Pharmacokinetic, sedative, and physiological effects of oral compounded formulations of trazodone alone or in combination with gabapentin in male cats.

Trazodone and gabapentin are common oral sedatives in cats, used alone or combined, but no pharmacokinetic studies exist for trazodone in this species. The objective of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetics of oral trazodone (T) alone, or in combination with gabapentin (G) in healthy cats. Cats (n = 6) were randomly allocated to receive T (3 mg/kg) intravenously (IV), T (5 mg/kg) orally (PO), or T (5 mg/kg) and G (10 mg/kg) PO with a 1-week washout period between treatments. Heart rate, respiratory rate, indirect blood pressure, and level of sedation were assessed, and venous blood samples were collected serially over 24 h. Analysis of plasma trazodone concentration was performed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Oral T administration resulted in a bioavailability of 54.9(7-96)%, and 17.2(11-25)% when administered with G. Tmax 0.17 (0.17-0.5) and 0.17 (0.17-0.75) h; Cmax 1.67 ± 0.91 and 1.22 ± 0.54 µg/mL, AUC 5.23 (2.0-18.76) and 2.37 (1.17-7.80) h*µg/mL; T1/2 5.12 ± 2.56 and 4.71 ± 1.07 h; for T and TG, respectively. Sedation was significant when compared to baseline in all groups from 20 or 45 min to 8 h indicating some lag between peak plasma concentration and sedative effects. Physiological variables remained within normal limits. This study concludes that oral trazodone is rapidly absorbed in healthy cats. Addition of gabapentin did not result in more profound sedation, showing no clinical advantage of combining these drugs in this study population.

Management of penetrating thoracic wounds from a dog attack in a Nigerian dwarf goat: A case report.

Pet goat ownership has gradually increased in popularity and veterinarians are expected to provide gold-standard treatments for these animals. As in small-animal practice, decision-making regarding thoracic bite injuries is challenging because of the variability in clinical, radiographic, and surgical findings. Mortality rates from dog bite wounds in small animals range between 15.3 and 17.7%, and these cases represent 10% of all traumatic injuries referred to an emergency service; such information is not available regarding pet goats. The aim of this report is to describe a thoracic dog bite wound in a goat. It details the clinical, radiographic, and surgical findings and the repair, and reports the successful outcome, all to provide information to small-ruminant practitioners for treatment or referral. Future retrospective studies will help to determine prognostic factors for outcomes in goats with thoracic dog bite wounds. Key clinical message: Thoracic bite wounds are a challenge to manage, considering the potential severe underlying pathology and the absence of clear external injuries or clinical signs. Referring veterinarians and owners should be advised that goats with the presence of flail chest, pneumothorax, or rib fractures may require a higher level of intervention.

Prise en charge des plaies thoraciques pénétrantes consécutives à une attaque de chien chez une chèvre naine nigériane : rapport de cas. La possession de chèvres de compagnie a progressivement gagné en popularité et les vétérinaires devraient fournir des traitements de référence pour ces animaux. Tout comme dans la pratique des petits animaux, la prise de décision concernant les morsures thoraciques est difficile en raison de la variabilité des résultats cliniques, radiographiques et chirurgicaux. Les taux de mortalité par morsure de chien chez les petits animaux varient entre 15,3 et 17,7 %, et ces cas représentent 10 % de toutes les blessures traumatiques référées à un service d'urgence; ces informations ne sont pas disponibles concernant les chèvres de compagnie. Le but de ce rapport est de décrire une morsure thoracique de chien chez une chèvre. Il détaille les résultats cliniques, radiographiques et chirurgicaux ainsi que la réparation, et rend compte du résultat positif, le tout dans le but de fournir des informations aux praticiens des petits ruminants pour un traitement ou une référence. De futures études rétrospectives aideront à déterminer les facteurs pronostiques des résultats chez les chèvres présentant des morsures thoraciques de chien.Message clinique clé :Les morsures thoraciques sont un défi à gérer, compte tenu de la pathologie sous-jacente potentiellement grave et de l'absence de blessures externes ou de signes cliniques évidents. Les vétérinaires référents et les propriétaires doivent être informés que les chèvres présentant un volet thoracique, un pneumothorax ou des fractures des côtes peuvent nécessiter un niveau d'intervention plus élevé.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Description and validation of a new descriptive and multiparametric numeric rating scale to assess sedation in cats.

