Infrared thermography for detection of blunt-force trauma injuries during animal abuse investigations.

Detection of bruising in living animal victims of abuse can be challenging due to animal temperament and anatomy. Visual assessment, combined with physical and serum biochemical evaluation, can fail to detect injuries. However, development and validation of a noninvasive, antemortem method for detecting bruising in domestic species could have important medicolegal implications. Key clinical message: Thermal imaging utilizing infrared wavelengths can assist in detection of trauma in cases of animal abuse where no visible injuries are apparent, aiding in providing appropriate medical treatment and guidance for the legal system.

Thermographie infrarouge pour la détection de traumatismes contondants lors d'enquêtes sur la maltraitance des animauxLa détection des ecchymoses chez les animaux vivants victimes de maltraitance peut s'avérer difficile en raison du tempérament et de l'anatomie de l'animal. L'évaluation visuelle, combinée à l'évaluation physique et une analyse biochimique sérique, peut ne pas détecter les blessures. Cependant, le développement et la validation d'une méthode ante-mortem non invasive pour détecter les meurtrissures chez les espèces domestiques pourraient avoir d'importantes implications médico-légales.Message clinique clé :L'imagerie thermique utilisant des longueurs d'onde infrarouges peut aider à détecter les traumatismes dans les cas de maltraitance animale où aucune blessure visible n'est apparente, contribuant ainsi à fournir un traitement médical approprié et à guider le système judiciaire.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Surgical Management of a Traumatic Brain Herniation Through the Bregmatic Fontanelle in a Dog.

A 1 yr old female Chihuahua was presented for traumatic skull injury. Computed tomography revealed brain herniation through the bregmatic fontanelle. The hernia was manually reduced, and the defect was repaired using a polypropylene mesh. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported case of brain herniation through the bregmatic fontanelle in a dog.

Virtual surgical planning and use of a 3D-printed, patient-specific reduction system for minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis of diaphyseal tibial fractures in dogs: A historic case control study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy and clinical outcomes of computed tomography (CT)-based virtual surgical planning (VSP) and a three-dimensional (3D)-printed, patient-specific reduction system to conventional indirect reduction techniques for diaphyseal tibial fractures stabilized using minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: A prospective clinical study with a historic control cohort. SAMPLE POPULATION: Dogs undergoing MIPO stabilization of diaphyseal tibial fractures using a custom 3D-printed reduction system (3D-MIPO; n = 15) or conventional indirect reduction techniques (c-MIPO; n = 14). METHODS: Dogs were prospectively enrolled to the 3D-MIPO group and CT scans were used to design and fabricate a custom 3D-printed reduction system to facilitate MIPO. Medical records were searched to identify dogs for the c-MIPO group. Pre-, intra- and postoperative parameters were compared between groups. RESULTS: The duration from presentation until surgery was 23 h longer in the 3D-MIPO group (p = .002). Fewer intraoperative fluoroscopic images were acquired (p < .001) and mean surgical duration was 34 min shorter in the 3D-MIPO group (p = .014). Median postoperative tibial length, frontal alignment, and sagittal alignment were within 4 mm, 3° and 3°, respectively, of the contralateral tibia in both groups and did not differ between reduction groups (p > .1). Postoperative complications occurred in 27% and 14% of fractures in the 3D-MIPO and c-MIPO groups, respectively. CONCLUSION: Both reduction methods yielded comparable results. Although the preoperative planning and guide preparation was time consuming, surgery times were shorter and fluoroscopy use was less in the 3D-MIPO group. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: VSP and the custom 3D-printed reduction system facilitated efficient MIPO.

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.

Erythropoietin as promoter of engraftment for treatment of radius/ulnar non-union fracture in a dog: Case report.

Background: Fractures with large bone defects and non-unions are a great challenge for veterinary orthopaedists. In small dog breeds, this complication is commonly encountered in fractures of the radius and ulna due to poorer vascularisation of the distal antebrachium region. Case Description: A case of radius/ulnar non-union in a 1.5-year-old Pinscher occurring after trauma and two successive unsuccessful osteosyntheses is described. During the operative revision, after the removal of existing bone implants, the bone defect was filled with cortical autologous bone graft. Autocancellous bone mixed with erythropoietin was applied proximally and distally to the cortical autograft for stimulation of bone healing. The post-operative period was without complications. As early as the 9th post-operative week, the animal was able to bear weight on the limb, without signs of lameness, pain, and swelling. Radiologically, a very good bridging of the graft was observed. Fifteen weeks after the operative revision, the fracture was completely healed with excellent clinical outcome. Conclusion: The application of autogenous cortical bone graft and cancellous autograft mixed with erythropoietin demonstrated an excellent therapeutic effect and resulted in complete regeneration of the large bone defect over a 15-week period.

