Comparison of the distraction index and Norberg angle with radiographic grading of canine hip dysplasia.

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) radiographic grading system stands as a well-established benchmark for categorizing hip dysplasia in canines. Although more objective techniques to quantify early hip laxity in young dogs, such as the Norberg angle (NA) and distraction index (DI), have been documented, there is a scarcity of published studies that directly compare these radiographic measures. The primary objectives of this prospective, analytical study were to assess and compare the NA and DI measures with OFA grades within a cohort of dogs. Thirty dogs (57 hip joints) were evaluated, with a mean age of 5.4 ± 2.9 years and a mean body weight of 34.3 ± 7.1 kg. The discriminative power of hip dysplasia for DI and NA used OFA as a reference were compared by multivariate discriminant analysis test. Using the DI (≤0.3) 12 joints were classified as normal, using NA (≥105°) 24 joints and using OFA (≤3) 29. When comparing the discriminant power of NA with OFA resulting similar (P = .8324) with correct classifications of 81% using cross validation, however, the discriminant power of dysplasia of the DI resulted significantly greater (P = .0034) than OFA with correct classifications of only 59% using cross-validation, consequently it was possible determined that of 29 patients with OFA ≤ 3, 20 had DI > 0.3. These findings demonstrated that phenotypic healthy dogs according to OFA grading can present passive hip joint laxity, as demonstrated by radiographic evaluation with distraction. Furthermore, DI can contribute to the screening of CHD when evaluated in conjunction with OFA grading.

B-mode ultrasonography and ARFI elastography of articular and peri-articular structures of the hip joint in non-dysplastic and dysplastic dogs as confirmed by radiographic examination.

BACKGROUND: Canine hip dysplasia is a common orthopedic disease in veterinary practice. The diagnosis is made by radiographic examinations that evaluate bone alterations associated with hip dysplasia. Although radiographic examination is the gold standard for diagnosis, it does not allow a detailed evaluation of soft tissues such as the joint capsule and periarticular muscles. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of B-mode ultrasonography and acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography in assessing the joint capsule and periarticular muscles of dogs using the Orthopedic Foundation of Animals (OFA) classification and the distraction index (DI) in the early and late diagnosis of hip dysplasia. This study sought to propose a protocol for the ultrasonographic evaluation of the structures involved in canine hip dysplasia. METHODS: Radiographic and ultrasonographic evaluations were performed on 108 hip joints of 54 dogs. Thirty dogs were older than 2 years and 24 were aged between 4 and 10 months. RESULTS: It was verified that an increase in pectineus muscle stiffness (cutoff value > 2.77 m/s) by elastography in some dysplastic dogs and an increase in the thickness of the joint capsule (cutoff value > 0.9 mm) in B-mode ultrasonography, were associated with a distraction index > 0.5, with both having a positive correlation. In B-mode ultrasonographic evaluation, the presence of signs of degenerative joint disease, such as irregularities of the cranial edge of the acetabulum and femoral head, were associated with a distraction index > 0.5 in canines, with a specificity of 94%. In adult dogs, the findings of degenerative joint disease on ultrasound were associated with a diseased OFA classification (P < 0.05). Measurement of the joint capsule > 1.10 mm was diagnostic for dysplasia in unhealthy dogs by OFA. CONCLUSIONS: ARFI elastography has shown that the pectineus muscle may experience changes in stiffness in dysplastic animals. Additionally, changes in joint capsule thickness can be identified in B-mode in young and adult dogs with dysplastic joints, which contributes to the diagnosis of hip dysplasia.

The Importance of Ultrasonography in the Evaluation of Mammary Tumors in Bitches.

The high incidence of mammary tumors in small animals is concerning. Patient history, clinical examination, physical evaluation, and imaging studies are important for clinical staging. Ultrasonography is commonly applied to investigate the presence of abdominal metastasis. However, it has been shown to provide important information regarding mammary tumors' architecture and advanced sonographic techniques can provide information regarding neovascularization, stiffness, and perfusion. Different techniques have been investigated to determine accuracy to predict the lesions' histological classification. This paper reviews the information regarding each sonographic technique in the evaluation of mammary tumors, describing the most common findings and their potential to accurately assess and predict malignancy. Even though the gold standard for the diagnosis of mammary lesions is the histopathological examination, some ultrasonographic features described can predict the potential of a lesion being malignant. Among the different sonographic techniques, elastography can be considered the most reliable modality to accurately differentiate benign from malignant tumors when malignant lesions present increased stiffness. However, the combination of all sonographic techniques can provide important information that can lead to a better therapeutic approach and clinical staging. Furthermore, the potential of the sonographic study, especially CEUS to monitor therapeutic progression, demonstrate the need of further studies.