The objective of this study was to design and assess the validity and reliability of a new feline multiparametric sedation scale (FMSS). A total of 89 household cats were recruited, enabling a total of 534 sedation assessments. Every assessment was performed by 3 blinded observers with varying expertise levels (Level 1: Student; Level 2: RVT; Level 3: ACVAA diplomate or senior resident). For comparison purposes, a visual analogue scale (VAS) and a Simple Qualitative Scale (SQS) were also used concurrently, with the VAS considered the gold standard. The new scale had excellent inter-observer agreement among experience groups with weighted Kappa scores of 0.84 (Levels 1 versus 2), 0.82 (Levels 2 versus 3), and 0.84 (Levels 1 versus 3), with P < 0.0001 for all comparisons. There was a high degree of association between FMSS and VAS (r = 0.90, P < 0.0001) and between FMSS and SQS (r = 0.89, P < 0.0001). Final FMSS numerical values were paired with levels of sedation with None = 0 (0 to 5), Mild = 4 (1 to 7), Moderate = 6 (2 to 10), and Profound = 12 (7 to 12); furthermore, differences were detected between pre- and post-sedation evaluations (P = 0.001). This scale demonstrated internal consistency and sensitivity even when evaluating drugs or doses with minimal sedative effects and there was very strong interrater reliability, independent of experience level. Based on this clinical study, we concluded that the use of this sedation scale is appropriate when objective numerical sedation quantification is required, in either a clinical or research setting.

Description et validation d'une nouvelle échelle d'évaluation numérique descriptive et multiparamétrique pour évaluer la sédation chez le chat. L'objectif de cette étude était de concevoir et d'évaluer la validité et la fiabilité d'une nouvelle échelle de sédation multiparamétrique féline (FMSS). Un total de 89 chats domestiques a été recruté, permettant un total de 534 évaluations de sédation. Chaque évaluation a été effectuée par trois observateurs en aveugle avec différents niveaux d'expertise (Niveau 1 : étudiant; Niveau 2 : RVT; Niveau 3 : diplomate de l'ACVAA ou résident senior). À des fins de comparaison, une échelle visuelle analogique (VAS) et une échelle qualitative simple (SQS) ont également été utilisées simultanément, VAS étant considérée comme l'étalon. La nouvelle échelle présentait un excellent accord inter-observateurs parmi les groupes d'expérience avec des scores Kappa pondérés de 0,84 (niveaux 1 versus 2), 0,82 (niveaux 2 versus 3) et 0,84 (niveaux 1 versus 3), avec P < 0,0001 pour toutes les comparaisons. Il y avait un degré élevé d'association entre FMSS et VAS (r = 0,90, P < 0,0001) et entre FMSS et SQS (r = 0,89, P < 0,0001). Les valeurs numériques FMSS finales ont été appariées avec les niveaux de sédation avec Aucun = 0 (0 à 5), Léger = 4 (1 à 7), Modéré = 6 (2 à 10) et Profond = 12 (7 à 12); en outre, des différences ont été détectées entre les évaluations pré- et post-sédation (P = 0,001). Cette échelle a démontré une cohérence interne et une sensibilité même lors de l'évaluation de médicaments ou de doses avec des effets sédatifs minimes et il y avait une très forte fiabilité inter-évaluateur, indépendamment du niveau d'expérience. Sur la base de cette étude clinique, nous avons conclu que l'utilisation de cette échelle de sédation est appropriée lorsqu'une quantification numérique objective de la sédation est requise, dans un cadre clinique ou de recherche.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Evaluation of the analgesic effect of fentanyl-ketamine and fentanyl-lidocaine constant rate infusions in isoflurane-anesthetized dogs undergoing thoracolumbar hemilaminectomy.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate anesthetic conditions and postoperative analgesia with the use of intraoperative constant rate infusions (CRIs) of fentanyl-lidocaine or fentanyl-ketamine in dogs undergoing thoracolumbar hemilaminectomy. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, blinded, clinical study. ANIMALS: A total of 32 client-owned dogs. METHODS: Dogs were premedicated with fentanyl (5 µg kg-1) administered intravenously (IV), anesthesia was induced with IV alfaxalone and maintained with isoflurane. Fentanyl (0.083 µg kg-1 minute-1) was infused IV with either ketamine (0.5 mg kg-1; then 40 µg kg-1 minute-1; group KF) or lidocaine (2 mg kg-1; then 200 µg kg-1 minute-1; group LF) assigned randomly. Heart rate, noninvasive arterial pressures, respiratory rate, esophageal temperature, end-tidal partial pressure of carbon dioxide and isoflurane concentration were recorded throughout anesthesia. Maintenance of anesthesia, recovery and postoperative pain (Glasgow Composite Pain Scale) were scored. Cardiopulmonary data were analyzed using a two-way anova with repeated measures, demographics of the two groups with a t test, and scores with Mann-Whitney U test, with p < 0.05. RESULTS: All dogs recovered from anesthesia without complications. No significant difference was found between groups for cardiopulmonary variables, total anesthesia time, sedation score and requirement for postoperative sedation or for rescue analgesia. Anesthetic maintenance score was of lower quality in KF than in LF [median (interquartile range): 0 (0-0.5) versus 0 (0-0); p = 0.032)], but still considered ideal. Recovery score was higher and indicative of less sedation in LF than in KF [1 (1-1.5) versus 0.5 (0-1); p < 0.0001]. Pain score was higher in KF than in LF [2 (1-3) versus 1 (1-2); p = 0.0009]. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Both CRIs of KF and LF provided adequate anesthetic conditions in dogs undergoing thoracolumbar hemilaminectomy. Based on requirement for rescue analgesia, postoperative analgesia was adequate in both groups.