Traumatic pericardial rupture with secondary cardiac herniation in a dog.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the unique finding and treatment of a dog with cardiac herniation due to traumatic pericardial rupture. CASE SUMMARY: A 6.5-year-old entire male Yorkshire Terrier was presented for further management after being hit by a car. Despite suspected significant intrathoracic trauma at that time, the patient regained hemodynamic stability and had orthopedic surgery to correct a right iliac fracture. The patient was readmitted to the hospital 12 days following the initial visit due to considerable respiratory difficulty after accidentally being dropped several feet. Thoracic radiographs revealed an unusual severe mediastinal shift to the left with an atypical position of the cardiac silhouette against the left lateral thoracic wall. Due to the severe respiratory compromise of the patient and newly developed pneumothorax, an exploratory thoracotomy was recommended, where a complete rupture of the pericardium was identified, with secondary left-sided prolapse of the heart. Other more common intrathoracic injuries (ie, lung perforation, rib fractures) were also identified and partially repaired. The patient recovered successfully and was discharged 4 days postoperatively. NEW OR UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED: This is the first case report in the veterinary literature of traumatic pericardial rupture and cardiac herniation. According to human case descriptions, this is a rare and often fatal occurrence, which can be significantly challenging to diagnose preoperatively or antemortem. Emergency veterinary clinicians should be aware of this rare but important complication of blunt thoracic trauma. Surgical intervention may be necessary in cases with suspected or confirmed entrapment of great vessels or cardiac chambers, although these abnormalities were not present in this case.

Tibial fracture associated with use of Arthrex self-tapping screws during tibial plateau leveling osteotomy in dogs and development of transcortical tibial fracture.

OBJECTIVE: Medical records for dogs treated with tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) using Arthrex 3.5 mm self-tapping screws (STS) were evaluated to determine the incidence rate of transcortical tibial fractures (TCTF) and development of complications. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case report. STUDY POPULATION: A total of 78 dogs. METHODS: Dogs that underwent a TPLO performed from March 2022 to August 2023 were reviewed. Postoperative TPLO radiographs were examined for evidence of a TCTF with Arthrex 3.5 mm STS. Records were reviewed for complications up to 14 weeks after surgery. RESULTS: Evidence of a TCTF was found in 42% of cases (33 of 78) and 14% (36 of 250) of STS screws distal to the osteotomy. TCTFs were only identified distal to the osteotomy. Three dogs had radiographic evidence of more than one TCTF. Of the dogs with radiographic TCTF, 6% of patients (2 of 33) developed a major complication that required surgical stabilization of a tibial fracture associated with screw angulation relative to the plate. CONCLUSION: Use of Arthrex 3.5 mm STS for TPLO is associated with risk of TCTF. TCTF can compromise the structural properties of the tibia and cause complete tibial fracture requiring major revision surgery. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Development of TCTF after use of STS for TPLO has been recognized, in contrast to use of non-self-tapping screws, and was considered a benign complication. Our findings suggest TCTF associated with Arthrex 3.5 mm STS use in TPLO can contribute to major complications after surgery, including complete tibial fracture, particularly if screws are not placed perpendicular to the plate.

