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.

In vivo embryo development in bitches inseminated laparoscopically after ovulation time estimated based on a single progesterone determination.

Logistic and economical limitations are often the causes of dog owners not accurately monitoring the estrous cycle and the optimal insemination time. The aim of this study was to evaluate in vivo early embryonic development in bitches, after the analysis of sequential vaginal cytologies associated to single progesterone measurement and single laparoscopic insemination with high quality semen (fresh and with high spermatozoa concentration) or low-quality semen (frozen/thawed and with low spermatozoa concentration) at 48 h post- ovulation time predicted on a single progesterone measurement. Ten bitches were inseminated with 250 x 106 fresh spermatozoa (80% motility), and ten with 80 x 106 frozen/thawed spermatozoa (60% motility) in the cranial part of each uterine horn. Seven days later, ovariohysterectomy was performed and the oviducts and uterine horns and body were flushed to recover embryos and unfertilized oocytes. In 80% of the bitches inseminated with fresh and 50% of bitches inseminated with frozen/thawed semen, embryos at 2 to 8 cells stage were recovered mostly from the, oviducts. This study indicates that pregnancies can be obtained with a single laparoscopic intrauterine insemination after single serum progesterone measurement, although with a low number of embryos. This result should be taken into account in case economic or logistic restrictions that affect the possibility of owners to plan an accurate monitoring of the optimal breeding time using fresh and frozen semen.

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.

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.

Ultrasonography-guided oocyte recovery in owl monkeys (aotus azarai infulatus).

The study evaluated an echo-guided oocyte recovery technique in owl monkeys. Twelve females were selected for the transabdominal ovum retrieval technique. This procedure collected twenty-six follicles, of which nine oocytes were recovered, without harm to the animals. The technique is feasible and is a minimally invasive protocol for neotropical primates.

Quantitative ultrasound elastography and biometry of the bitch uterus in the early puerperium after vaginal delivery and caesarean section.

Elastography is an actual imaging method used to qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate the elastic properties of tissues. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare uterine tissue biometry and stiffness during post-partum period in brachycephalic bitches (n = 12) after c-section (GCS; n = 8) or normal delivery (GNB; n = 4). These animals were evaluated daily by abdominal ultrasound from the day of delivery until the 10th day post-partum; measuring uterine diameter, myometrial and endometrial thickness (mm) and shear wave velocity (SWV; m/s), by B-mode and ARFI (acoustic radiation force impulse) elastography, respectively. Uterine diameter was higher (p = .012) in animals submitted to c-section (15.26 ± 4.73 mm) than in normal birth (12.53 ± 2.64 mm) during the first 7 days post-partum. Uterine thickness gradually involuted in both groups (p < .0001), the myometrium during the first 9 days (p = .005) and the endometrium during the first 6 days (p = .003). The myometrial and endometrial SWVs were similar between types of delivery (p = .7846 and .8273) and presented a gradual increase (p = .411; .0043, respectively), during the first 10 days post-partum. It was concluded that bitches with normal delivery had smaller uterine thickness and faster puerperal involution than submitted to c-section, while uterine tissue stiffness was similar between delivery types and increased gradually during post-partum.

Ovum pick-up and in vitro maturation in spotted paca (Cuniculus paca-Linnaeus, 1766).

We tested FSHp, eCG and FSHp + eCG to establish ovum pick-up (OPU) and in vitro maturation method in spotted paca. Eight healthy adult females were subjected to each of four treatments to stimulate ovarian follicular growth. All females were subjected to a hormonal protocol using a single dose of 45 mg of injectable progesterone and single intramuscular injection of 0.075 mg d-cloprostenol on day 6. Ovarian stimulation was carried out as follows: in Group TFE (FSHp and eCG), animals were treated with a single dose of 80 mg of FSHp and 200 IU of eCG intramuscularly on day 6 after the application of progesterone; in Group TF (FSHp), they were treated with a single dose of 80 mg of FSHp intramuscularly on day 6 after application of progesterone; in Group treatment eCG, they were treated with 200 IU of eCG intramuscularly on day 6 after application of progesterone; and in Group TC (saline solution), 1 ml of saline solution was administered to control does. The OPU was performed between 22 and 26 hr after gonadotropin treatments. All recovered oocytes were placed into maturation media and incubated for 24 hr. There were no differences among the mean number of observed follicles, aspirated follicles and oocytes recovered per treatment. Oocyte maturation rates did not differ among groups, except, TF and treatment eCG oocytes had greater maturation rates than TC oocytes. In this study, gonadotropin administration failed to superovulate treated does and increase oocyte retrieval efficiency. Despite the feasibility of the procedure, further studies are needed to develop and refine hormonal protocols for oocyte recovery and in vitro maturation in this species.

