Outcome of traumatic elbow luxation managed with temporary transarticular external skeletal fixation in eight cats.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to report the clinical outcomes in a series of traumatic elbow luxations in cats treated with closed reduction and a temporary transarticular type II external skeletal fixator (ESF). METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted of traumatic elbow luxation cases in cats at two referral centres. Data collected included signalment, history, clinical assessment, radiographic findings, surgical procedures and complications. Short-term follow-up was based on clinical evaluations at 2 and 6 weeks postoperatively. Long-term follow-up was based either on a telephone interview with the owner or a clinical evaluation. RESULTS: Eight cats were included. Five cats experienced lateral elbow luxation, while three cats had medial elbow luxation. All cats with medial elbow luxation exhibited radiographic signs of medial humeral epicondylitis. The median age was 9 years (range 3-15). The elbow luxation was treated by closed reduction and percutaneous placement of a temporary transarticular type II ESF, which was removed 2 weeks postoperatively. Two minor complications were recorded. Elbow reluxation and major complications were not encountered. The 6-week postoperative evaluation and long-term follow-up revealed a lameness of grade 1 in 1/8 cats and 0 in the remainder. Elbow range of motion was normal in all cats. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: None of the cases treated with this protocol experienced recurrence of elbow luxation. All cats demonstrated an excellent outcome based on the lameness score, the low complication rate and the follow-up telephone interview. The technique is minimally invasive and carries a low incidence of complications. Concurrent orthopaedic disease, such as medial humeral epicondylitis, may predispose to medial elbow luxation.

Does the proximal screw type affect stress and strain in pastern arthrodesis with locking plate in horses?

The implantation of unicortical cortex screws in the proximal hole of locking compression plates (LCP) has been recommended for proximal interphalangeal (PIP) arthrodesis in horses to prevent fractures resulting from stress risers in the proximal phalanx (P1). However, this cortex screw fixation technique may limit efficient dorsal compression of the PIP joint by the plate, potentially affecting the stability of the construct. In this study, we aimed to measure stress and strain in P1 and the plate using an ex vivo model of PIP arthrodesis in horses. We employed various implantation methods and proximal screw types in conjunction with two 5.5 mm transarticular cortex screws. Ten pairs of equine forelimbs were divided into four groups based on proximal screw placement: GUC (unicortically placed cortex screw), GBC (bicortically placed cortex screw), GUL (unicortically placed locking screw), and GBL (bicortically placed locking screw). We calculated the magnitude and direction of strain, strain ratio, and stress using strain gauges during an axial compression mechanical testing. The palmar surface of P1 exhibited higher stress and strains than the dorsal surface, with the plate part located at the articular level suffered more stress than the proximal part. Both the implantation method and proximal screw type significantly influenced the analyzed parameters. The GUC promoted greater changes in strain direction in the proximal portion of the P1. Bicortical placement of a cortex screw appears to be the most suitable option for filling the proximal hole of the LCP, because it allows effective dynamic compression via the plate and prevents abrupt shifts in the direction of the forces acting on the proximal part of P1 during loading.

Ulnocarpal arthrodesis as a new treatment for ectrodactyly in a dog and a cat.

CASE HISTORY: A 4-month-old male Shih Tzu dog (Case 1) and an 11-month-old female Devon Rex cat (Case 2) were referred to specialist veterinary hospitals for evaluation of right thoracic lameness and growth abnormality in the distal aspect of the forelimb. CLINICAL FINDINGS: Non-weight-bearing lameness and decreased range of motion were noted in the affected limbs of both cases. Case 1 had a plantigrade stance, and a cleft separation between the first and second digits extending upwards to the distal third of the antebrachium. There was no pain on palpation, and the affected limb was shorter than the contralateral. Radiographic examination revealed cleft separation between metacarpal bones I and II, and carpal bone fusion (I, II, III), and the distal radius ended freely and was attached to the first metacarpal bone.Case 2 had a small cleft medial to metacarpal III. The limb was consistently held in abduction and had marked carpal varus. The limb had never been used for weight bearing. Radiographic examination showed agenesis of metacarpal bone II and separation of metacarpals I and III. The radius and ulna were separated and the radial head did not articulate normally at the elbow, leading to marked elbow incongruity. DIAGNOSIS: Ectrodactyly in both cases. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME: Amputation of the radius followed by ulnocarpal arthrodesis were performed in both cases. Follow-up evaluations up to 1 year (Case 1) and 10 weeks (Case 2) after surgery indicated satisfactory arthrodesis fusion, owner satisfaction, and a good clinical outcome. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Ectrodactyly is a rare congenital deformity of the forelimb with a heterogeneous character, requiring an individualised treatment plan. These are the first cases reported in the literature of ectrodactyly in small animals that were treated successfully with ulnocarpal arthrodesis. This case series therefore provides evidence in support of this treatment option for this heterogeneous congenital deformity.

Successful treatment of forelimb osteochondroma in a ferret (Mustela putorius furo).

