Surgical management of squamous cell carcinoma of the canine male external genitalia: 15 cases (1994-2020).

Fifteen male dogs with squamous cell carcinoma of the external genitalia were admitted for further investigation and surgical management between 1994 and 2020. The dogs belonged to various breeds. Thirteen dogs were intact and two were castrated with a median age of 8 years and a median weight of 28 kg. Seven dogs were white-coated and eight nonwhite coated. Scrotal ablation and orchiectomy were performed in four dogs, partial penile amputation in two, partial penile amputation plus partial preputial ablation in one, penile amputation, and scrotal urethrostomy in seven, and local preputial excision in one dog. Postoperative complications included hemorrhage in 10 dogs, bruising at the urethrostomy site in seven, and urethrostomy dehiscence in one dog. Tumor recurrence was recorded in six dogs. Dogs with poorly differentiated tumors that had tumor recurrence had shorter survival and worse prognosis compared to those with well and moderately differentiated tumors. The mean survival time was 48.132 months. After a median follow-up of 23 months (range: 8 to 72 months), eight dogs were alive, five were euthanized and two dogs died from unrelated causes. Surgical excision seems to be a treatment option for dogs with squamous cell carcinoma of the external genitalia.

Preoperative management and postoperative complications in 9 dogs undergoing surgical treatment of thymic-associated myasthenia gravis.

Objective: Thymoma-associated paraneoplastic syndromes in dogs and cats include myasthenia gravis, hypercalcemia, exfoliative dermatitis, erythema multiforme, T-cell lymphocytosis, myocarditis, anemia, and polymyositis. Paraneoplastic myasthenia gravis (MG) is the most commonly reported paraneoplastic syndrome in dogs with thymic epithelial tumors. The objective of this study was to examine cases of canine thymic-associated MG treated surgically, with the specific objective of providing an updated clinical picture of the preoperative management, postoperative complications, and outcomes of these cases. Animals: Nine dogs with paraneoplastic MG underwent surgical removal of a thymic epithelial tumor. Procedure: Medical records of dogs with MG that received surgical treatment of a thymic epithelial tumor between January 1, 2012 and October 1, 2022 were obtained from 4 veterinary teaching hospitals. Descriptions of perioperative MG management, complications, and outcomes were reported. Results: Six of the 9 dogs received medical therapy for MG, with either a cholinesterase inhibitor (4 dogs) or a cholinesterase inhibitor and immunosuppressive agent (2 dogs), before surgery. The median duration of medical therapy for MG before surgery was 7.5 d (range: 2 to 60 d). Three of 9 dogs experienced immediate postoperative complications and were euthanized. Six of 9 dogs (66.6%) survived to discharge and 3 of 6 dogs that survived to discharge were alive at the time of writing. At the time of writing, 3 of 6 dogs had complete resolution of clinical signs attributable to MG and 2 of 6 had partial resolution. The median time from surgery to resolution of clinical signs of MG in these dogs was 63 d (range: 2 to 515 d). Conclusion: Dogs with thymic epithelial tumors and paraneoplastic MG are at a high risk for perioperative complications. Clinical relevance: The findings of this study corroborate previous literature stating that paraneoplastic MG is a poor prognostic indicator for dogs with thymic epithelial tumors, while also highlighting the variation in approaches to clinical management of thymic-associated MG in veterinary medicine and the lack of established protocols guiding perioperative management.