Are the spectral Doppler indices of ovarian arteries indicative of antral follicular development and predictive of ovulatory responses and embryo yields in superovulated ewes?

Nineteen ewes received 200 mg of pFSH administered in eight decreasing doses from Days 1 to 4, starting three days before CIDR® device removal. Ten ewes received an injection of 350 µg of estradiol benzoate at CIDR® device insertion (Group E) and nine animals served as controls (Group C). B-mode and spectral Doppler ultrasonographic examinations were performed daily throughout superovulatory treatment to enumerate ovarian antral follicles and to determine ovarian blood flow indices, respectively. There were no differences (P > 0.05) in superovulatory responses between left and right ovaries/uterine horns or the two groups of animals. End-diastolic velocity (EDV) and mean velocity (Vm) values were greater (P < 0.05) on Days 1 and 2, and peak systolic velocity (SVp) was greater (P < 0.05) on Day 3 in Group C than in Group E. In Group E 15 correlations was recorded among indices (SVp, Vm, EDV, flow velocity integral-FVI, and pulsatility index-PI) and follicles numbers in different size classes on Days 1, 2 and 4, and seven correlations among indices (SVp, EDV, Vm, and vascular resistance index-RI) and superovulatory/embryo results (numbers of regressing corpora lutea, numbers/percentages of degenerated embryos and viability rates) on Days 1, 2 and 3. In Group C, there were three correlations among EDV and RI and medium-sized/large follicle numbers on Days 1 and 3, and five correlations among indices (EDV, RI and PI) and superovulatory/embryo results (numbers of luteinized unovulated follicles, degenerated embryos and unfertilized eggs) on Days 2 or 4. There was a lack of consistency in the velocimetric correlates of antral follicle numbers and superovulatory responses between the left and right side. Therefore, the usefulness of ovarian arterial indices to predict ovine superovulatory outcomes remains equivocal and requires further confirmatory studies.

Follicular dynamics and in vivo embryo production in Santa Inês ewes treated with smaller doses of pFSH.

To evaluate follicular dynamics, there was assessment of superovulatory response and in vivo embryo production in ewes treated with relatively smaller doses of exogenous pFSH than typically used in combination with a dose of eCG at the beginning of the gonadotropin treatment period. Santa Inês ewes (n = 24) were randomly divided into three groups, based on mg dose of pFSH administered: G200 (n = 8), G133 (n = 8) and G100 (n = 8) in eight decreasing doses at 12 -h intervals. All ewes were treated with 300 IU of eCG concomitantly starting with first pFSH administration. Ovulatory follicular dynamics and follicular wall vascularization (FWV) were evaluated using a B-mode and color Doppler ultrasonic machine, respectively. Superovulatory response and embryo production were evaluated 6 days after estrous detection. In the G200 group, the preovulatory follicle size (PFS) were less (P <  0.05), ovulation time later (P <  0.05), and PFS rate greater (P <  0.05); while in the G100 group ovulation rate, and number and percentage of unfertilized eggs were greater (P <  0.05) than in the G133 group (P <  0.05). Number and percentage of viable embryos were greater in the G200 and G100 compared to G133 group (P <  0.05). The dose of 100 mg of FSH was as efficacious as the traditional dose of 200 mg, in combination with a dose of eCG, for superovulatory response and viable embryo production but there was a greater percentage of unfertilized eggs with this treatment.