Abdominal perfusion in canine patients with pyometra and sepsis evaluated by Doppler and contrast-enhanced ultrasound.

BACKGROUND: Sepsis is a condition characterized by organic dysfunction, leading to hemodynamic instability and high morbidity and mortality rates in humans and animals. Early identification of perfusion changes and appropriate management of sepsis are crucial for improving patient prognosis. Currently, the Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores are widely studied for sepsis identification and evaluation of organ dysfunction. However, these scores do not assess gastrointestinal involvement, which is common in this condition. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and Doppler have been considered promising diagnostic techniques for detecting changes in vascularization and microcirculation in a non-invasive and safe manner, particularly in the gastrointestinal system. This study aimed to evaluate duodenal perfusion using CEUS, as well as abdominal aortic and cranial mesenteric artery blood flow using Doppler ultrasound, and systolic arterial pressure (SAP) in 17 bitches with pyometra and in 10 healthy animals. RESULTS: The variables were compared between the pyometra and control groups, as well between patients with and without sepsis determined by the SOFA or SIRS scores. Pyometra was found to cause a reduction in abdominal aortic blood flow volume, aortic peak systolic velocity, and resistivity index as evaluated by Doppler ultrasound. Patients with sepsis according to the SOFA criteria only presented lower SAP. In contrast, sepsis animals identified by the SIRS score exhibited lower SAP, aortic peak systolic velocity, aortic blood flow volume, and aortic resistivity index and additionally, higher peak intensity of contrast in the duodenal wall. CONCLUSIONS: Pyometra causes a reduction in abdominal aortic blood flow, which is more pronounced in animals with sepsis identified by the SIRS criteria. These animals also exhibited a decrease in systolic blood pressure and an increase in duodenal perfusion, as evident by CEUS. However, these changes were not observed in patients with sepsis identified by the SOFA criteria. The alterations in intestinal perfusion observed in animals with sepsis indicate the presence of inflammation or dysfunction. In this regard, CEUS proves to be a valuable technique for detecting subtle changes in tissue hemodynamics that may not be apparent in conventional exams.

Characterization of uterine involution using B-mode ultrasonography, color Doppler and elastography (acoustic radiation force impulse) for assessing postpartum in Santa Inês ewes.

The aim of this study was to investigate uterine involution using ultrasonography techniques during postpartum. Postpartum ultrasonography evaluation (B-mode, color Doppler and Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse elastography) of the uterus was performed by transabdominal approach at immediate after birth and sequentially every 48 hours, during 30 days. The uterine echotexture did not present significant variations (P >0.05) being homogeneous in most evaluations; echogenicity of the uterus increased along the evaluation period (P =0.0452). Progressive and remarkable decrease of the total uterine diameter (UD) were observed (P <0.0001), especially during the first days postpartum. The thickness of uterine wall gradually decreased, as well the endometrial, myometrium and lumen diameters (P <0.0001). Uterine blood flow was assessed by Doppler and decreased during postpartum period, being significantly lower (P=0.0225) on the 30th day of postpartum. Uterine parenchyma presented as homogeneous dark areas (not deformable) on qualitative ultrasound elastography and the means shear velocity values of the uterine wall on quantitative elastography did not differ. This is the first study that evaluate the stiffness of uterine wall in healthy ewes, providing baseline data about quantitative and qualitative stiffness of the normal uterus, and it may be a useful tool for early diagnosis of uterine alterations during the postpartum period, using the reference parameter established for the assessment of uterine integrity during postpartum period.

Maternal and fetal ultrasonography, vulvar temperature and vaginal mucous impedance for the prediction of parturition in Saanen does.