Prise en charge préopératoire et complications postopératoires chez 9 chiens subissant un traitement chirurgical de la myasthénie grave associée au thymus. Objectif: Les syndromes paranéoplasiques associés au thymome chez le chien et le chat comprennent la myasthénie grave, l'hypercalcémie, la dermatite exfoliative, l'érythème polymorphe, la lymphocytose à cellules T, la myocardite, l'anémie et la polymyosite. La myasthénie paranéoplasique (MG) est le syndrome paranéoplasique le plus fréquemment rapporté chez les chiens atteints de tumeurs épithéliales thymiques. L'objectif de cette étude était d'examiner les cas de MG canine associée au thymus traités chirurgicalement, dans le but spécifique de fournir un tableau clinique actualisé de la prise en charge préopératoire, des complications postopératoires et des résultats de ces cas. Animaux: Neuf chiens atteints de MG paranéoplasique ont subi l'ablation chirurgicale d'une tumeur épithéliale thymique. Procédure: Les dossiers médicaux des chiens atteints de MG ayant reçu un traitement chirurgical d'une tumeur épithéliale thymique entre le 1er janvier 2012 et le 1er octobre 2022 ont été obtenues auprès de 4 hôpitaux universitaires vétérinaires. Des descriptions de la prise en charge péri-opératoire de la MG, des complications et des résultats ont été rapportées. Résultats: Six des 9 chiens ont reçu un traitement médical pour la MG, avec soit un inhibiteur de la cholinestérase (4 chiens), soit un inhibiteur de la cholinestérase et un agent immunosuppresseur (2 chiens), avant la chirurgie. La durée médiane du traitement médical de la MG avant la chirurgie était de 7,5 jours (plage : 2 à 60 jours). Trois des neuf chiens ont présenté des complications postopératoires immédiates et ont été euthanasiés. Six des 9 chiens (66,6 %) ont survécu jusqu'à leur sortie et 3 des 6 chiens qui ont survécu jusqu'à leur sortie étaient en vie au moment de la rédaction. Au moment de la rédaction de cet article, 3 chiens sur 6 présentaient une résolution complète des signes cliniques attribuables à la MG et 2 chiens sur 6 présentaient une résolution partielle. Le délai médian entre l'intervention chirurgicale et la résolution des signes cliniques de MG chez ces chiens était de 63 jours (plage : 2 à 515 jours). Conclusion: Les chiens atteints de tumeurs épithéliales thymiques et de MG paranéoplasique présentent un risque élevé de complications périopératoires. Pertinence clinique: Les résultats de cette étude corroborent la littérature antérieure indiquant que la MG paranéoplasique est un indicateur de mauvais pronostic pour les chiens atteints de tumeurs épithéliales thymiques, tout en soulignant également la variation des approches de prise en charge clinique de la MG associée au thymus en médecine vétérinaire et le manque de protocoles établis de gestion guidant les interventions périopératoires.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Use of a haired angularis oris axial pattern flap in a dog to correct a large oronasal fistula secondary to resection of a hard palate multilobular osteochondrosarcoma.

A 6-year-old neutered male mixed-breed dog underwent curative-intent surgical resection of a hard palatal multilobular osteochondrosarcoma and closure of the defect using bilateral buccal mucosal flaps. However, failure of the flaps resulted in a massive hard palatal defect that was subsequently repaired using a haired skin angularis oris axial pattern flap. This report describes the clinical outcome using this surgical approach and novel complications encountered. Key clinical message: The haired skin angularis oris axial pattern flap appears to be a suitable and robust option for reconstruction of large palatal defects.

Utilisation d'un lambeau cutanée poilus avec rotation axiale au niveau de l'artère angularis oris chez un chien pour corriger une fistule oronasale volumineuse secondaire à la résection d'un ostéochondrosarcome multilobulaire du palais dur. Un chien croisé mâle castré de 6 ans a subi une résection chirurgicale à visée curative d'un ostéochondrosarcome multilobulaire du palais dur et une fermeture de l'anomalie par des lambeaux de la muqueuse buccale. Cependant, la défaillance des lambeaux a entraîné un défaut important du palais dur qui a ensuite été réparé à l'aide d'un lambeau de peau avec poils avec rotation axiale au niveau de l'artère angularis oris. Ce rapport décrit les résultats cliniques de cette approche chirurgicale et les nouvelles complications rencontrées.Message clinique clé :L'utilisation d'un lambeau de peau avec poils avec rotation axiale au niveau de l'artère angularis oris semble être une option appropriée et robuste pour la reconstruction des défauts importants du palais.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Evaluation of clopidogrel, hypercoagulability, and platelet count in dogs undergoing splenectomy for splenic masses.