Single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILSTM) using an umbilical hernial approach for cryptorchidectomy of a degenerated testis in a dog / Aplicação do portal único (SILSTM) por acesso herniário umbilical para criptorquidectomia de testículo degenerado em cão

ABSTRACT: SILSTM via an umbilical hernia opening was used in the correction of an abdominal cryptorchidism in a dog. The SILSTMport was inserted through a 2.5 cm skin incision on the umbilical hernia and pneumoperitoneum was established with CO2. A 10mm telescope, 5mm laparoscopic Babcock clamp, and a clamp with combined cutting and coagulation features were used for the dissection and removal of the testicle through the SILSTM port. The treatment proved to be effective, easy, and quick to perform. However, the lack of triangulation between clamps and telescope limited the movement of the instruments, making it more laborious than a multiple-trocar approach. It can be concluded that the use of a SILSTM port through a pre-existing opening of the abdominal wall enables a reduction of the risks associated with multiple incisions; such as injury and manipulation of internal organs, pain, bleeding, and development of new hernias.

RESUMO: Objetivou-se proceder um tratamento para um caso de criptorquidismo canino, utilizando-se abordagem laparoscópica com portal único SILSTM, por meio de acesso abdominal via abertura de hérnia umbilical. Realizou-se uma incisão de 2,5 cm da pele em cima da hérnia umbilical, por onde introduziu-se trocater SILSTM, seguido do estabelecimento do pneumoperitônio com CO2. Utilizou-se ótica de 10mm, pinça laparoscópica de apreensão tipo Babcock de 5mm e pinça com corte e coagulação simultâneos para liberação e retirada do testículo e do trocater SILSTM, pelo acesso herniário. O tratamento proposto mostrou-se efetivo, de execução relativamente fácil e rápida. Entretanto, a ausência de triangulação entre as pinças e a óptica resultou em maior limitação na movimentação dos instrumentais, em comparação ao procedimento realizado com utilização de múltiplos portais. Pode-se concluir que a utilização do trocater SILSTM em uma falha pré-existente da parede abdominal possibilita significativa redução dos riscos potenciais de múltiplas incisões, como lesão de órgãos internos, manipulação, dor, sangramento e formação de novas hérnias.

Ultrasonography for lymph nodes metastasis identification in bitches with mammary neoplasms.

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the diagnostic accuracy of B-mode, Doppler ultrasonography and Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) elastography in the identification of axillary and inguinal lymph nodes metastasis in bitches with mammary neoplasms. The axillary (n = 96) and inguinal (n = 100) lymph nodes of 100 bitches were evaluated using B-Mode, Colour Doppler and ARFI-elastography. After this evaluation, mastectomy and lymph nodes excision were performed and these structures were histologically classified as free, reactive or metastatic. Ultrasonographic parameters were compared by Chi-Square or ANOVA tests and if they are significant, discriminative power analysis according to histopathological classification was performed (ROC analysis). The ARFI-elastography shear wave velocity (SWV) enabled metastasis identification in inguinal (sensitivity 95% specificity 87%) and axillary lymph nodes (sensitivity 100% specificity 94%). While B-Mode ultrasound Short/Long axis ratio evaluation of inguinal and axillary lymph nodes only resulted in a sensitivity around of 71% and specificity of 55%. In conclusion, B-Mode ultrasonography may contribute to diagnosis of metastasis in axillary and inguinal lymph nodes of bitches affected by mammary neoplasm with limited accuracy, while SWV evaluation proved to be an excellent diagnosis tool, which allows differentiation between free, reactive and tumour metastatic lymph nodes.

Accuracy of four ultrasonography techniques in predicting histopathological classification of canine mammary carcinomas.

Due to the importance of presurgical, noninvasive, and accurate diagnostic tools in mammary carcinoma characterization, this prospective secondary observational cohort study was designed to evaluate and compare the diagnostic accuracy of B-mode, Doppler, contrast enhancement ultrasonography, or acoustic radiation force impulse-elastography in identifying mammary carcinomas types with high degree of malignancy. A total of 246 mammary carcinomas from 141 female dogs were analyzed using B-mode, Doppler, contrast enhancement ultrasonography, and acoustic radiation force impulse ultrasonography prior to their histopathological classification according to types (simple, complex, or special) and grade (I, II, or III). Qualitative and quantitative variables were compared between carcinoma types and grades by Fisher's or analysis of variance. Diagnostic performance was estimated by receiver-operating characteristic analysis, using histopathological classification as a reference. Deformability (acoustic radiation force impulse) had a diagnostic specificity of 100% and sensitivity of 12% in identifying special carcinomas. A width:length ratio greater than 0.53 can be suggestive of special carcinoma, with 80% sensitivity and 76% specificity. Contrast wash-in and peak enhancement times lower than 7.5 and 13.5 s, respectively, were indicative of complex carcinoma at 62% sensitivity and 60% specificity. Contrast wash-in, peak enhancement, and wash-out times greater than 6.5, 12.5, and 64.5 s, respectively; were indicative of grade II and III carcinoma at 68% sensitivity and 62% specificity. In conclusion, B-mode ultrasonography, contrast enhancement ultrasonography, and acoustic radiation force impulse-elastography enabled the identification of some of the characteristics of high-grade mammary carcinoma types and grades in female dogs with limited accuracy. The findings from this study may contribute to oncology research and clinical management canine patients.