Use of intravenous lidocaine to treat dexmedetomidine-induced bradycardia in sedated and anesthetized dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To assess cardiopulmonary function in sedated and anesthetized dogs administered intravenous (IV) dexmedetomidine and subsequently administered IV lidocaine to treat dexmedetomidine-induced bradycardia. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, crossover experimental trial. ANIMALS: A total of six purpose-bred female Beagle dogs, weighing 9.1 ± 0.6 kg (mean ± standard deviation). METHODS: Dogs were randomly assigned to one of three treatments: dexmedetomidine (10 µg kg-1 IV) administered to conscious (treatments SED1 and SED2) or isoflurane-anesthetized dogs (end-tidal isoflurane concentration 1.19 ± 0.04%; treatment ISO). After 30 minutes, a lidocaine bolus (2 mg kg-1) IV was administered in treatments SED1 and ISO, followed 20 minutes later by a second bolus (2 mg kg-1) and a 30 minute lidocaine constant rate infusion (L-CRI) at 50 (SED1) or 100 µg kg-1 minute-1 (ISO). In SED2, lidocaine bolus and L-CRI (50 µg kg-1 minute-1) were administered 5 minutes after dexmedetomidine. Cardiopulmonary measurements were obtained after dexmedetomidine, after lidocaine bolus, during L-CRI and 30 minutes after discontinuing L-CRI. A mixed linear model was used for comparisons within treatments (p < 0.05). RESULTS: When administered after a bolus of dexmedetomidine, lidocaine bolus and L-CRI significantly increased heart rate and cardiac index, decreased mean blood pressure, systemic vascular resistance index and oxygen extraction ratio, and did not affect stroke volume index in all treatments. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Lidocaine was an effective treatment for dexmedetomidine-induced bradycardia in healthy research dogs.

Ultrasound-guided modified subcostal transversus abdominis plane block and influence of recumbency position on dye spread in equine cadavers.

OBJECTIVE: To describe and evaluate an ultrasound-guided modified subcostal approach for the transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block in horse cadavers in lateral or dorsal recumbency. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, experimental cadaveric study. ANIMALS: Study of one preserved foal and eight fresh adult horse cadavers. METHODS: The lateral and ventral abdominal wall of a preserved cadaver was dissected to identify the muscles and nerves. A unilateral standard TAP block technique was performed (60 mL of methylene blue dye-bupivacaine) on a fresh cadaver in right lateral recumbency. A modified subcostal technique was performed on the opposite side using a linear ultrasound transducer and in-plane approach. Injection points (two 30 mL dye) were at the level of the TAP (between the rectus abdominis and transversus abdominis muscles and ventral to the cutaneous trunci muscle) perpendicular to: 1) the mid-point between the xiphoid cartilage and umbilical scar; and 2) at a point between the caudal and middle thirds of the abdomen measured from the first injection point to the umbilical scar. The modified subcostal approach was performed in seven additional cadavers in both hemiabdomens, with three cadavers in lateral and four cadavers in dorsal recumbency. Ultrasound guidance was used with all injections. RESULTS: The standard approach stained the sixteenth to eighteenth thoracic nerves (T16-T18). The modified subcostal approach performed in lateral recumbency provided greater spread (T9-T17) than dorsal recumbency (T12-T18) (p = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The modified subcostal TAP approach resulted in extensive staining exceeding the standard approach. The nerves stained are consistent with production of ventral abdominal wall anesthesia in horses. Clinical studies are needed to verify these findings.