Efficacy of virtual surgical planning and a three-dimensional-printed, patient-specific reduction system to facilitate alignment of diaphyseal tibial fractures stabilized by minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis in dogs: A prospective clinical study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of a three-dimensional (3D)-printed, patient-specific reduction system for aligning diaphyseal tibial fractures stabilized using minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO). STUDY DESIGN: Prospective clinical trial. SAMPLE POPULATION: Fifteen client owned dogs. METHODS: Virtual 3D models of both pelvic limbs were created. Pin guides were designed to conform to the proximal and distal tibia. A reduction bridge was designed to align the pin guides based on the guides' spatial location. Guides were 3D printed, sterilized, and applied, in conjunction with transient application of a circular fixator, to facilitate indirect fracture realignment before plate application. Alignment of the stabilized tibiae was assessed using postoperative computed tomography scans. RESULTS: Mean duration required for virtual planning was 2.5 h and a mean of 50.7 h elapsed between presentation and surgery. Guide placement was accurate with minor median discrepancies in translation and frontal, sagittal, and axial plane positioning of 2.9 mm, 3.6°, 2.7°, and 6.8°, respectively. Application of the reduction system restored mean tibial length and frontal, sagittal, and axial alignment within 1.7 mm, 1.9°, 1.7°, and 4.5°, respectively, of the contralateral tibia. CONCLUSION: Design and fabrication of a 3D-printed, patient-specific fracture reduction system is feasible in a relevant clinical timeline. Intraoperative pin-guide placement was reasonably accurate with minor discrepancies compared to the virtual plan. Custom 3D-printed reduction system application facilitated near-anatomic or acceptable fracture reduction in all dogs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Virtual planning and fabrication of a 3D-printing patient-specific fracture reduction system is practical and facilitated acceptable, if not near-anatomic, fracture alignment during MIPO.

The use of a novel nitric oxide wound dressing in acute traumatic wounds in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the use of a novel wound dressing that delivers nitric oxide (NO) to naturally occurring traumatic wounds in dogs. ANIMALS: 24 client-owned dogs with 30 wounds. METHODS: Dogs were presented with acute traumatic wounds requiring open wound management. Wounds were bandaged with a novel NO wound dressing and reassessed as needed for continued open wound management until wounds healed by second intention or wound closure was recommended. Dogs could be removed from the study at any point at the clinician's discretion. RESULTS: All wounds had the novel NO wound dressing used during open wound management until wound closure was recommended. Median time to wound closure was 6 days (range, 2 to 42). There were no complications directly attributed to the use of the novel wound dressing that clinically affected the dogs. Three wounds dehisced following wound closure. Wound healing was confirmed in 19 dogs with 25 wounds, with 3 dogs lost to follow-up prior to suture removal. Only 7.1% of wounds had clinical signs consistent with wound infection following wound closure. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The novel NO wound dressing was easy to use and well tolerated in dogs with naturally occurring traumatic wounds. It can be used throughout all phases of wound healing, simplifying open wound management.

Successful surgical management of a Salter-Harris type I fracture of the accessory carpal bone in a dog.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the successful surgical management of a previously unreported Salter-Harris type I fracture of the accessory carpal bone in a dog. ANIMAL: An 11-week-old intact female Golden Retriever-Poodle cross presented with a history of a marked left forelimb lameness following a suspected fall from a height. CLINICAL PRESENTATION, PROGRESSION, AND PROCEDURES: On physical examination, the patient demonstrated a severe left forelimb lameness and pain on palpation and range of motion of the left carpus. Orthogonal radiographs of the distal left forelimb demonstrated a type I Salter-Harris fracture of the accessory carpal bone with proximal displacement of the palmar fragment. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME: The patient underwent open reduction and internal fixation wherein the fracture was reduced and stabilized with two 1.1-mm Kirschner wires. Postoperatively, the patient was initially managed with a carpal flexion bandage for 2 weeks and then a soft padded bandage was maintained until 4 weeks postoperatively. The patient recovered well and was walking and weight-bearing comfortably following removal of the carpal flexion bandage. Repeat radiographs performed 4 and 8 weeks postoperatively demonstrated adequate fracture healing but showed mild proximocaudal implant displacement. Implant removal was not performed, as the patient was doing well at home and the implant migration appeared static and was not causing clinical morbidity. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: To the authors' knowledge, this was the only reported case of a Salter-Harris fracture of the accessory carpal bone in a dog and the only described case of successful surgical stabilization.

Outcomes of 15 dogs and two cats with metabone fractures treated with fluoroscopically guided normograde metabone pinning.