The aim of this study was to evaluate and correlate modifications of vaginal mucous impedance, vulvar temperature and ultrasonographic measurements (echobiometric parameters) to parturition in pregnant Saanen does. 30 does were selected for the study and submitted to an estrus synchronization protocol and natural mating. The females were evaluated daily from Day 143 of pregnancy to parturition. For the sonographic evaluations, the following structures were measured: biparietal diameter, thoracic diameter, abdominal diameter, ocular orbit, kidney length, kidney height, cardiac area, placentome length, cervical measurement and fetal heart rate; by means of two different approaches: transrectal and transabdominal, using a 7.5 MHz linear transducer. The vaginal mucous impedance was assessed using an electric estrous detector and vulvar temperature was measured using a non-contact infrared thermometer. Statistical analysis was performed using the R-project software and the significance level was set at 5% for all tests. 25 Saanen does became pregnant, resulting in 80.33% pregnancy rate. Fetal heart rate was negatively correlated to the hours to parturition (p<0,001; r-Pearson= -0,451), as well as vaginal temperature (p= 0,001; r-Pearson= -0,275), while cervical thickness was positively correlated to hours to parturition (p<0,001; r-Pearson= 0,490). The echobiometric parameters (biparietal diameter, thoracic diameter, abdominal diameter, ocular orbit, kidney length and height, cardiac area, placentome length), as well as vaginal mucous impedance did not vary throughout the timepoints of evaluation and did not correlate to the moment of parturition. It was concluded that the parameters of fetal heartbeat, vaginal temperature and cervical effacement in the last week of pregnancy provide valuable information regarding the proximity of parturition.

Ultrasonography and elastography of the brain and cerebellum of English Bulldog fetuses.

The aim of this study was to evaluate B-mode ultrasonography and ARFI elastography of the central nervous system of canine fetuses as complementary methods to predict gestational age, monitor fetal development and establish standards. Ultrasound examinations were performed on 26 English Bulldog bitches at 34, 49 and 60 days of gestation. The circumference (C), area (A) and diameters of the short (D1) and long (D2) axis of the two cerebral hemispheres of the fetuses in cross-section were measured. Fetal cerebellum shape, echotexture, echogenicity, and transverse diameter (TCD) were evaluated in cross-section. Elastography was performed obtaining color elastograms and mean shear wave velocity (SWV m/s) of the fetal brain and cerebellar tissues. Ultrasound variables were correlated with gestational day (GD). Brain masses had a circular to oval shape, hyperechoic echogenicity, and homogeneous echotexture. C and D1 were the more accurate variables to predict gestational day, with the formulas: GD = 19.38 + 2,06∗C (R2 = 81%) and GD = 18.93 + 7.45∗D1 (R2 = 82%). Cerebellum had a "banana" shape, with hyperechogenic edges, hypoechoic echogenicity, and homogeneous echotexture. The TCD (P = 0.0001) and cerebellar stiffness (P = 0.0006) were greater at 60 days than at 49 days of gestation. The brain mass SWV was correlated positively with GD (P = 0.0001) and showed a gradual increase (P = 0.0001) in the three gestational timepoints evaluated. According to qualitative elastography, both brain mass and cerebellum became more rigid over the course of gestational days. It was possible to verify the development of the brain and cerebellum of canine fetuses during pregnancy by ultrasonographic characteristics and B-mode dimensions, as well as by evaluating the elasticity of these tissues through elastography. These unpublished findings allow a better follow-up of the central nervous system development in the prenatal period and may help in future studies with canine fetuses that present cerebral and cerebellar abnormalities.

Ovarian contrast-enhanced ultrasonography and Doppler fluxometry in bitches during the postovulatory estrus and corpora lutea formation.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the vascularization features of canine ovaries during the follicular phase and the formation of the corpora lutea by using Doppler ultrasonography and Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS). Eight healthy bitches were enrolled in the study and were evaluated at five different timepoints (T1 - T5) of the estrous cycle established by vaginal cytology and serum progesterone concentration. Ultrasonographic examinations were performed by a single operator using the ACUSON S2000/SIEMENS machine equipped with a linear multifrequency transducer (9.0 MHz). Color-coded Doppler evaluation of the ovarian parenchyma was performed to investigate the aspects of the signal detection throughout the different timepoints. Pulsed-wave Doppler of the intraovarian arteries was performed to evaluate spectral waveform and doppler velocimetric parameters of Systolic Peak Velocity (SPV cm/s), End Diastolic Velocity (EDV cm/s), Resistivity Index (RI) and Pulsatility Index (PI). CEUS evaluation of the ovaries was performed using a vascular contrast agent (SonoVue®, Bracco, Sao Paulo, Brazil) and the CADENCE™ Contrast Pulse Sequencing (CPS, Siemens) software, in order to perform both qualitative and quantitative analysis. Perfusion parameters of pixel number, peak intensity (PPI in %), time to peak intensity (TTP in s), mean transit time (MTT in s) and area under the curve (AUC in %). Colour-coded Doppler evaluation demonstrated an increase in signal detection as cycle progressed, with blood flow initially detected with few coloured pixels and mainly at the ventral surface of the ovaries. Further on, the number of coloured pixels increased and spreading to the central region, resulting in a circular-like pattern around the corpora hemorrhagica. The spectral waveform was consistent at all timepoints. SPV (cm/s) and EDV (cm/s) presented a numeric trend and a slight statistical difference at all timepoints, whereas no difference was found for RI and PI. CEUS evaluation demonstrated an increase in pixel intensity across all the timepoints. Quantitative CEUS analysis revealed a statistical difference in PPI (%), MTT (s) and AUC (%) at T5. CEUS evaluation of the ovaries was feasible and demonstrated a marked increase in perfusion parameters in the late postovulatory period, demonstrating its applicability in the assessment of canine corpora lutea development.