Dogs that had splenectomy are predisposed to fatal thrombotic conditions, and thrombocytosis is a risk factor for post-splenectomy hypercoagulability. However, in veterinary medicine, there are no specific therapeutic approaches for managing this hypercoagulability. This study aimed to determine the preventive effect of clopidogrel on post-operative hypercoagulability during the first 2 weeks post-splenectomy in dogs with splenic masses. This study included 12 dogs that had splenectomy. Seven dogs received no treatment (group A), and five were treated with clopidogrel (group B). Clopidogrel was loaded at 10 mg/kg on day 2 and continued at 2 mg/kg until day 14. Blood samples were collected on the day of surgery and 2, 7, and 14 days after splenectomy in both groups. In group B, thromboelastography (TEG) was performed on the same days. In group A, there was significant elevation of platelet counts on days 7 (p = 0.007) and 14 (p = 0.001) compared to day 0. In group B, the platelet counts were significantly elevated on day 7 (p = 0.032) but no significant difference was found on day 14 compared to day 0. Platelet counts on day 14 were significantly higher in group A than in group B (p = 0.03). The lower platelet counts were correlated with alterations in TEG parameters, and no significant differences were found in the K and α-angle values at all postoperative assessment points compared to day 0. Our study suggests that clopidogrel may reduce post-operative thrombocytosis and hypercoagulability in dogs that undergo splenectomy for splenic masses.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence of complications after tracheal stenting in dogs.

BACKGROUND: Stenting has become popular to treat tracheal collapse in dogs, but complications might arise and negatively affect treatment outcome. OBJECTIVES: Determine the overall prevalence of complications of tracheal stenting in dogs. METHODS: A bibliographic search was performed of publications from 2000 to 2020. Studies were assessed for quality of evidence and measured prevalence of the 8 most commonly reported complications after tracheal stenting in dogs (stent fracture, stent migration, relapsing collapse, granuloma formation, tracheobronchial infections, and early, late, and clinically relevant late cough). Random effects meta-analyses were used to estimate pooled complications prevalence. RESULTS: Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria. Cough (early: 99%; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 95%-100%, late: 75%; 95% CI: 63%-85%, and clinically relevant: 52%; 95% CI: 42%-61%), tracheobronchial infections (24%; 95% CI: 14%-35%), and granulomas (20%; 95% CI: 11%-30%) were common after tracheal stenting. Stent fractures (12%; 95% CI: 5%-20%), relapsing collapse (10%; 95% CI: 5%-15%), and stent migration (5%; 95% CI: 1%-9%) were less frequent. Significant heterogeneity among studies was identified for the estimated prevalence of stent fracture, granulomas, infections, and late cough. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Tracheal stenting in dogs is associated with a high risk of coughing and a moderate risk of tracheobronchial infections and granuloma formation. Because most complications will impact a dog's quality of life, owners must be informed that tracheal stenting is a second-line procedure that does not necessarily alleviate the need for medical treatment and frequent follow-up visits. Additional studies are warranted to identify the risk factors of these complications.

Effect of cranial tibial artery laceration on radiographic bone healing and perioperative complications in dogs undergoing tibial plateau leveling osteotomy.

During tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO), the laceration of the cranial tibial artery (LCTA) may occur, and the ligation of the cranial tibial artery might lead to impaired blood supply to the osteotomy site. The present case-control study aimed to evaluate the effect of LCTA on TPLO healing and the occurrence of perioperative complications. The incidence and predisposing factors to LCTA were also investigated. Fourteen cases experiencing LCTA were retrospectively enrolled from medical records of two veterinary teaching hospitals (LCTA group), whereas 28 randomly selected TPLOs that did not experience LCTA were included in the control group. Signalment data, proximal tibial epiphysis conformation, osteotomy features, perioperative complications, and bone healing were compared between the two groups. Bone healing was evaluated using the modified radiographic union scale for tibial fracture and the visual analog scale. The mean incidence was 9.6%. Bodyweight was significantly higher in the LCTA group compared to the control group (P = 0.009). Dogs belonging to the LCTA groups were significantly younger (P = 0.01). Intraoperative hypotension was significantly overreported in the LCTA group (P = 0.0001). None of the other variables differed significantly between the two groups. Dogs' size seems to be a predisposing factor, with dogs weighing >15 kg having 22 times more chance of experiencing LCTA. Due to the well-developed collateral blood supply of the canine hindlimb, LCTA and the closure of the cranial tibial artery did not appear to delay the radiographic bone healing or affect the incidence of perioperative complications.

Neurological consequences after portosystemic shunt attenuation in cats: A meta-analysis study.

Neurological symptoms that occur after treatment of portosystemic shunts, in cats, known as post-attenuation neurological signs (PANS) can be quite severe. This study seeks to analyze a better understanding of the neurological outcomes that result from reducing portosystemic shunts in felines and provide insights that could guide future clinical approaches and treatment strategies for congenital portosystemic shunts (CPSS).The research utilized the MOOSE Checklist as a guide. PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science ScienceDirect, Embase, Scopus, ProQuest, and Google Scholar were used. The study investigated diversity using variance, Cochran Q tests with Applied fixed effects, and random effects models. A meta-regression model identified contributors. Eggers test funnel plot and Beggs test for asymmetry addressed publication bias. 12 high-quality studies were discovered from 664 research papers. This research covered years, shunt morphology, and surgery. PANS occurred 38.9 % of the time in cats, while PAS occurred 20.2 %. The overall PANS mortality rate was 17 %, while PAS was 37.2 %. The complete ligation technique was most common in subgroup analysis. PANS occurrence ranged from 26.8 % to 56.5 % in cats with congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts The cause of PANS in cats is still unknown, and there is only limited evidence to justify the use of preventive antiepileptic medications such as levetiracetam. The treatment primarily aims to control neurologic symptoms, and the long-term outlook varies, with the potential for the reappearance of symptoms.

Application of collagen matrix (DuraGen®) to reduce subcutaneous emphysema in canine dorsal rhinotomy.

This retrospective case study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of collagen matrix (DuraGen®) in preventing subcutaneous emphysema, a common complication following dorsal rhinotomy. Six client-owned dogs diagnosed with nasal masses using computed tomography were included in this study. Dorsal rhinotomy was performed, and a collagen matrix was used to seal bone defects before fixation of the nasal bone flap. Following collagen matrix application, all dogs recovered without notable complications. These findings suggest that the collagen matrix is a reliable and safe intervention for mitigating subcutaneous emphysema after dorsal rhinotomy.

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.

Outcome of video-assisted thoracoscopic treatment of idiopathic chylothorax in 15 cats.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the outcomes and complications of video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) treatment of chylothorax in cats. STUDY DESIGN: Multi-institutional retrospective study. ANIMALS: Fifteen client-owned cats. METHODS: The medical records of cats undergoing thoracoscopic thoracic duct ligation (TDL) for treatment of idiopathic chylothorax were reviewed. Cats undergoing additional procedures including thoracoscopic pericardectomy and/or laparoscopic cisterna chyli ablation (CCA)_were included. Follow up was obtained through communication with the referring veterinarian or owner. RESULTS: All cats underwent thoracoscopic TDL. Thirteen cats underwent simultaneous pericardectomy and two cats underwent laparoscopic CCA without pericardectomy. Conversion from a thoracoscopic to open approach was necessary in 2/15 (13%) of thoracic duct ligations and 1/11 (9%) of pericardectomies. The most common postoperative complication was persistent pleural effusion in five cats (33%). Four of 15 cats (27%) died or were euthanized prior to hospital discharge following surgery. Recurrence of effusion occurred in 1/7 (14%) of cats that sustained resolution of the effusion at the time of surgery with a median follow up of 8 months. The overall mortality attributed to chylothorax was 47%. CONCLUSION: Thoracoscopic treatment of idiopathic chylothorax resulted in a low incidence of intraoperative complications or conversion in the study population; however, mortality related to feline idiopathic chylothorax remained high. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: While VATS treatment of idiopathic chylothorax is technically feasible, further consideration of the underlying pathology and current treatment algorithm is needed to improve outcomes as this remains a frustrating disease to treat in the feline population.

