Establishment of methodology for non-invasive electrocardiographic measurements in turtles and tortoises.

The lack of knowledge on how to perform species-specific electrocardiographic (ECG) measurements in chelonians makes ECG evaluations difficult. The aim of this study was to establish non-invasive methods for ECG sample collection in different species of non-anaesthetised chelonians, focusing on adhesive and clamp electrodes. A total of 72 turtles and tortoises from 20 species and various sizes were used for the study. Body weight ranged from 32 g to 65 kg. From the aspect of specimen fixation, dorsal recumbency proved to be the most useful. Both adhesive and clamp electrodes yielded results when applied to the plastron and skin folds. Pre-emptive results suggest an indirect correlation with plastron thickness, the presence of a hinge, habitat and measurable ECG wave amplitude. ECG wave recordings are more likely in aquatic chelonians and species with a hinge. With size the plastron also thickens, making wave detection impossible. ECG waves were detected in 41 of the 72 specimens, complete PQRST complexes in 19 animals, with the rest showing absent P waves in all leads. ECG amplitudes were below 1 mV, with an average of 0.15 mV R wave amplitude.

Review of gastric torsion in eight guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus).

The authors present eight cases of gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) in guinea pigs from the Department and Clinic of Exotic Animal and Wildlife Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary between 2012 and 2016. Seven animals were operated on and two survived. Gastric torsion has been noted in many mammalian species. Gastric volvulus has a high morbidity and high mortality rate with a guarded to poor prognosis in all of these species. How GDV develops is still not widely understood. Postmortem examinations, in both our cases and previously reported cases, have failed to reveal the exact causes of the gastric torsions. The aetiology of gastric torsion in guinea pigs is probably multifactorial. Feeding fewer meals per day, eating rapidly, decreased food particle size, exercise, stress after a meal, competition, age, and an aggressive or fearful temperament, are all likely and potential risk factors for GDV development in a similar fashion to dogs. Sex, breeding, dental diseases, anatomical abnormalities, pain and pregnancy may also be contributing factors.

Primary Urinary Bladder Tumors in Three Guinea Pigs (Cavia Porcellus).

Urinary bladder tumors are not common in guinea pigs, but case numbers being diagnosed have increased in the past years. The authors present 3 referred cases of primary urinary bladder tumors in pet guinea pigs diagnosed using diagnostic imaging (CT, radiography, and ultrasonography) and exploratory laparotomy. Excision was not possible in the first case as the tumor was located at the neck of the urinary bladder and the owner opted for intraoperative euthanasia. The second and third cases both had tumors originating from the apex of the urinary bladder. The third guinea pig went into cardiac arrest during surgery and resuscitation was unsuccessful. The tumor was removed from the urinary bladder using partial cystectomy in the second case and 1-month postsurgery ultrasonographic examination showed no signs of tumor reoccurrence. Late recognition is the main reason for a negative outcome, as by this time tumors are already large and extensive. Whenever prolonged symptoms of hematuria are present and urolithiasis has been ruled out, ultrasonography should be undertaken to determine if a urinary tumor is the cause. Rechecks should be scheduled on a regular basis for guinea pigs when a definitive diagnosis can not be made at the initial presentation for vague clinical signs, as outcome and survival can reduce significantly when definitive treatment is delayed.

Use of skin flaps for reconstructive surgery in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus).

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to investigate the use of single-pedicle advancement flaps in the fixed skin regions of the head, neck and paravertebral region in guinea pigs. METHODS: Ultrasonography was performed on the guinea pigs to visualise the vascular anatomy of the looser regions of the thorax and abdomen and the more fixed paravertebral region and neck. Flap surgeries were then planned and undertaken on seven guinea pigs, with six having tumours on the lip, under the eye, the forehead, the neck or the paravertebral pelvic region, and one having a large paravertebral pelvic scar of unknown origin altering the animal's movement. The previously recommended 2:1 flap length:base width ratio was not enough in most cases, so larger flaps (3.5:1) were required. RESULTS: All seven single-pedicle advancement flaps survived and healed with outstanding results. CONCLUSION: The authors recommend to use reconstructive surgery in guinea pigs when there is a need to close large or difficult wounds, even on areas of fixed skin. Adequate arterial supply and sufficient venous outflow can be provided with larger flap length:base width ratios than previously suggested and can lead to full recovery.

Measurement of tear production and establishment of reference values in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) using a modified Schirmer tear test.

BACKGROUND: Past studies have shown that 5-mm Schirmer tear tests (STTs) are difficult to interpret in guinea pigs. Modified 2.5-mm STT strips are more adequate for measuring the small volume of tear production in these animals. The aim of this study was to establish reference values for the modified 2.5-mm STT strips. METHODS: Modified STT measurements were performed in random order in both eyes of 50 guinea pig patients. The wetting of the strip was noted at 30 seconds and at 1 minute. RESULTS: The mean±sd STT values for both eyes were 7.58±3.19 mm at 30 seconds and 10.42±3.92 mm at 60 seconds. The median was 8 mm at 30 seconds and 10 mm at 60 seconds for both eyes. Animals under one year of age had lower STT values. STT values at 30 and 60 seconds can both be used. Both eyes should be measured when possible. CONCLUSION: The authors recommend values above 8 mm at 30 seconds and 10 mm at 60 seconds to be considered normal when using a 2.5-mm STT strip. There are ambiguous areas at 5-8 mm and 6-10 mm. If in these ranges the results should be combined with clinical signs and judgement.