Doppler sonography of the umbilical and uterine arteries blood flow of pregnant Saanen goats.

The objective was to evaluate the blood flow of the uterine artery (UA) and umbilical artery (UMB) in the physiological pregnancy of goats by means of Doppler throughout the gestational period. Twenty-five Saanen goats weighing 55 ± 10 kg and aged between 2 and 5 were evaluated weekly, from the 21st until the 143rd day of gestation, and daily from that period until parturition. Values for peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV) and resistance (RI) and pulsatility (PI) indices of the uterine and umbilical arteries were determined. The values obtained were correlated with gestational age by Spearman's test, tested for adjustment to regression models and compared with the number of fetuses by ANOVA. The umbilical cord was first visualized at 28 days. Of the variables evaluated, RIUMB and PIUMB correlated with gestational age (p<0.001; and 0.046; respectively) and RIUMB had a low negative correlation with the number of fetuses per pregnancy (p = 0.003; r- Spearman = - 0.218). PSVUMB and EDVUMB values did not correlate with gestational age (p=0.737 and 0.768, respectively), but there was a decrease in the mean values throughout pregnancy (PSVUMB= 0.07; 0.31 and EDVUMB= 0.01; 0.06) as well as the change in the flow pattern of the spectral trace. The mean values of the uterine artery dopplervelocimetric variables PSVUT, EDVUT, PIUT and RIUT did not correlate with gestational age (p= 0.324; 0.372, 0.143; 0.13; respectively). It is expected that the results obtained will contribute to a broader understanding of the hemodynamic changes resulting from pregnancy in goats.

Applicability of ARFI elastography in detecting elasticity changes of the equine superficial digital flexor tendon with induced injury.

The objectives of this prospective, experimental study were to describe changes in the stiffness of the equine superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) after induced injury, deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT), accessory ligament (AL-DDFT), and suspensory ligament (SL) during 90 days of healing using acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography. Eight healthy horses were selected. Preinjury B mode and ARFI evaluations were performed bilaterally in the palmar metacarpal region. Injury was induced only on the left forelimb (G2) by a single injection of collagenase in SDFT, 15 cm distal to the accessory carpal bone. The right forelimb was used as a control (G1). Evaluations were performed at eight timepoints: one before injury (T0) and seven (T1-T7) after injury (3, 15, 30, 40, 60, 75, and 90 days post-induction). Tendinopathies were visualized as hypoechoic areas with loss of parallel tendon fiber pattern. Injured SDFTs presented mainly cool colors (soft) from T1 to T3, and from T4, there was an increase in warm colors (hard), close to the appearance of tendons of G1. In the first four timepoints, there was a decrease in stiffness compared to G1 (P < 0.001). On T1 and T2, a cutoff value <6.21 m/s to determine tendinopathy of the SDFT was established (75.8% sensitivity and 92.03% specificity). Stiffness changes in the DDFT, AL-DDFT, and SL of injured limbs occurred at different timepoints. Tendinopathy significantly altered the stiffness of the injured tendon and the adjacent tissues. ARFI made it possible to detect these changes, helping to monitor the reparation of this injury.

Radiographic study of the axial and appendicular skeleton of Callithrix jacchus and Callithrix penicillata.