Effectiveness of a paraverterbral nerve block versus local portal blocks for laparoscopic closure of the nephrosplenic space: A pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of a paravertebral nerve block vs local portal blocks for laparoscopic closure of the nephrosplenic space in standing sedated research horses. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized clinical trial. ANIMALS: Twelve horses were randomly allocated to two groups (n = 6 per group), paravertebral block of nerves T18 , L1 , and L2 or local blocks of the three laparoscopic portals. METHODS: Horses were sedated with dexmedetomidine (4 µg/kg IV and constant rate infusion [CRI] of 2.5 µg/kg/h) and morphine (50 µg/kg IV and CRI of 30 µg/kg/h). According to group allocation, 20 mL of either lidocaine or saline was injected into each paravertebral nerve site or into each local portal site to facilitate laparoscopy for closure of the nephrosplenic space. The overall quality of sedation, analgesia, behavior exhibited during surgery, and ease to perform the surgery were blindly scored by using a visual analog scale (VAS). RESULTS: Time to complete local anesthesia was similar for both blocks, and there was no difference in VAS scores between groups. Total duration of surgery was also similar between the paravertebral (79 ± 16 min) and local portal blocks (85 ± 25 min) groups. CONCLUSION: The paravertebral nerve block and the local portal blocks provided similar conditions during surgery and can be used interchangeably for closure of the nephrosplenic space. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The paravertebral nerve block can be readily performed and may be useful in surgical procedures.

Evaluation of the performance of an endoscopic 3-mm electrothermal bipolar vessel sealing device intended for single use after multiple use-and-resterilization cycles.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the performance of an endoscopic 3-mm electrothermal bipolar vessel sealing device (EBVS) intended for single use after multiple use-and-resterilization cycles. STUDY DESIGN: Ex vivo study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Eight 3-mm EBVS handpieces. METHODS: Handpieces were subjected to a maximum of 15 cycles of testing, including simulated surgery, sealing and burst pressure testing of porcine carotid arteries, reprocessing, and hydrogen peroxide plasma resterilization. Failure was defined as two sequential vascular seal leakage events occurring at <250 mm Hg. Histological evaluation, maximum external temperature of the jaws, sealing time, tissue adherence, jaw surface characterization, and mechanical deterioration were studied. Failure rate was analyzed by using a Kaplan-Meier curve. Linear and ordinal logistic mixed models were used to analyze sealing time, handpiece jaw temperature, and adherence score. RESULTS: Mean ± SD diameter of arteries was 3.22 ± 0.35 mm. Failure was observed starting at cycle 10 and going up to cycle 13 in 37.5% (3/8) of the handpieces. Tissue adherence increased after each cycle (P < .001). Maximum external temperature (79.8°C ± 13.9°C) and sealing time (1.8 ± 0.5 seconds) were not significantly different throughout cycles up to failure. A flatter surface and large scratches were observed microscopically throughout the jaw surface after repeated use and resterilization. CONCLUSION: The 3-mm EBVS handpiece evaluated in this study can be considered safe to use for up to nine reuse-and-resterilization cycles. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: These data provide the basis for establishing preliminary guidelines for the reuse and hydrogen peroxide plasma resterilization of an endoscopic 3-mm EBVS handpiece.

Cardiovascular effects of increasing dosages of norepinephrine in healthy isoflurane-anesthetized New Zealand White rabbits.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the cardiovascular effects of increasing dosages of norepinephrine (NE) in healthy isoflurane-anesthetized rabbits. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective experimental study. ANIMALS: A total of nine female ovariohysterectomized New Zealand White rabbits weighing 3.4 ± 0.2 kg (mean ± standard deviation). METHODS: Rabbits were premedicated intramuscularly with buprenorphine (0.05 mg kg-1) and midazolam (0.5 mg kg-1). Anesthesia was induced with intravenous propofol and maintained with a 1.1 × minimum alveolar concentration of isoflurane for this species to induce hypotension. Rabbits were administered NE infusions at three doses: low, 0.1 µg kg-1 minute-1; medium, 0.5 µg kg-1 minute-1; and high doses, 1 µg kg-1 minute-1 for 10 minutes each in that order. Cardiovascular variables including heart rate (HR), cardiac output (CO) by lithium dilution technique and systolic (SAP), mean (MAP) and diastolic (DAP) invasive arterial blood pressures measured in the auricular artery were recorded at baseline, 10 minutes after the start of the infusion of each NE treatment and 10 minutes after NE was discontinued. A linear mixed model and a type III anova with Tukey's post hoc comparison was performed (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Significant increases in SAP (28% and 90%), MAP (27% and 90%) and DAP (33% and 97%) were measured with medium and high dose treatments, respectively (p < 0.001), with no changes in CO. HR decreased and stroke volume increased significantly with high dose treatment (by 17% and 15%, respectively; p < 0.05). No arrhythmias were noticed with NE treatments. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The infusion of NE at 0.5-1.0 µg kg-1 minute-1 is a potentially effective treatment for hypotension in healthy isoflurane-anesthetized New Zealand White rabbits.