OBJECTIVE: To report the outcomes of 15 dogs and two cats with metabone fractures treated with fluoroscopically guided normograde metabone pinning (FGNMP). STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: A total of 15 client owned dogs and two cats with 57 metabone fractures. METHODS: Description of FGNMP and reporting of the following data: signalment, pre- and postoperative radiographs, intramedullary pin diameter used, anesthesia, surgery and coaptation times, duration to normal weightbearing and bone union, postoperative care and complications. RESULTS: Median surgery time was 54 min (range: 26-99), median duration of coaptation was 14 days (range: 1-5 weeks), median time to normal weightbearing was 16 days (range: 2-45) and median time to bone union was 6 weeks (range: 4-12). All cases had at least 12 months of post-surgical follow-up with a median follow-up of 18 months (range: 12-70). No major complications occurred. Mild radiographic changes associated with subchondral bone sclerosis were noted on follow-up radiographs in 13/57 fractures. All cases returned to normal gait and full (15) or acceptable (2) function. CONCLUSION: In this study, FGNMP was an effective and safe technique for metabone fracture repair, requiring only short-term external coaptation in most patients. Time to bone union and return to normal function compared favorably to previously reported techniques. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Fluoroscopically guided normograde metabone pinning provides an alternative technique for treatment of metabone fractures.

Noncombat injury and illness prevalence and working score percentage quantify the impact on duty availability in US Army Special Operations military working dogs.

OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study determined the 2-year period prevalence and quantified the impact on working status of noncombat injury and illness by a working score percentage (WSP) based on the number of duty days lost (DDL). ANIMALS: 126 dogs from 9 US Army Special Operations kennels. METHODS: Dog injury and illness events between May 1, 2021, and April 30, 2023, were recorded to determine period prevalence and calculate a WSP metric to quantify loss of duty status. RESULTS: 93 health events occurred in 62 of 126 (49.2%) dogs over a 24-month period resulting in 4,130 DDL. The period prevalence was 25 of 126 (19.8%) for dental injuries, 20 of 126 (15.9%) for musculoskeletal injuries, and 13 of 126 (10.3%) for gastrointestinal illnesses. Musculoskeletal conditions resulted in the highest total DDL at 1,472 (35.6%) in 20 dogs, followed by neurologic conditions at 950 (23%) in 4 dogs and heat injuries at 521 (12.6%) in 7 dogs. The total population 24-month mean WSP was 88.1% (95% CI, 86.6 to 89.5). The mean WSP for 43 dogs with acute events was 96.0% (95% CI, 95.0 to 97.0), and the mean WSP for 14 dogs with chronic events was 55.2% (95% CI, 47.8 to 62.5). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Quantifying the impact of noncombat illness and injury on the working status of military working dogs is the first step to identify risk factors, develop preventive strategies, resource veterinary care requirements, and improve these canine athletes' health and welfare. The metrics developed in this study can be used to evaluate the population health of working, herding, and sport dogs.

Comparative digital study using four methods of measurements of the tibial distal anatomical axes for determining the anatomical-mechanical angle in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament rupture.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluates the amplitude of the anatomical-mechanical angle (AMA-angle) using 4 measuring methods of the tibial distal anatomical axes (DAA) previously described, comparing the literature results to determine if there are significant differences in patients with cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) rupture. ANIMALS: This study was comprised of 30 tibiae (29 dogs), including 1 bilateral case. METHODS: A retrospective study was selected for this research. DAA measurements were performed on all surgically confirmed cases of canine CrCL rupture at Hospital Veterinário de Especialidades Bruselas from 2019 to 2022. Four different published methods (identified by surname of the corresponding author of the original publication) were compared. Tibial measurements were made using Veterinary Preoperative Orthopedic Planning Pro software (https://vpop-pro.com/) on mediolateral radiographic projections obtained from a digital database. RESULTS: The mean (range) in the DAA method conducted by Hulse obtained a AMA-angle of 5.4° (3.3 to 8.1°), 3.0° (0 to 5.8°) for Osmond et al, 3.2° (0.9 to 6°) for Miles, and 5.9° (2.4 to 8.8°) for Tudury. Differences among the means of the AMA-angle of the authors methods were found with a statistical difference (P < .05), except between Osmond and Miles. The mean AMA-angle with the Osmond method concurred with previous study results that determined the magnitude using the same measurement method of DAA in patients with CrCL rupture. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The AMA-angle magnitude has been associated with higher sensitivity and specificity for predicting the development of CrCL rupture compared to other anatomical factors evaluated; therefore, future comparisons with different methods of measurement of the DAA between healthy and affected patients are recommended to determine whether any of them can increase the percentage value as a predictive factor for the occurrence of this condition.

Caudoventral hip luxation in 160 dogs (2003-2023): A multicenter retrospective case series.

