diagnosed with abomasitis. RESULTS: Median age of presentation was 3 days (range, 0-62 days). The typical duration of the clinical course was <24 hours (15/23). On admission, the 2 most common clinical signs were anorexia (13/14) and positive succussion (13/14). Hyper-l-lactatemia (15/16) and increased γ-glutamyl-transferase activity (13/14) were the most common laboratory abnormalities. Hypoproteinemia (19/22) and a left shift (15/18) of the neutrophils also were observed. The short-term case-fatality rate was 52% (12/23). The clinical diagnosis was confirmed on all necropsied calves. Clostridium spp. and Escherichia coli were the most frequently isolated bacteria. Based on univariate statistical analysis, the surviving calves were significantly (P < .05) less hypothermic, less acidemic, less hyper-l-lactatemic, and had lower serum creatinine concentrations on admission than did the deceased calves. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: In our study, abomasitis was associated with a guarded prognosis.