Dose and cardiopulmonary effects of propofol alone or with midazolam for induction of anesthesia in critically ill dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the dose and cardiopulmonary effects of propofol alone or with midazolam for induction of anesthesia in American Society of Anesthesiologists status ≥III dogs requiring emergency abdominal surgery. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, blinded, clinical trial. ANIMALS: A total of 19 client-owned dogs. METHODS: Dogs were sedated with fentanyl (2 µg kg-1) intravenously (IV) for instrumentation for measurement of heart rate, arterial blood pressure, cardiac index, systemic vascular resistance index, arterial blood gases, respiratory rate and rectal temperature. After additional IV fentanyl (3 µg kg-1), the quality of sedation was scored and cardiopulmonary variables recorded. Induction of anesthesia was with IV propofol (1 mg kg-1) and saline (0.06 mL kg-1; group PS; nine dogs) or midazolam (0.3 mg kg-1; group PM; 10 dogs), with additional propofol (0.25 mg kg-1) IV every 6 seconds until endotracheal intubation. Induction/intubation quality was scored, and anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane. Variables were recorded for 5 minutes with the dog in lateral recumbency, breathing spontaneously, and then in dorsal recumbency with mechanical ventilation for the next 15 minutes. A general linear mixed model was used with post hoc analysis for multiple comparisons between groups (p < 0.05). RESULTS: There were no differences in group demographics, temperature and cardiopulmonary variables between groups or within groups before or after induction. The propofol doses for induction of anesthesia were significantly different between groups, 1.9 ± 0.5 and 1.1 ± 0.5 mg kg-1 for groups PS and PM, respectively, and the induction/intubation score was significantly better for group PM. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Midazolam co-induction reduced the propofol induction dose and improved the quality of induction in critically ill dogs without an improvement in cardiopulmonary variables, when compared with a higher dose of propofol alone.

Single-Port Laparoscopic Treatment and Outcome of Dogs with Ovarian Remnant Syndrome: 13 Cases (2010-2018).

Ovarian remnant syndrome (ORS) is a condition resulting from incomplete removal of ovarian tissue during ovariectomy and/or ovariohysterectomy. Single-port laparoscopy (SPL) is an alternative to ventral midline laparotomy for treatment of ORS. Medical records of 13 client-owned female dogs who underwent SPL for the treatment of ORS were retrospectively reviewed to evaluate surgical technique and outcome. Dogs who had undergone a previous attempt at open ovariectomy or ovariohysterectomy were included. Major intraoperative complications did not occur and conversion to open laparotomy was not required. In 1 dog, an SPL + 1 technique was used, in which an additional port was placed cranial to the single-port device to aid in dissection and tissue manipulation. Median surgical time was 45 min (range, 30-90 min). Clinical signs related to estrus had resolved in 11 of 13 dogs with a median follow-up time of 18 mo. Two of 13 dogs were lost to follow-up at 3 mo postoperatively; however, signs of estrus had resolved at time of last follow-up. SPL treatment for ORS was feasible and successful in this cohort of dogs. Reduced surgical time was found in this study compared with previous reports investigating multiple-port laparoscopic treatment of ORS.

Non-invasive blood pressure measurement in animals: Part 1 - Techniques for measurement and validation of non-invasive devices.

Arterial blood pressure is a common parameter evaluated in conscious and anesthetized veterinary species. Non-invasive blood pressure measurement techniques, such as Doppler ultrasonic flow detector and oscillometry, are attractive in certain animals due to their availability and ease of use. The greatest limitation to non-invasive blood pressure monitoring can be its inaccuracy, particularly in hypotensive or hypertensive patients and in certain species. Part 1 of this 2-part review summarizes the current techniques available to non-invasively measure arterial blood pressure in animals and discusses validation of non-invasive devices. Part 2 summarizes the veterinary literature that evaluates the use of non-invasive blood pressure measurement techniques in conscious and anesthetized species and develops general conclusions for proper use and interpretation of data from non-invasive blood pressure devices.