Retrospective evaluation of the effects of a single intraoperative dose of dexamethasone in horses undergoing exploratory laparotomy for small intestinal lesions (2008-2019): 240 cases.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of a single intraoperative dose of dexamethasone on the risk of postoperative reflux (POR) in horses undergoing small intestinal surgery and to investigate its association with incisional complications and short-term survival. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study over an 11-year period (2008-2019). SETTING: UK-based private referral center. ANIMALS: Two hundred and forty client-owned horses >6 months of age undergoing exploratory laparotomy for treatment of a small intestinal lesion. INTERVENTIONS: Ninety-seven horses received a single intraoperative dose of dexamethasone (0.1 mg/kg, IV). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Of 97 horses that received dexamethasone, 52 (53.6%) required small intestinal resection. Of 143 horses that did not receive dexamethasone, small intestinal resection was performed in 78 (54.5%). A total of 70 horses (29%) developed POR. There was no difference in the risk of POR between horses that received dexamethasone (25/97; 26%) and those that did not (45/143; 31%, P = 0.34). Risk factors associated with the development of POR included small intestinal resection (odds ratio [OR]: 4.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.27-9.11, P < 0.001), a PCV >40% 24 hours postoperatively (OR: 4.11, 95% CI: 2-8.45, P < 0.001), and a WBC count >10 × 109/L on admission (OR: 3.29, 95% CI: 1.47-7.41, P = 0.004). Dexamethasone was not associated with the odds of POR. Horses undergoing repeat laparotomy had a higher risk of incisional infection (OR: 8.07, 95% CI: 1.98-32.81, P = 0.004). Dexamethasone administration was not associated with incisional infection. The development of POR was negatively associated with short-term survival (OR: 0.07, 95% CI: 0.03-0.17, P ≤ 0.001). Dexamethasone administration was not retained in the final multivariable model for survival. CONCLUSIONS: Intraoperative dexamethasone was not associated with the development of POR in this study population, nor did it have an effect on postoperative survival or incisional infection in horses undergoing surgical management of small intestinal disease.

The incidence of hypoxemia in dogs recovering from general anesthesia detected with pulse-oximetry and related risk factors.

The postoperative period is critical for the development of complications, including hypoxemia. To detect hypoxemia early and provide appropriate care, continuous monitoring of saturation is necessary: pulse oximetry is an easily accessible and simple method for this purpose. However, a SpO2 cut-off value to detect hypoxemia in dogs recovering from general anesthesia is lacking in the veterinary literature. The objectives of this clinical study are to validate the room air SpO2 test (SpAT), to identify a cut-off value to discriminate hypoxemia (Phase 1), and to apply the SpAT to study the incidence of transient postoperative hypoxemia (TPH) (Phase 2) in dogs with healthy lungs recovering from general anesthesia. Phase 1: 87 dogs recovering from general anesthesia with an arterial line were included. After extubation, SpAT was performed simultaneously with arterial blood sampling. A PaO2 < 80 mmHg was considered hypoxemia. Phase 2: 654 dogs were enrolled. They underwent general anesthesia with different ventilation settings for different procedures. After extubation, dogs were classified as hypoxemic if the SpO2 was lower than the cut-off obtained in phase 1. Phase 1 showed that the SpO2 cut-off is < 95% (sensitivity 100%, specificity 97.4%; area under the curve, AUC = 0.996; 95% Confidence Interval = 0.944-1; P<0.0001). In Phase 2, 169 dogs were hypoxemic. Body Condition Score (BCS) > 3/5, dorsal recumbency, FiO2 1, absence of Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP) had a significant odds ratio to induce TPH (5.8, 1.9, 3.7, 1.7, respectively). These results showed that SpO2 < 95% indicates PaO2 < 80 mmHg in dogs and TPH occurs in up to 28% of cases. Identification of associated risks could be useful to prevent and to increase awareness for monitoring and treatment.