OBJECTIVE: To describe patient characteristics, etiology, treatment outcomes and complications of caudoventral hip luxation (CvHL) in a large cohort of dogs and investigate factors associated with nonsurgical treatment outcomes. STUDY DESIGN: Multicenter retrospective case series. ANIMAL POPULATION: A total of 160 client-owned dogs (170 limbs). METHODS: Medical records from 2003 to 2023 were reviewed for signalment, history, treatment outcomes and complications. Logistic regression was performed to investigate factors associated with nonsurgical treatment outcome. RESULTS: Low-trauma accidents accounted for 82.9% of cases. Over-represented breeds included poodles (38.1%) and poodle crosses (11.3%). On a per-treatment basis, success rates of closed reduction alone, closed reduction/Ehmer sling, closed reduction/hobbles were 9.1%, 15.2% and 48.8%, respectively. When accounting for repeated attempts using closed reduction alone, Ehmer sling, or hobbles, eventual success rate increased to 10.3%, 18.5% and 61.8%, respectively. Success rate for toggle rod stabilization was 88.2%. Complication rate of hobbles was 31.9% versus 60.6% for Ehmer slings. Use of hobbles (OR:7.62, p = .001, CI:2.23-26.05), treatment by specialist surgeons (OR:2.68, p = .047, CI: 1.01-7.08) and increasing age (OR:1.15, p < .005, CI: 1.08-1.23) were associated with successful nonsurgical treatments. CONCLUSION: Low-trauma etiology, and poodles and their crosses were over-represented in cases of CvHL. Success rate of nonsurgical treatments was lower than previously reported. Hobbles were 7.6 times more likely to be successful when compared to dogs treated without hobbles and remains a viable noninvasive first-line treatment. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE/IMPACT: Hobbles are recommended as a low-morbidity first-line treatment for CvHL. An Ehmer sling is not recommended. Toggle rod stabilization is an effective surgical treatment for CvHL.

Presumed post-traumatic subdural hygroma in a 2.5-year-old spayed female Chihuahua.

A 2.5-year-old spayed female Chihuahua dog was presented with chronic cervical pain and exhibited a "prayer-like position" following a history of a 4-meter fall. CT and MRI revealed a moderate right-sided enlargement of the subdural space with cerebrospinal fluid, consistent with a subdural hygroma, appearing connected to a quadrigeminal cistern dilation. Percutaneous transfontanellar external drainage of the subdural fluid accumulation did not prevent its re-accumulation, and the dog was managed medically, leading to the complete resolution of clinical signs. The subdural hygroma was suspected to be secondary to the previous trauma.

Clinical Assessment of a Lateral Epicondylar Anatomical Plate for the Stabilization of Humeral Condylar Fractures in Dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To report the use of a Lateral Epicondylar Anatomical Plate for the management of humeral condylar fractures (HCF) in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Medical records of dogs with HCF stabilized using the Lateral Epicondylar Anatomical Plate at six UK veterinary referral centres between April 2018 and February 2021 were reviewed. Long-term follow-up (>6 months) was obtained via owner questionnaire, which incorporated the Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs clinical metrology instrument. RESULTS: Sixty-two HCF were treated in 61 dogs (44 lateral condylar fractures [LCF] and 18 intracondylar (T/Y) fractures [ICF]). Fifty-one dogs were Spaniels or Spaniel crossbreeds. Intraoperative contouring of the plate was required for one dog-a French Bulldog. Postoperative complications occurred in 14/42 LCF and 6/18 ICF; overall there were 14 minor, 8 major, and 2 catastrophic complications. On final follow-up imaging, there was evidence of partial or complete osseous continuity of the condylar part of the fracture 32/53 HCF (24/39 LCF and 8/14 ICF) and lateral epicondylar part of the fracture in 53/53 HCF (39/39 LCF and 14/14 ICF). At final reexamination, 20/28 dogs with LCF and 5/13 dogs with ICF were not lame and the remaining dogs demonstrated mild lameness. According to the owner questionnaire, 17/17 dogs with LCF and 8/10 dogs with ICF returned to full limb use and median Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs scores were 2/52 for LCF and 6.5/52 for ICF. CONCLUSION: The Lateral Epicondylar Anatomical Plate can be used successfully for the surgical stabilization of HCF in dogs.