Mesures de la pression sanguine chez les animaux de manière non-invasive: Partie 1 ­ Techniques pour mesurer et validation d'appareils non-invasifs. La pression sanguine artérielle est un paramètre fréquemment évalué chez les espèces animales conscientes et anesthésiées. Des techniques non-invasives de mesure de la pression sanguine, telles que le détecteur ultra-sonique de flot Doppler et l'oscillométrie, sont attirantes chez certains animaux étant donné leur disponibilité et facilité d'utilisation. La plus grande limitation au suivi non-invasif de la pression sanguine peut être son imprécision, particulièrement chez les patients hypotensifs ou hypertensifs et chez certaines espèces. La partie 1 de cette revue en deux parties résume les techniques présentement disponibles pour mesurer de manière non-invasive la pression sanguine artérielle chez des animaux et discute la validation d'équipements non-invasifs. La partie 2 résume la littérature vétérinaire qui évalue l'utilisation de techniques de mesure non-invasives de la pression sanguine chez des espèces conscientes et anesthésiées et développe des conclusions générales pour l'utilisation appropriée et l'interprétation des données obtenues d'équipements noninvasifs de mesure de la pression sanguine.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Review of non-invasive blood pressure measurement in animals: Part 2 - Evaluation of the performance of non-invasive devices.

Arterial blood pressure is a common parameter evaluated in conscious and anesthetized veterinary patients for a variety of reasons. Non-invasive blood pressure measurement techniques, such as Doppler ultrasound and oscillometry, are attractive in certain veterinary patients due to their availability and ease of use. The greatest limitation to non-invasive blood pressure monitoring can be its inaccuracy, particularly in hypotensive or hypertensive patients and in certain species. Part 1 of this 2-part review summarized the current techniques available to non-invasively measure arterial blood pressure in veterinary species and discussed validation of non-invasive devices. Part 2 summarizes the veterinary literature that evaluates the use of non-invasive blood pressure measurement techniques in conscious and anesthetized species and develops general conclusions for proper use and interpretation of non-invasive blood pressure devices.

Mesure de la pression sanguine de manière non-invasive chez les animaux. Partie 2 ­ Évaluation de la performance des équipements non-invasifs. La pression sanguine artérielle est un paramètre fréquemment évalué chez les patients vétérinaires conscients et anesthésiés pour une variété de raisons. Les techniques noninvasives de mesure de la pression sanguine, telles que les ultrasons Doppler et l'oscillométrie, sont intéressantes chez certains patients vétérinaires étant donné leur disponibilité et leur facilité d'utilisation. La principale limitation du suivi de la pression sanguine par des méthodes non-invasives peut être son imprécision, particulièrement chez des patients hypotensifs ou hypertensifs, et chez certaines espèces. La première partie de cette revue en deux parties résumait les techniques présentement disponibles pour mesurer de manière non-invasive la pression sanguine artérielle chez des espèces animales et discutait de la validation des équipements non-invasifs. La deuxième partie résume la littérature vétérinaire qui évalue l'utilisation de techniques non-invasives de mesure de la pression sanguine chez des espèces conscientes et anesthésiées et développe des conclusions générales pour l'utilisation et l'interprétation appropriées des équipements non-invasifs de mesure de la pression sanguine.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Comparison of outcome in dogs undergoing single-incision laparoscopic-assisted intestinal surgery and open laparotomy for simple small intestinal foreign body removal.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and compare outcome in dogs that underwent single-incision laparoscopic-assisted intestinal surgery (SILAIS) and open laparotomy (OL) for simple foreign body removal. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: Twenty-eight client-owned dogs that underwent SILAIS (n = 13) or OL (n = 15). METHODS: Foreign body removal via SILAIS was performed with a commercially available single-port device. After laparoscopic evaluation, a wound retraction device (WRD) was inserted. The small intestine was extracorporeally explored, and foreign body removal was performed. The surgeon's hand was inserted through the WRD to palpate portions of the gastrointestinal tract not able to be extracorporeally evaluated. Open laparotomy with foreign body removal was performed via a ventral midline approach. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed, and perioperative data were collected. Follow-up data were collected with a standardized questionnaire with the referring veterinarian and/or owner via telephone interview. RESULTS: No postoperative complications were encountered in either the SILAIS or the OL group, and all dogs were successfully discharged from the hospital. Conversion from SILAIS to OL occurred in 3/13 cases. There was no significant difference in duration of hospitalization, duration of time to recovery, or surgical time between surgical approaches (SILAIS vs OL). CONCLUSION: Single-incision laparoscopic-assisted intestinal surgery for foreign body removal was not significantly different from OL in a variety of outcome measures in this cohort of dogs. Diagnostic imaging including ultrasonography or computed tomography may improve appropriate case selection for SILAIS for simple foreign body removal. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Single-incision laparoscopic-assisted intestinal surgery offers a minimally invasive technique for simple small intestinal foreign body removal. Additional study is required to compare SILAIS with OL.