BACKGROUND: Marmosets are small arboreal primates. Knowledge of normal radiographic parameters and frequent disorders is limited. The objectives of this study were to evaluate possible variations between quantitative analyses and injuries to the appendicular and axial skeleton of Callithrix jacchus and Callithrix penicillata and their relationship with the environment. METHODS: Radiographic images of 29 marmosets were used. Skeletal lesions were described, long bones were measured, and pelvimetry, vertebrae, and sternebras were counted. RESULTS: Measurements of long bones and pelvimetry were similar between species. Evaluation of vertebrae and sternebras exhibited variations relative to the literature. Lesions on the skull, spine, thoracic and pelvic limbs were present in 48%, 54%, 44%, and 52% of marmosets, respectively. CONCLUSION: Skeletal disorders, especially of traumatic and metabolic origin, have a high prevalence in marmosets.

Comparação da pressão arterial mensurada pelos métodos oscilométrico ou invasivo em ovinos e caprinos / Comparison of blood pressure measured by oscillometric or invasive methods in sheep and goats / Comparación de la presión arterial medida por métodos oscilométricos o invasivos en ovinos y caprinos

Resumo A pressão arterial é um parâmetro indispensável na monitorização anestésica. A mensuração da pressão artéria invasiva (iPA) mediante cateterização arterial periférica é confiável, mas requer experiência e pode desencadear complicações. A técnica oscilométrica não é invasiva (NiPA), só requer um manguito sobre uma artéria periférica e a mensuração é automatizada. Não obstante a acurácia da NiPA tem sido pouco explorada e, por tal motivo, este estudo objetivou comparar esta técnica com a iPA em ovelhas e cabras. Foram utilizadas 20 ovelhas e 20 cabras que seriam submetidas a laparoscopia sob anestesia geral. Uma vez em plano anestésico, foi cateterizada a artéria auricular caudal e conectada a um transdutor eletrônico de pressão acoplado a monitor multiparamétrico para mensuração da iPA, sistólica (S), diastólica (D) e média (M). Ao mesmo tempo um manguito de tamanho apropriado foi posicionado sobre a artéria radial e conectado ao mesmo monitor. A cada 5 minutos foram registradas as pressões arteriais por ambos os métodos, posteriormente, comparadas pelo teste Student, correlacionados pelo Pearson e avaliada a concordância pelo Bland-Altman. Nas ovelhas, a PAD foi semelhante e correlacionada entre NiPA e iPA (P=0,69; r=0,65; viés 0,7 ± 13,1 mmHg), já a PAS e PAM foram superestimadas pela NiPA. Em Cabras, a PAM resultou semelhante e correlacionada entre NiPA e iPA (P=0,566; r=0,57; viés 2,4 ± 20,2 mmHg), enquanto PAS foi superestimada e PAD subestimada. Conclui-se que, em ovelhas apenas a PAD e em cabras a PAM, mensuradas pelo método oscilométrico, são alternativas acuradas, factíveis e confiáveis para a monitoração anestésica da pressão arterial.

Abstract Blood pressure is an indispensable parameter in anesthetic monitoring. The measurement of invasive artery pressure (IBP) using peripheral arterial catheterization is reliable but requires experience and can lead to complications. The oscillometric technique is non-invasive (NIBP), it only requires a cuff over a peripheral artery and the measurement is automated. However, the accuracy of PANI has been little explored and, for this reason, this study aimed to compare this technique with PAI in sheep and goats. 20 sheep and 20 goats needed laparoscopy were used under general anesthesia. Once in anesthetic plane, the caudal auricular artery was catheterized and connected to an electronic pressure transducer, coupled to a multiparameter monitor to measure IBP, systolic (S), diastolic (D) and mean (M). At the same time, an appropriately sized cuff was placed over radial artery and connected to the same monitor. Every 5 minutes, blood pressures were recorded by both methods, subsequently compared by the Student test, correlated by Pearson and agreement assessed by the Bland-Altman. In sheep, DBP was similar and correlated between NIBP and IBP (P=0.69; r=0.65; bias 0.7 ± 13.1 mmHg), whereas SBP and MBP were overestimated by NIBP. In goats, MAP was similar and correlated between NIBP and IBP (P=0.566; r=0.57; bias 2.4 ± 20.2 mmHg), while SBP was overestimated and DBP underestimated. It is concluded that, in sheep only DBP and in goats, MBP, measured by the oscillometric method, are accurate, feasible and reliable alternatives for anesthetic monitoring of blood pressure.