Humeral Condylar Fractures in French Bulldogs: Prevalence of Contralateral Intracondylar Fissure, Treatment, and Outcome.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to report (1) the prevalence of contralateral humeral intracondylar GAP/HIF (HIF) in French Bulldogs with humeral condylar fractures (HCF) and (2) treatment and short- and long-term outcome in French Bulldogs with HCF. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Medical records of French Bulldogs treated surgically for HCF between January 2011 and November 2022 were reviewed. Perioperative imaging, surgical technique, complications, and long-term outcome were assessed. RESULTS: Eighty-nine dogs with HCF were included and 36/89 were diagnosed with HIF. Surgical repair was performed in all HCF and a prophylactic transcondylar screw was placed in 20/36 HIF. For prophylactic transcondylar screw placement, two dogs required immediate revision surgery. Complications occurred in 12/89 HCF, and there were major complications in 6/89 HCF. Long-term outcome evaluated by owner questionnaire (n = 27) was rated as being excellent in 18/27 dogs, good in 8/27 dogs, and fair in 1/27 dogs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Forty percent of French Bulldogs with HCF had a contralateral HIF. HIF as a cause of HCF should be considered in the French Bulldog, and a computed tomography (CT) scan of both elbows may be advisable prior to HCF repair. The complication rate of HCF surgery in the French Bulldog is significant.

Leash-related injuries associated with dog walking: an understudied risk for dog owners?

The topic of dog-walking injuries has recently gained notoriety through major media outlets in North America, including the Washington Post, NPR, and US News and World Report. In this review, we have compiled data from the main studies published in the past 2 decades that assess the incidence, demographics, and injury patterns related to dog leash walking. The available papers indicate that dog leash-related injuries have increased, particularly among women over 65. The most common causes of injury are dog-pulling behavior, which can result in tripping or tangling, with or without a fall, as well as upper extremity injuries. However, there is a lack of information regarding dog size, breed, training status, the type of leash used at the time of injury, and the role each factor may have in the incidence of injuries. The available data did not allow for evaluation of the impact of weather conditions on injury incidence. Information about the involved dogs, type of lead device, and weather conditions could be useful in identifying risk factors associated with dog ownership and guide prospective pet owners and their families to mitigate the risk of injuries.

Successful centralisation technique for treatment of post-traumatic absence of the radial shaft in a dog.

This report describes a centralisation procedure for the treatment of a radial non-union, characterised by extensive bone loss and an intact ulna, in an 18-month-old toy poodle. A lateral approach to the radius/ulna shafts was realised and, after debridement of the non-union site, an ulnar osteotomy was performed proximal to the styloid process of the ulna. Transposition of the distal fragment of the radius to the distal end of the osteotomised proximal segment of the ulna was performed and the stabilisation was obtained using a locking plate with proximal screws in the ulnar shaft and distal screws in the radius epiphysis. The patient achieved bone union in 10 weeks and the last evaluation, performed 112 weeks postoperatively, showed a full return to pre-injury function. Based on the results of this report, the centralisation was effective in the treatment of post-traumatic absence of the radial shaft in a dog.

Prospective evaluation of the surgical stabilization and outcome of canine tibial plateau fractures in three cases.

OBJECTIVE: To report the surgical approaches and stabilization of lateral and medial tibial plateau fractures (TPF), as well as the long-term outcome following repair. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective series of three client-owned dogs. ANIMALS: Three dogs. METHODS: For the two lateral TPF cases (Unger type 41-B1), the surgical approach included separation of the lateral collateral ligament and long digital extensor tendon. The lateral meniscus was elevated to allow visualization of the tibial surface and assess fracture reduction. The first case was repaired using two 2.0 mm lag screws (with washers). The second case sustained a lateral TPF, fibular fracture and concurrent tubercle of Gerdy fracture. Both tibial fractures were stabilized using two 2.0 mm lag screws with washers and two 0.9 mm Kirschner wires (K-wires). A third case, diagnosed with an Unger type 41-B2 medial TPF, was treated using 0.9 mm K-wires and 22-gauge tension band. RESULTS: There were no major complications noted. One minor complication occurred (screw yield two weeks postoperatively). By 8 weeks, all patients reached clinical union with good limb function. Owners were contacted 9-36 months postoperatively. LOAD scores and examinations were performed for two of three patients; the third patient was not contactable after relocating out of state. Both cases with completed questionnaires had a LOAD score of 5/52. CONCLUSION: Tibial plateau fractures are rare in canine patients. While challenging, they can be successfully managed using a combination of lag screws, K-wires, and tension band. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Surgical stabilization of TPF is feasible and may reduce the risk of meniscal injury.