Comparison of calculated lumbosacral epidural volumes of injectate using a dose regimen based on body weight versus length of the vertebral column in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To compare volumes for epidural injection calculated on body weight or the length from sacrococcygeal space to occipital crest in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective study. ANIMALS: A total of 431 dogs weighing mean ± standard deviation (range) 24.6 ± 16.1 (1.3-88.0) kg and with vertebral column length 67.6 ± 38.4 (24.8-119.4) cm. METHODS: Dogs were separated into specific weight groups and body condition scores (BCS; 1-5): small (<10 kg), medium 10 to <25 kg), large (25 to <45 kg) and giant (≥45 kg). Calculations for a lumbosacral epidural dose were 0.2 mL kg-1 and for vertebral column length: 0.05 mL cm-1 (<50 cm), 0.07 mL cm-1 (50 to <70 cm), 0.08 mL cm-1 (70 to <80 cm), and 0.11 mL cm-1 (≥80 cm). A split plot anova (p < 0.05) with weight, length and BCS as factors was used. RESULTS: A significantly larger volume was calculated for length than for weight in small (p < 0.0001-0.0003, BCS 2-5), medium (p < 0.0001-0.0076, BCS 2-5), and large dogs (p ≤ 0.0007-0.0019, BCS 2,3). In large (BCS 4,5) and giant dogs (BCS 2,3), both calculated volumes were similar. In giant dogs (BCS 4,5), a significantly smaller volume was calculated for length (p ≤ 0.0002-0.0165). Regardless of BCS, small (2.18 versus 1.12), medium (3.99 versus 3.16), and large dogs (7.38 versus 6.82) had larger calculated volumes (mL) for length than for weight (p < 0.0001), whereas giant dogs (10.04 versus 10.91) had smaller calculated volumes. CONCLUSIONS: and clinical relevance Mathematically, the epidural volume of injectate varies with the calculation method and is affected by BCS. Small and medium dogs have larger calculated volumes based on length than on weight, and this difference tends to disappear or revert as size increases.

Anatomical characterization of the brachial plexus in dog cadavers and comparison of three blind techniques for blockade.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the ventral spinal nerve rami contribution to the formation of the brachial plexus (BP), and to compare ease of performing and nerve staining between three blind techniques for BP blockade in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, blind study. ANIMALS: A total of 18 dog cadavers weighing 28.2 ± 9.7 kg (mean ± standard deviation). METHODS: Dogs were randomly assigned to two of three BP treatments: traditional approach (TA), perpendicular approach (PA), and axillary approach (AA). Dye (0.2 mL kg-1) was injected in the left BP using a spinal needle; another BP treatment was used in the right BP. Landmarks (L) included: L1, midpoint between point of the shoulder and sixth cervical (C6) transverse process; L2, scapulohumeral joint; and L3, first rib. For TA, the needle was introduced craniocaudally through L1, medial to the limb and cranial to L3. For PA, the needle was directed perpendicular and caudal to L2, aligned with L1, until cranial to L3. For AA, the needle was directed ventrodorsally, parallel and cranial to L3 until at L1. All BPs were scored for dyeing quality [0 (poor) to 5 (excellent)]. The left BP was dissected for nerve origins. Durbin test was used to compare scores (p < 0.05). RESULTS: In all dogs, the musculocutaneous nerve originated from C7 and C8; the radial nerve from C8, the first thoracic vertebra (T1) (16/18 dogs) and C7 (2/18); and the median and ulnar nerves from C8, T1 (17/18) and C7 (1/18). Respective raw scores and adjusted scores for the incomplete block design were not significantly different (p = 0.72; ranks TA 16.5, PA 19.0, AA 18.5). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The musculocutaneous, median, ulnar and radial nerves originate from C7, C8 and T1. Regardless of the technique, knowledge of anatomy and precise landmarks are relevant for correct dye dispersion.

Laparoscopic-assisted ovariohysterectomy for the treatment of pyometra in a Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris).

A laparoscopic-assisted ovariohysterectomy was performed in a 19-year-old intact, female Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) presented for surgical treatment of pyometra. A multi-port technique was used with intra-corporeal sealing of the ovarian pedicles and extra-corporeal ligation of the uterine vessels and body. The tiger recovered from surgery and anesthesia without complication, was released into its enclosure the same day, and has remained clinically normal. Laparoscopic-assisted ovariohysterectomy may have advantages over open ovariohysterectomy for treatment of pyometra in the tiger.