Use of a novel three-dimensional anatomical plating system for treatment of caudal mandibular fractures in cats: 13 cases (2019-2023).

CASE SERIES SUMMARY: A total of 13 cases of cats with a caudal mandibular fracture treated with a novel surgical technique using the Ramus Anatomical Plate system were reviewed. Preoperative, immediate postoperative and a minimum of 8 weeks postoperative CT images were required as inclusion criteria. The outcome and complications were determined from clinical data and radiographic follow-up examinations. All cases achieved adequate anatomical reduction, resulting in a functional and atraumatic occlusion postoperatively. No intraoperative complications were reported. Time to voluntary food intake was in the range of 1-25 days. No evidence of disruptions to the implants or screw loosening was observed in the 8-week postoperative CT imaging, with radiographic evidence of complete osseous union in all fractures. The most common postoperative complication was swelling at the surgical site. Two cats had postoperative exophthalmos due to retrobulbar haemorrhage, and one cat exhibited partial wound dehiscence 5 days postoperatively, which resolved with medical management. Longer-term complications included intraoral plate exposure in one cat, which required plate removal 10 months postoperatively. RELEVANCE AND NOVEL INFORMATION: In this case series, rigid internal fixation of caudal mandibular fractures using the Ramus Anatomical Plate osteosynthesis system was associated with a minimal complication rate, and satisfactory radiographic and clinical outcomes. The reported outcomes of this novel technique are favourable when compared with previous techniques described for the management of these fracture types.

Dermoid cysts formation is a complication of wound pinch grafting in a horse: A case report.

OBJECTIVES: To describe dermoid cyst formation as an uncommon complication of the pinch grafting technique in horses. STUDY DESIGN: Case report. ANIMAL: A 8 year old Arabian gelding. METHODS: Clinical presentation, imaging, treatment, and histopathology records were reviewed. The horse originally presented due to delayed healing of a laceration to the distal aspect of the metatarsus. The wound was treated initially with debridement and it was allowed to fill with healthy granulation tissue prior to pinch grafting. Two months after grafting, the horse started to show self-mutilation behavior targeting the wound site. Ultrasonographic examination revealed the presence of cystic lesions in the subcutaneous tissue in the wound bed and adjacent to the long digital extensor tendon. RESULTS: Treatment involved surgical excision of the cysts, which resulted in a resolution of the self-mutilation episodes. The specimens were submitted for histopathological investigation, which revealed findings compatible with dermoid cyst formation, suspected to be secondary to the skin-grafting procedure. CONCLUSION: Dermoid cysts formation should be considered as a potential differential diagnosis for skin graft complications in horses.

Surgical treatment of feline intracranial meningiomas: a retrospective study of 26 cases.

BACKGROUND: Surgical excision is the treatment of choice for feline intracranial meningioma. OBJECTIVES: To report clinical findings, complications, and outcomes following surgery for feline intracranial meningioma. METHODS: Medical records (01/2000-01/2017) of cats that underwent surgical excision of an intracranial meningioma at our institution were reviewed. Patient data included signalment, clinical signs, surgical technique, complications, histopathologic diagnosis, survival time, and owners' answers to a satisfaction questionnaire. Survival was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. RESULTS: Twenty-six cats were included in this study. The exact cause of death was known in 17 cases and was not related to meningioma in 9/17 cases. Overall median survival time was 881 days (95% confidence interval 518; 1248). The age of the cat did not influence survival (p = 0.94) or the occurrence of complications (p = 0.051). Complications occurred in 13/24 cats, including dramatic complications in 4/24 cats. Most complications appeared in the first 24 hours post-surgery (12/13). Males had more postoperative complications (p = 0.042), including more seizures (p = 0.016). Cats with cranioplasty had fewer complications (p = 0.021). Clinical recurrence was confirmed in 3 out of 17 cats. Recurrence-free survival time was 826 days. Most owners (12/14) were satisfied with the outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Surgical treatment of intracranial meningioma in cats was associated with a long median survival time but also with a high rate of minor and major postoperative complications, including early postoperative seizures. Cranioplasty may reduce complications. Age at the time of surgery had no effect on outcomes.