Fetal development of the Poeppig's woolly monkey (Lagothrix poeppigii).

The intrauterine development is an evolutionary strategy that prepares the neonate for extra-uterine life, thus providing important information on the life history of species. In this study, we described the external and internal morphology of 25 fetuses of Poeppig's woolly monkeys (Lagothrix poeppigii) by taking advantage of a 10-year participatory collection of biological samples originated from animals hunted for subsistence purposes in the Peruvian Amazon. Logistic regressions estimated the probability of occurrence of each external morphological characteristic in relation to the crown-rump length (CRL). The presence of nails, closed eyelids, differentiated genitalia and formed limbs with separation of the digits were observed in all analyzed fetuses (≥4.2 cm CRL). The other characteristics appeared in the following order: skin with epidermal pigmentation, oral and nasal mucosal pigmentation, tactile pelage and covering pelage. Although advanced fetuses (>15.8 cm CRL) showed most fetal external characteristics, they were not fully developed and no specimen showed tooth eruption or opened eyelids. The growth formula used to determine fetal age was ∛W = 0.042 (t - 45), with a high linear relationship between CRL and gestational age. All associations between the external biometry, absolute volume of internal organs and the CRL had a high coefficient of determination. Advanced fetuses and adults showed similar relative volume of thoracic and abdominal organs, except for thymus and the liver with a higher and lower relative volume, respectively. The relative volume of the tubular gastrointestinal tract and the thymus had a constant increase along fetal development, and the liver showed a significant decrease. This study describes important morphological events for understanding the gestational development in the Lagothrix genus. In addition, these results may be useful to improve imaging techniques, contributing to the in situ and ex situ reproductive management of this highly hunted species in the Amazon.

Cat epididymal semen cryopreserved with and without vitamin E: effect on sperm parameters and lipid peroxidation.

The aims of this study were to investigate: 1) if the addition of α-tocopherol (vitamin E) in three concentrations (0.3, 0.6 and 0.9 mM) is able to preserve spermatozoa integrity after thawing and 2) the effect of α-tocopherol supplementation on lipid peroxidation. Fifty four domestic cats were used in this study constituting 18 pools (3 cats per pool). Each pool was submitted at four experimental groups: group 0 (control) - epididymal sperm were frozen with a commercial Botucrio® extender; group 0.3, group 0.6 and group 0.9 - the extender was supplemented with 0.3, 0.6 and 0.9 mM of α-tocopherol, respectively. Each semen sample was evaluated for motility, progressive forward motility, morphology, sperm viability (plasma membrane integrity-PMI), hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST), before and after thawing. The evaluation of lipid peroxidation reaction by Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances (TBARS) test was performed on thawed semen only. Results demonstrated that there was no significant difference between control and the three α-tocopherol groups with regards to motility and progressive motility after thawing (P > 0.05). As expected, in fresh samples viability was significantly higher than in all the cryopreserved groups in which there was no positive influence of any of the α-tocopherol concentration used. Lipid peroxidation was higher in the supplemented groups 0.6 and 0.9 mM of α-tocopherol than in control and in 0.3 mM group. In conclusion, the addition of α-tocopherol to the commercial extender had no positive influence on reduction of lipid peroxidation. This topic deserves further investigations to better understand the effect of cryopreservation procedures on epididymal spermatozoa and to establish adequate strategies to counteract sperm cryodamages.

Ultrasonography methods for predicting malignancy in canine mammary tumors.