Resumen La presión arterial es un parámetro indispensable en la monitorización anestésica. La medición de la presión arterial invasiva (PAI) mediante cateterismo arterial periférico es fiable, requiere experiencia y puede dar complicaciones. La técnica oscilométrica no es invasiva (PANI), requiere un manguito sobre una arteria periférica y medición automatizada. No obstante, la precisión de PANI ha sido poco explorada, por esta razón, este estudio tuvo por objetivo comparar esta técnica con la PAI en ovinos y caprinos. Se utilizaron 20 ovejas y 20 cabras que requerían laparoscopia bajo anestesia general. Una vez en plano anestésico, se cateterizó la arteria auricular caudal y se conectó a transductor de presión electrónico acoplado a monitor multiparamétrico para medir la PAI, sistólica (S), diastólica (D) y media (M). Al mismo tiempo, se colocó un manguito de tamaño adecuado sobre la arteria radial y se conectó al mismo monitor. Cada 5 minutos se registraron las presiones por ambos métodos, posteriormente se compraron por test de Student, correlacionaron por Pearson y se evaluó concordancia por Bland-Altman. En ovejas, la PAD fue similar y se correlacionó entre PANI y PAI (P=0,69; r=0,65; sesgo 0,7 ± 13,1 mmHg), mientras que PAS y MAP fueron sobreestimadas por PANI. En Cabras, la PAM fue similar y se correlacionó entre PANI y PAI (P=0,566; r=0,57; sesgo 2,4 ± 20,2 mmHg), mientras PAS se sobreestimó y PAD se subestimó. Se concluye que, en ovinos solo PAD y en caprinos PAM, medidas por el método oscilométrico son alternativas precisas, factibles y confiables para el monitoreo anestésico de la presión arterial.

Accuracy of B-mode ultrasound and ARFI elastography in predicting malignancy of canine splenic lesions.

The objective was to evaluate the accuracy of B-mode ultrasonography and ARFI elastography in detecting malignancy in canine splenic lesions. Thirty-seven spleens with abnormalities (16 benign and 21 malignant) from dogs of different breeds and ages were evaluated. Echogenicity, echotexture, organ length and height were evaluated using B-mode. By ARFI elastography, tissue stiffness was evaluated qualitatively (elastogram) and quantitatively (measuring the shear wave velocity-SWV). Lesions were classified as diffuse, focal or multifocal (cranial, medial or caudal portion) and comparisons of the SWV between the injured and non-injured areas were performed. In the B-mode, no features were associated to malignancy (P > 0.05). In the elastogram, 35 spleens were non-deformable and 2 deformable, having no association with malignancy. The greater SWV was observed in malignant lesions (3.4 ± 0.6 m/s), followed by areas free from alterations (2.1 ± 0.3 m/s) and benign lesions (1.7 ± 0.5 m/s), with difference between groups (P < 0.0001). It was found that a SWV > 2.6 m/s indicates malignancy of canine splenic lesions (sensitivity of 95%, specificity of 100%, PPV of 100%, NPV of 94% and accuracy of 97%), concluding that ARFI elastography is a promising technique for differentiating malignancy in these lesions.

Malignancy prediction of cutaneous and subcutaneous neoplasms in canines using B-mode ultrasonography, Doppler, and ARFI elastography.

BACKGROUND: Cutaneous and subcutaneous neoplasms are highly prevalent in dogs, ranging from benign to highly aggressive and metastatic lesions. The diagnosis is obtained through histopathology, however it is an invasive technique that may take a long time to obtain the result, delaying the beginning of the adequate treatment. Thus, there is a need for non-invasive tests that can help in the early diagnosis of this type of cancer. The aim of this study was to verify the accuracy of B-mode ultrasonography, Doppler, and ARFI elastography to predict malignancy in cutaneous and subcutaneous canine neoplasms. In addition, we aim to propose an ultrasonography evaluation protocol and perform the neoplasms characterization using these three proposed techniques. RESULTS: Twenty-one types of specific neoplasm were diagnosed, and using B-mode, we verified the association between heterogeneous echotexture, invasiveness, presence of hyperechoic spots, and cavity areas with malignancy. An increased pulsatility was verified in malignant neoplasms using Doppler (cut-off value > 0.93). When using the elastography, malignancy was associated with non-deformable tissues and shear wave velocity > 3.52 m/s. Evaluation protocols were proposed associating 4, 5, 6, or 7 malignancy predictive characteristics, and characterization was done for all tumors with at least two cases. CONCLUSIONS: We concluded that ultrasonography methods are promising and effective in predicting malignancy in these types of tumors, and the association of methods can increase the specificity of the results.