Measuring tissue oxygen saturation in the orad intestinal segment during equine colic surgery may aid in predicting the occurrence of postoperative ileus.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the histological injury and intestinal microperfusion measured by laser Doppler flowmetry and spectrophotometry (LDFS) of the small intestine orad to a strangulation during colic surgery. ANIMALS: Horses with naturally occurring small intestinal strangulations undergoing colic surgery were included. METHODS: In this prospective clinical trial, intestinal tissue oxygen saturation (tSO2) and tissue blood flow (tBF) were measured by LDFS orad to the strangulation following release of the strangulation (n = 18). The number of horses with postoperative reflux (POR) and the cases that survived until discharge were compared between groups using Fisher's exact test (P < .05). Intestinal biopsies were taken in cases that underwent intestinal resection or intraoperative euthanasia (n = 28). Measurements were compared between injured and noninjured segments with a Mann-Whitney U or t test. RESULTS: The tSO2 and tBF of the orad intestine were lower than previously reported in healthy horses. Horses with low tSO2 of < 35% were significantly more likely to suffer from POR (6/6 cases) compared to cases with tSO2 > 69% (1/6). The number of horses that survived were not statistically different between these groups (2/6 and 6/6). All horses with mucosal injury developed POR (6/6), which was significantly more likely compared to horses without mucosal injury (3/13). No significant difference in tSO2 or tBF could be found between the segments with and without histological injury. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The results suggest that measuring tSO2 in the orad segment during colic surgery may aid in predicting postoperative issues.

Complications and outcomes of total hip arthroplasty in dogs with luxoid hip dysplasia: 18 cases (2010-2022).

OBJECTIVE: To describe the complications and outcomes in dogs with luxoid hip dysplasia (LH) undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) and compare complication rates with THA in non-LH dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Client-owned dogs (n = 217) undergoing primary THA (n = 238). METHODS: Medical records (2010-2022) of dogs undergoing THA were reviewed, and LH was defined as complete dorsal displacement of the femoral head from the acetabulum on lateral projection radiographs. Major or catastrophic complications, revisions, and outcomes were recorded for all dogs and they were compared between LH and non-LH groups. RESULTS: Eighteen cases met the subcriterion for the LH group and 220 cases met the subcriterion for inclusion in the non-LH group. There were 14 complications in 13/18 dogs with LH; seven were intraoperative (femoral fissure/fracture) and seven were postoperative (dorsal luxation, n = 5; femoral fracture, n = 1; acetabular cup septic loosening, n = 1). Revisions were performed for all LH dogs that encountered complications; satisfactory outcomes were achieved in 12/13 dogs. Overall, LH dogs had a higher risk of developing complications (p < .001), including intraoperative fracture (p < .001) and postoperative dorsal luxation (p = .019) when compared with non-LH dogs. CONCLUSION: Luxoid hip dysplasia was associated with a higher risk of major complications following THA in dogs, specifically intraoperative fissure/fracture and postoperative dorsal luxation. Despite the increased risk, revisions typically yielded satisfactory outcomes. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Luxoid hip dysplasia is an important risk factor for the development of major complications in dogs undergoing THA.

Surgical approach and presence of preoperative pleural effusion impact thoracostomy tube usage in dogs and cats following thoracic surgery for suspected neoplasia.