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of B-mode, Doppler, contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS), and Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) elastography in predicting malignancy in canine mammary masses. This was a prospective cohort study from 2014 to 2016, which included 153 bitches with one or more mammary masses. A total of 300 masses were evaluated by ultrasonography (B-mode, Doppler, CEUS, and ARFI) and subsequently classified as benign or malignant by histopathology. Each ultrasound parameters studied were compared between benign and malignant masses by Chi-square or Student tests and differences were considered significant when P < 0.01. For the variables that proved significant differences were estimated the cut-off point, sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and area under curve (AUC) by receiver-operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis in a logistic regression model using histopathological classification as reference, to assess and compare diagnostic performance of each technique. Out of 300 mammary masses evaluated 246 were classified as malignant and 54 as benign. B-mode measurements showed sensitivity 67.9%, and specificity 67.6% as malignancy predictors on canine mammary masses; Doppler indexes systolic (>21.2 m/s) and diastolic velocity (>4.8 m/s) sensitivity 79.2% and specificity 70.8%; CEUS wash-out time (<80.5 s) sensitivity 80.2% and specificity 16.7%; and ARFI elastography shear velocity (SWV > 2.57 m/s) sensitivity 94.7% and specificity 97.2% In conclusion B-mode and Doppler ultrasound evaluations may assist in malignancy prediction of canine mammary masses with moderate sensitivity and specificity, already the SWV was an great accurate predictor. Therefore, ARFI elastography exam inclusion in veterinary clinic oncology and research is highly recommended, since it allows fast, non-invasive, and complication-free malignancy prediction of canine mammary masses.

Hemodynamic gestational adaptation in bitches / Adaptação hemodinâmica gestacional em cadelas

ABSTRACT: Throughout pregnancy, maternal hemodynamic adaptation is needed to ensure proper uterine perfusion and fetal development. When the uteroplacental vascular system is formed, starting with reduced resistance to uterine arterial flow, this results in decreased total vascular resistance, an activation of neuroendocrine vasoactive peptides, an increase in circulating blood and changes in the cardiovascular system morphophysiology to respond to the increasing demands of uterine perfusion. There has been considerable study of hemodynamic adaptation in pregnant women and this assessment has become a diagnostic tool for fatal obstetric disorders. However, in bitches the available information in this regard is limited; therefore a parallel was drawn between other species of animals and women, in order to subsidize the paucity of information about this process and facilitate the understanding of maternal-fetal hemodynamic adaptation in pregnant bitches. This review and literature analysis aimed/ to discuss morphophysiological cardiovascular adaptations during pregnancy and the possible disorders that can affect this process in pregnant female dogs.

RESUMO: Durante a gestação, a adaptação hemodinâmica materna é necessária para garantir adequada perfusão uterina e desenvolvimento fetal. A formação de um leito vascular uteroplacentário a partir da redução na resistência ao fluxo da artéria uterina reflete na diminuição da resistência vascular total, ativação de fatores neuroendócrinos vasoativos, aumento do volume de sangue circulante e modificações na morfofisiologia do sistema cardiovascular para responder as demandas crescentes de perfusão uterina. Em mulheres gestantes o estudo da adaptação hemodinâmica encontra-se bastante desenvolvido e esta avaliação tem se convertido em uma ferramenta diagnóstica de desordens obstétricas que podem comprometer a relação do binômio materno-fetal. Não obstante, em cadelas a informação disponível a este respeito é limitada e por isso traçou-se um paralelo entre outras espécies de animais e mulheres, de maneira que subsidiassem a carência de informações a este respeito e facilitassem o processo de compreensão da adaptação hemodinâmica materno-fetal em cadelas gestantes. Esta revisão e análise da literatura visa abordar a adaptação morfofisiológica cardiovascular frente à gestação e as possíveis desordens que possam acometer este processo em cães.

Single-port laparoscopic ovariectomy using a pre-tied loop ligature in Santa Ines ewes / Ovariectomia por um portal laparoscópico com aplicação de ligaduras pré-montadas em ovelhas Santa Inês

ABSTRACT:The aim of the study was to develop and assess the feasibility, postoperative pain and inflammatory response of the single-port laparoscopic ovariectomy in ewes, using a simple pre-tied loop ligature technique. Pre-tied Meltzer's knot was employed for prophylactic hemostasis of the ovarian pedicle. Slipknot was inserted within the abdominal cavity through a 14-gauge needle and tied surrounding the ovarian pedicle. Mean surgical time, manipulation, ligature and resection of each ovary and anesthesia time were 63±20, 20±10 and 91±26 minutes, respectively. No bleeding occurred during the surgeries. Ewes showed low scores pain (0.5±0.5) at all time-points. Postsurgical plasma fibrinogen was within the normal range for sheep specie at all time-points. The ewes showed a significant weight gain in comparison to the basal scaling (one day before the surgery). Single-port laparoscopic ovariectomy using a pre-tied loop ligature is feasible in the ovine specie and provided minimal postoperative distress and quick weight gain.