Ultrasonography of the nuchal translucency of healthy and abnormal English Bulldog fetuses.

The aim of this study was to measure the nuchal translucency (NT) of canine fetuses to establish reference values ​​for healthy gestational processes and to verify its effectiveness in the diagnosis of congenital abnormalities. On day 34 of gestation, the NT of three fetuses from each of the 26 English bulldog female dogs was measured. The first fetus was the one located immediately cranial to the bladder, the second was selected from the left side of the abdomen, and the third from the right side. The reference values for healthy animals were offset using descriptive statistics. The diagnostic ability of the test to identify fetal malformations was studied using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Of the 26 litters, only 18 had healthy fetuses, 4 had fetuses with anasarca, 3 had fetuses with abdominal wall defects, and 1 had both types of abnormalities. The NT was higher in canine fetuses that presented anasarca in the litter than in normal litters (1.8 ± 0.77 mm vs. 1.4 ± 0.48 mm; P = 0.0249), with a cut-off value of NT > 1.45 mm (sensitivity = 61.54%, specificity = 70.18%). NT greater than 1.45 mm seems to be a diagnostic tool for the identification of anasarca during gestation of bulldogs. Considering the unprecedented use of this parameter in canine species and the limitations found during the study, further studies will be needed in order to use it on clinical practice.

Ultrasonographic assessment of renal perfusion in bitches with mammary carcinoma treated with long-term carprofen.

The aim of this study was to evaluate renal hemodynamics, routine clinical and laboratory parameters used to estimate renal function, and clinical evolution during six months in bitches with mammary carcinomas that underwent mastectomy and were treated (TG) or not (CG) with carprofen for three months after surgery. Twenty-six bitches with mammary carcinoma were equally distributed into TG that received carprofen 4.4 mg/kg/day for 90 days and CG that did not receive anti-inflammatory medication. Renal artery Doppler flowmetry, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) of renal parenchyma, haematological, biochemical and clinical analyses were obtained once a month. These data were compared between groups and time via analysis of variance (ANOVA) in a completely randomized design with repeated measures (P < 0.05). On B-mode ultrasound, the area of the renal artery was greater (P = 0.0003) in the TG. Regarding laboratory findings, haematocrit and haemoglobin were similar in both groups, showing a significant and gradual increase after three months of treatment; MCV, MHC, and MCHC were increased (P < 0.05) and lymphocyte and band counts decreased (P < 0.05) in the TG. Regarding biochemical tests, ALT was the only parameter with a significant difference, being higher (P = 0.0272) in the treated group. It can be concluded that the use of carprofen for 90 days causes minimal changes in renal perfusion, erythrocyte parameters and ALT activity, and reduces the proportion of blood inflammatory cells. Therefore, use of this medication can be carried out safely in patients who require auxiliary cancer treatment.

High-definition ultrasonography in the evaluation of the reproductive tract of bitches during the follicular phase of the estrous cycle.

The aim was to sonographically evaluate the reproductive tract of bitches during the follicular phase of the estrous cycle using High Density (HD) ultrasonic techniques. Females (n = 8) were evaluated at five different times throughout the follicular phase, as determined by vaginal cytology and blood progesterone concentrations. Ultrasonic exams were performed using the ACUSON S2000/SIEMENS device utilizing a multifrequency HD transducer (5.5-18 MHz). Videos of the ovaries were obtained and recordings were evaluated using a DICOM viewer software for counting and measuring the ovarian structures, which were assigned to groups based on diameter in mm: G1: ≤ 1; G2: from 1.01 to 3.5; G3 from 3.51 to 5.5; G4: from 5.51 to 10. There was a greater uterine thickness with the progression of the follicular phase (P < 0.05). Six distinct regions were identified in the uterine wall. The ovarian dimensions increased (P < 0.05) as stage of the follicular phase advanced. There was fluid detected around the ovaries after ovulation. There was a characteristic fat tissue hyperechogenicity around the ovaries at all timepoints. There was a difference in the number of ovarian structures of each dimension group at each time there were assessments (P < 0.05). There was a difference in diameter of the largest ovarian structure and in average value of wall thickness at all timepoints when there were evaluations (P < 0.05). The HD ultrasonography technique provides for excellent image resolution, allowing for a more precise characterization of the bitch's reproductive structures and changes occurring during the follicular phase of the estrous cycle.