OBJECTIVE: To assess factors associated with increased pleural fluid and air evacuation, longer duration of thoracostomy tube usage, and longer hospitalization in dogs and cats following surgery for thoracic neoplasms. ANIMALS: 62 dogs and 10 cats. METHODS: Medical records were reviewed for dogs and cats undergoing thoracic surgeries between August 1, 2019, and June 30, 2023, for resection of suspected neoplasia in which a thoracostomy tube was placed. Data collected included patient signalment, type of procedure performed, histologic diagnosis of the primary mass removed, volume of fluid and air evacuated from the thoracostomy tube, and time in hospital. RESULTS: Median sternotomy was associated with increased total fluid evacuation (median, 12.1 mL/kg; IQR, 15.4 mL/kg; P = .012), whereas rib resection was associated with increased total air evacuation (median, 2.1 mL/kg; IQR, 13.6 mL/kg; P = .06). The presence of preoperative pleural effusion was associated with higher total fluid evacuation (20.6 mL/kg; IQR, 32.1 mL/kg; P = .009), longer duration with a thoracostomy tube in place (42.5 hours; IQR, 41.9 hours; P = .027), and longer hospitalization period (61 hours; IQR, 52.8 hours; P = .025). Cats had a thoracostomy tube in place for a longer time compared to dogs (median, 42.6 hours; IQR, 23.5 hours; P = .043). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Animals undergoing median sternotomy and rib resection may be expected to have higher fluid and air volumes, respectively, evacuated postoperatively. This often leads to an increased duration of thoracostomy tube usage and a longer period of hospitalization.

Histopathological diagnosis and surgical complications following bilateral anal sacculectomy for the treatment of unilateral canine apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma: 35 cases (2019-2023).

OBJECTIVES: To report the histopathological diagnosis of both anal sacs in dogs undergoing bilateral anal sacculectomy for the treatment of unilateral apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma and to compare the surgical complication rate associated with this procedure in this population with previously published literature. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Records were retrospectively reviewed for dogs that underwent bilateral anal sacculectomy for the treatment of apparently unilateral apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma, at a single institute between 2019 and 2023. Clinical staging, surgical treatment, histological findings, intra- and postoperative complications were evaluated. RESULTS: Thirty-five dogs were included. Only five of 35 (14%) dogs were found to have histologically normal contralateral anal sacs. Non-neoplastic anal sac disease was found in 23 of 35 (66%) dogs and bilateral apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma was seen in seven of 35 (20%) dogs. None of the dogs diagnosed with bilateral neoplasia had evidence of bilateral neoplasia before surgery despite a thorough work-up. Complications attributable to the primary tumour removal were seen in 9% of dogs intraoperatively and 14% of dogs postoperatively, commonly tumour capsule disruption and surgical site infection, respectively. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Bilateral anal sac disease was diagnosed histologically in the majority of presumed normal anal sacs, with 20% of cases being found to have bilateral apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma. The surgical complication rates of this cohort were comparable to those reported for unilateral anal sacculectomy alone. These findings promote and encourage the use of bilateral anal sacculectomy in cases of suspected unilateral anal sac neoplasia.

Description of postoperative complications and bacterial contamination of wound soaker catheters used to administer postoperative local analgesia after mastectomy in 11 dogs: case series.

Mastectomy is a common and painful procedure in dogs. Wound soaker catheters (WSC) are frequently used to reduce postoperative pain, including pain after mastectomy. The objectives of this case series were to describe the use of WSC for owner administration of postoperative local analgesia in dogs with mammary tumors treated surgically, to identify complications associated with WSC and to determine the frequency of bacterial colonization of the catheters. Twelve WSC were placed in 11 dogs during mastectomy surgery, left in place for three days, protected by a dressing and successfully managed by owners at home. No postoperative antibiotics were administered. No complications were identified in any cases. No bacterial growth was identified on bacteriological analysis of the twelve WSC. These results suggest that the use of WSC is a safe alternative for postoperative analgesia administration following mastectomy in dogs. Future studies comparing dogs with or without WSC with a larger number of dogs are needed to further evaluate efficacy and complications.