Ovario-hystérectomie assistée par laparascopie pour le traitement de pyométrite chez un tigre du Bengale(Panthera tigris tigris). Une ovario-hystérectomie assistée par laparascopie a été réalisée sur un tigre du Bengale femelle intacte âgée de 19 ans (Panthera tigris tigris) présentée pour le traitement chirurgical d'un pyomètre. Une technique multi-ports a été utilisée avec le scellement intracorporel des pédicules ovariens et la ligature extracorporelle des vaisseaux et du corps utérins. Le tigre s'est rétabli de la chirurgie et de l'anesthésie sans complication, a été remis en liberté dans son enclos le même jour et est demeuré cliniquement normal. L'ovario-hystérectomie assistée par laparoscopie peut avoir des avantages par rapport à l'ovario-hystérectomie ouverte pour le traitement du pyomètre chez le tigre.(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).

Massive uterine lipoleiomyoma and leiomyoma in a miniature poodle bitch.

A 15-year-old, intact, female miniature poodle was presented for further evaluation of a large abdominal mass. Computed tomography was conducted to determine the origin of the mass and 2 large uterine masses were discovered. Ovariohysterectomy was performed and histopathological evaluation revealed a massive uterine lipoleiomyoma (27 × 17 × 15 cm), the largest recorded in the veterinary literature, and a smaller leiomyoma (7 × 5 × 4 cm).

Lipoléiomyome utérin massif et léiomyome chez une chienne Caniche miniature. Une chienne Caniche miniature intacte âgée de 15 ans a été présentée pour une évaluation approfondie d'une grosse masse abdominale. Une analyse par tomodensitométrie a été réalisée afin de déterminer l'origine de la masse et deux grandes masses utérines ont été découvertes. L'ovariohystérectomie a été réalisée et l'évaluation histopathologique a révélé un lipoléimomyome utérin massif (27 × 17 × 15 cm), le plus gros jamais consigné dans la littérature vétérinaire et un plus petit léiomyome (7 × 5 × 4 cm).(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).

Induction dose and recovery quality of propofol and alfaxalone with or without midazolam coinduction followed by total intravenous anesthesia in dogs.

OBJECTIVES: To compare propofol and alfaxalone, with or without midazolam, for induction of anesthesia in fentanyl-sedated dogs, and to assess recovery from total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA). STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, incomplete, Latin-square study. ANIMALS: Ten dogs weighing 24.5 ± 3.1 kg (mean ± standard deviation). METHODS: Dogs were randomly assigned to four treatments: treatment P-M, propofol (1 mg kg-1) and midazolam (0.3 mg kg-1); treatment P-S, propofol and saline; treatment A-M, alfaxalone (0.5 mg kg-1) and midazolam; treatment A-S, alfaxalone and saline, administered intravenously (IV) 10 minutes after fentanyl (7 µg kg-1) IV. Additional propofol or alfaxalone were administered as necessary for endotracheal intubation. TIVA was maintained for 35-55 minutes by infusions of propofol or alfaxalone. Scores were assigned for quality of sedation, induction, extubation and recovery. The drug doses required for intubation and TIVA, times from sedation to end of TIVA, end anesthesia to extubation and to standing were recorded. Analysis included a general linear mixed model with post hoc analysis (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Significant differences were detected in the quality of induction, better in A-M than A-S and P-S, and in P-M than P-S; in total intubation dose, lower in P-M (1.5 mg kg-1) than P-S (2.1 mg kg-1), and A-M (0.62 mg kg-1) than A-S (0.98 mg kg-1); and lower TIVA rate in P-M (268 µg kg-1 minute-1) than P-S (310 µg kg-1 minute-1). TIVA rate was similar in A-M and A-S (83 and 87 µg kg-1 minute-1, respectively). Time to standing was longer after alfaxalone than propofol, but was not influenced by midazolam. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Addition of midazolam reduced the induction doses of propofol and alfaxalone and improved the quality of induction in fentanyl-sedated dogs. The dose rate of propofol for TIVA was decreased.

Intra-operative hyperthermia in a young Angus bull with a fatal outcome.

A healthy, 9-month-old black Angus bull was presented for elective penile-preputial translocation and caudal epididymectomy. After premedication and induction, general anesthesia was maintained with inhalant anesthetic. Over an hour into the anesthetic period the bull developed severe hyperthermia and hypercapnia that resulted in fatality despite treatment efforts.

Hyperthermie peropératoire chez un jeune taureau Angus produisant un résultat mortel. Un taureau Black Angus en santé et âgé de 9 mois a été présenté pour une translocation pénile-préputiale non urgente et une épididymectomie caudale. Après la prémédication et l'induction, l'anesthésie générale a été maintenue avec un anesthésique par inhalation. Une heure après le début de la période d'anesthésie, le taureau a développé une hyperthermie et une hypercapnie graves qui ont entraîné la mort malgré des efforts de traitements.(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).