B-mode ultrasound and ecobiometric parameters to assess embryonic and fetal development and estimate gestational age in goats.

The aim of this study was to monitor maternal-fetal ecobiometric parameters during physiological pregnancy in goats using ultrasound to predict gestational age by establishing mathematical equations. Twenty-five Saanen goats were included in the study. Assessments were performed weekly from the 21st day of pregnancy until parturition. The abdominal, thoracic, biparietal, and eye socket diameters; distance from the neck to snout; crown-rump, humerus, radius-ulna, metacarpal, femur, tibia, metatarsal, and placentome lengths; kidney height and length; and heart area were measured. Heart rate was obtained using the pulsed Doppler mode. The variables were correlated with gestational age using Spearman's test, and the adjustment of these variables to simple and multiple regression models was done to determine the mathematical formulas for calculating the gestational age. The highest obtained coefficients of determination (R2) were for humerus length (96.2), heart area (95.6), and distance from the neck to the snout (95.3). Only the placentome length and fetal heart rate presented low determination coefficients (R2 = 54.3, R2 = 45.0). The results indicated significant correlations between measures of maternal-fetal structures and gestational age, and can be used as reference values for detection of abnormalities during fetal development.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound evaluation of placental perfusion in brachicephalic bitches.

The present study aimed to investigate placental hemodynamics to determine quantitative and qualitative parameters for pregnant brachycephalic bitches as well as describe placental vascularization and perfusion in females with fetal abnormalities close to delivery. Forty-four healthy fetuses from 22 brachycephalic bitches and 9 fetuses with gestational abnormalities (anasarca and hydrocephalus) from 8 brachycephalic bitches were evaluated. All female dogs were artificially inseminated intravaginally and underwent cesarean section at the end of gestation. Pregnancy diagnosis was made on the 25th day and experimental evaluations were performed on Days 25 (M1), 45 (M2), and 58 (M3) of gestation in normal pregnancies. Fetuses with gestational abnormalities were evaluated at the last time point. Biometric values of the fetuses were determined by B-mode and vascular indices by Doppler fluxometry of the umbilical artery, whereas qualitative assessment of contrast filling and quantitative parameters of placental perfusion were performed using CEUS. Parameter comparisons among the examined fetuses (normal and abnormal) and between the moments (M1, M2, and M3) were performed by Student's t-test and ANOVA tests, and then correlated using the Spearman test. In healthy fetuses, systolic and diastolic velocities as well as the time averages of minimum and maximum velocities increased significantly from M2 to M3 (P < 0.05), whereas the pulsatility index (P < 0.043) and vascular resistance (P < 0.001) decreased. Contrast distribution was always homogeneous in placental tissues and CEUS filling parameters remained constant during the evaluated periods (P < 0.05). In fetuses with hydrops, Doppler values were similar to those obtained in healthy subjects (P > 0.05), but CEUS evaluation demonstrated a heterogeneous distribution with lower intensity of placental tissue filling and a delay in perfusion time (P < 0.05) with a diagnostic accuracy of 75%. The association of dopplerfluxometry and CEUS allowed evaluation of qualitative and quantitative parameters of physiological pregnancy hemodynamics in all gestational thirds without evidence of significant changes in the physiology of the maternal-fetal binomial, and CEUS was shown to be applicable in the detection of failures in placental vascular filling (tissue dysfunction) in fetuses with anasarca and hydrocephaly.

Assessment of dopperfluxometric indices of maternal-fetal structures in pregnant ewes.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the blood flow of the uterine artery, fetal aorta and umbilical artery in the physiological pregnancy of sheep by means of pulsed Doppler throughout the gestational period. Thirty Santa Inês ewes weighing between 45.4±4.3 kg and aged 2 to 5 years were selected. The evaluations were carried out weekly from the 3rd to the 21st gestational week. Peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV) and resistance index (RI) were obtained. Analysis of variance was performed, and the minimum significant comparison of means was obtained by the BH test with adjusted P<0.05. The results were expressed as mean ± standard error. For the fetal aorta, there was an increase in the EDV values and a decrease in the PSV and RI throughout pregnancy. For the uterine artery, PSV and EDV did not present significant variation, whereas the RI showed a reduction in the last week. Increased EDV values were found for the umbilical artery throughout pregnancy. For the PSV there was no significant difference, as the RI was reduced at the end of pregnancy. The results obtained are expected to contribute to a more complete understanding of the hemodynamic changes resulting from pregnancy.