RESUMO:Objetivou-se com este trabalho desenvolver e descrever uma técnica de ovariectomia por videolaparoscopia utilizando um portal laparoscópico e um sistema de ligadura pré-montada, avaliando a sua viabilidade, o desconforto doloroso e o processo inflamatório provocado em ovelhas. O nó de Meltzer pré-montado foi utilizado para hemostasia profilática do pedículo ovariano. O nó corrediço foi inserido na cavidade abdominal através de uma agulha 14G e atado em torno do pedículo ovariano. O tempo médio de cirurgia foi de 63±20min, o de manipulação, ligadura e ressecção para cada ovário foi de 20±10min, e o de anestesia 91±26min. Não houve hemorragia durante as cirurgias. As ovelhas apresentaram escores de dor considerados baixos (0,5±0,5). Todos os valores do fibrinogênio plasmático estiveram dentro do padrão de normalidade, não havendo diferença estatística entre os momentos avaliados. Houve aumento significativo nas médias de peso das fêmeas, quando comparados ao momento controle (um dia anterior ao experimento). A ovariectomia por um portal laparoscópico com aplicação de ligaduras pré-montadas é factível para a espécie ovina, provocando mínimo estresse, desconforto doloroso e rápido ganho de peso nos animais.

Administração de toxina botulínica A e a orquiectomia no tratamento da hiperplasia prostática benigna do cão / Botulinum toxin A administration and orchiectomy in the treatment of canine benign prostatic hyperplasia

A fisiopatologia da hiperplasia prostática benigna (HPB) não está totalmente compreendida, no entanto, a diidrotestosterona é o principal hormônio envolvido. Recentemente, o efeito da toxina botulínica A (TB-A) foi investigado, mostrando que esta induz atrofia do parênquima e redução do volume prostático. Com base nisso, este estudo teve como objetivos comparar os efeitos da administração da TB-A com a orquiectomia no tratamento da HPB, além de avaliar os efeitos da TB-A sobre a libido e qualidade do sêmen. Para tanto, 16 cães adultos foram submetidos à castração ou administração de 500U de TB-A, e avaliados durante 16 semanas. A orquiectomia mostrou-se um excelente tratamento, promovendo redução de 80% do volume prostático. Aplicação da TB-A não ocasionou alterações na libido, ereção ou qualidade e características seminais. Por outro lado, reduziu significamente o volume da próstata. Os resultados sugerem que a administração intraprostática de TB-A é um tratamento alternativo efetivo e sem efeitos colaterais para cães destinados a programas de reprodução. No entanto, esta terapia apresenta reduções inferiores do volume prostático, quando comparada com a orquiectomia.

The pathogenesis of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is not completely known, however, dihydrotestosterone is a hormone involved in enlargement of the prostate. Recently, the effect of botulinum toxin A (BT-A) was investigated and has shown to induce atrophy of the gland. Based on that, the aims of this study were to compare the effects of administration of BT-A with orchiectomy in the treatment of BPH, in addition to assessing the effects of BT-A on libido and semen quality. Therefore, 16 sexually intact male dogs were submitted to orchiectomy or administration of 500U BT-A, and evaluated for 16 weeks. Orchiectomy presented excellent results, reducing the prostate volume up to 80%. Administration of BT-A did not interfered on libido, erection or semen characteristics. On the other hand, reduced significantly the prostate volume. The results suggest that intraprostatic injection of BT-A is an effective alternative treatment without adverse effects for valuable breeding dogs with BPH. However, this therapy showed lower reduction of prostate volume when compared to orchiectomy.

Reproductive and productive performances of Santa Inês ewes submitted to breeding in different periods of the Amazonian humid tropical climate.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the reproductive and productive performance of Santa Inês ewes bred at different times of the year in humid tropical climate. One hundred and forty-eight Santa Inês ewes were grouped according to the time of the year of their breeding season (i.e., mating period) (dry/wet, wet, wet/dry, and dry season). The service type was natural mating and the ewes and rams were kept together every night for 45 days. Reproductive efficiency was assessed by service, pregnancy, lambing, prolificacy, twinning, pregnancy loss, weaning, and lamb mortality rates. Ewes were weighed at the beginning and at the end of the breeding season and before and after parturition, and sequential weighing of the lambs was performed (at birth, 15, 30, 60, and 90 days). Reproductive efficiency index (number of lambs weaned/total of served ewes) and productive efficiency (kg of weaned lamb/kg of served or lambed ewes) were calculated. All ewes expressed estrus early in the breeding season; however, a higher percentage (53.5 and 7.1 % at 30 and 45 days, respectively) of ewes returned to estrus during the wet/dry period. The lower rates (13.9 %) of return to estrus at 30 days were during the wet season (P < 0.05). There were no (P > 0.05) effects of breeding seasons on the remaining reproductive rates. Ewes that lambed during the wet/dry transition period weighted less, before (40.5 ± 2.5 kg) and after (38.6 ± 1.6 kg) parturition, than those of other groups (P < 0.05). Lamb weight at birth did not vary between groups, however, weight at weaning was higher (15.6 ± 2.1 kg) in lambs born during the wet season (P < 0.05). The reproductive efficiency index was lower (0.66) when the breeding season took place during the dry/wet period (P < 0.05). Productive rates were significantly higher (0.29 and 0.33 for kg of weaned lamb/kg of served and lambed ewes, respectively; P < 0.05) in ewes served in the dry season. The reproductive performance of Santa Inês ewes was not significantly influenced by the period of the year in which the breeding seasons took place, allowing for four breeding seasons a year in the Amazon region. Variations between periods in return to estrus rates, weight of ewes close to parturition and lamb weight at weaning indicate that climate changes can also affect reproductive rates.

Endoscopic approach for a laryngeal neoplasm in a dog / Abordagem endoscópica de neoplasia em laringe em um cão

Laryngeal and tracheal tumors are rare in pets; some piece of information on their disease behavior, therapy and evolution are limited. Neoplasms in this area are a diagnostic challenge. In many cases, they can be biopsied and excised using endoscopic instruments, but there is no report of this in canines. The goal of this study is to report a successful case of a laryngeal neoplasm removal through endoscopy. A head and neck radiogram revealed a mass in the laryngeal lumen protruding into the trachea. The patient then underwent an endoscopy to confirm the radiographic diagnosis and to surgically remove the tumor. The histopathological diagnosis was poorly differentiated carcinoma. The most appropriate treatment for laryngeal tumors is the resection of the submucosa or a partial laryngectomy however, partial and total laryngectomies are associated with many postoperative complications. In contrast, the endoscopic approach allows for highly magnified visualization of the lesion in situ, which facilitates the surgical removal of the mass through videosurgery. With little manipulation of the affected area, the chances of postoperative complications are reduced, leading to a more rapid recovery. .

Tumores de laringe e traqueia são raros em animais de estimação e as informações sobre o comportamento, terapia e evolução destas neoplasias são limitadas. Neoplasias nesta área são desafios diagnósticos. Em muitos casos, pode ser feita a biópsia e excisão da massa utilizando instrumentos endoscópicos, mas não existe relato deste tipo de procedimento em caninos. O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar um caso de sucesso da remoção endoscópica de um tumor de laringe. A radiografia da região cervical revelou uma massa na luz da laringe invadindo a traqueia. O paciente foi então submetido a uma endoscopia para confirmar o diagnóstico radiográfico e remover cirurgicamente o tumor. O diagnóstico histopatológico foi de carcinoma pouco diferenciado. O tratamento mais adequado para os tumores da laringe é a ressecção da submucosa ou uma laringectomia parcial, no entanto, estas estão associadas a muitas complicações pós-operatórias. Em contraste, a abordagem endoscópica permite a visualização da lesão in situ, o que facilita a remoção cirúrgica da massa através de videocirurgia. Com pouca manipulação da área afetada, as chances de complicações pós-operatórias são reduzidas, levando a uma recuperação mais rápida. .