A 1-year-old male neutered ferret (Mustela putorius furo) was evaluated for an abnormal left cubital joint. Radiographs demonstrated a proliferative osseous lesion of the left proximal antebrachium. Computed tomography confirmed a large thin-walled expansile osseous lesion of the left proximal radius and identified multifocal proliferative lesions of the axial spine, two of which caused spinal cord compression. A left forelimb amputation with total scapulectomy was performed. Histopathology revealed a well-demarcated mass with a thin rim of mature lamellar bone and a discontinuous cartilage cap covered by a perichondrial/periosteal membrane continuous with the adjacent bone. Findings were most consistent with an osteochondroma or osteochondromatosis (i.e., multiple cartilaginous exostoses, hereditary multiple exostoses). No evidence of malignant transformation was observed within this specimen. Three months post-surgery, verbal correspondence with the owner confirmed return to normal activity level and no emergence of neurological signs. Repeat examination and imaging were recommended.

Athletic prognosis following arthroscopic removal of osteochondral fragments of the proximal dorsal sagittal ridge of the fetlock in Thoroughbreds intended for flat racing.

OBJECTIVE: To establish racing prognosis in Thoroughbred yearlings with proximal sagittal ridge osteochondral lesions and compare them to dorsoproximal and palmar/plantar first phalanx osteochondral lesions. ANIMALS: A total of 47 horses had proximal sagittal ridge lesions, 34 had palmar/plantar first phalanx lesions, and 115 had dorsoproximal first phalanx lesions. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. METHODS: Medical records of Thoroughbred yearling racing prospects treated arthroscopically for fetlock osteochondral lesions were reviewed. Data were collected from a public database, including the ability to train and race, earnings, starts, wins, and placed races. Racing prognosis was analyzed and compared between three lesion locations. RESULTS: Of the proximal sagittal ridge group, 76.6% raced, 65.71% of the palmar/plantar first phalanx group, and 74.58% of the dorsoproximal first phalanx group. Career length was similar for all lesions. A lower number of "starts" in the group "five years old and older" was found for the dorsoproximal first phalanx group compared to the cohort with proximal sagittal ridge lesions. Mares had more "earnings" at two years old but fewer "starts" at "five years old" compared to colts and geldings. Forelimb lesions were predictive for fewer total career starts. CONCLUSION: Proximal sagittal ridge lesions had similar prognoses to dorsoproximal and palmar/plantar first phalanx lesions. In older horses, there was an increase in the number of starts for the proximal sagittal ridge group compared to the dorsoproximal first phalanx group. Mares and forelimb lesions were associated with decreased racing starts. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: These findings aid in prognostication for Thoroughbreds with osteochondral lesions removed arthroscopically in the fetlock joint.

A lateral approach allows accurate and stable total elbow replacement in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate whether total elbow replacement (TER) through a lateral approach is accurate and stable. ANIMALS: 12 skeletally mature large-breed dog cadavers were used. METHODS: Limb alignment, elbow joint motion, and collateral ligament laxity were evaluated preoperatively. The order of surgery (left or right) and the approach (lateral or medial) were randomly selected for TER in each dog. The other approach was used in the contralateral elbow. Intraoperative technical difficulties, duration of surgery, and anatomic complications were recorded. Limb alignment, elbow joint motion, collateral ligament laxity, and prosthetic component alignment were evaluated after surgery. Data were collected from June 11 to 15, 2023. RESULTS: The duration of surgery using a lateral or medial approach did not differ (P = .499). Anatomic complications were not observed. The lateral approach resulted in 8° more elbow extension (P = .003), 1.58° less lateral collateral ligament constraint (P = .033), 2.80° less medial collateral ligament constraint (P = .002), 4.38° less frontal plane constraint (P = .004), 8° greater humeral component inclination (P = .033), and 5.6° greater radioulnar component varus (P = .001) than the medial approach. Varus of the radius, mechanical axis deviation, limb supination, elbow flexion, mediolateral humeral component and craniocaudal radioulnar component orientation did not differ among joints operated using a lateral or medial approach. In normal cadaveric elbows, a lateral approach for TER appears feasible, producing equivalent limb alignment, joint laxity, and joint motion to normal elbows and to TER placed using a medial approach. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In dogs, TER can be performed using a lateral surgical approach.

A novel transcoronal surgical technique for the treatment of cystic lesions of the distal phalanx: A cadaveric study.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the feasibility of a novel transcoronal approach for the treatment of axial type 3 cysts of the palmar/plantar aspect of the distal phalanx (P3). STUDY DESIGN: Ex vivo, experimental study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Ten cadaveric specimens, four forelimbs and six hindlimbs. METHODS: All cadaveric specimens underwent radiographically guided drilling, followed by cortical screw placement. The cartilage was macroscopically assessed after disarticulation of the distal interphalangeal joint. The entry point and trajectory were evaluated with computed tomography. Results were categorized as: axial, near-axial and abaxial. The minimal distance from the outer margin of the drill hole and the proximal border of the subchondral bone plate was measured using frontal computed tomographic slices. RESULTS: Eight of the 10 screws were in an axial to near-axial position and nine followed the desired axial to near-axial trajectory. One screw was inserted axially but continued in an abaxial trajectory. Iatrogenic damage to the joint cartilage, flexor cortex and solar canal of P3 was not observed. All cortical screws were placed close to the proximal subchondral bone-plate of P3. CONCLUSION: The desired axial/near-axial drilling and screw placement, under radiographic guidance, was achieved in nine out of 10 specimens. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This novel technique seems promising for the treatment of inaccessible P3 cysts. Additional studies are required to investigate its feasibility in clinical cases, and the long-term outcome following transcystic screw placement of type 3 P3 cysts.

Three cases of dogs with osteosarcoma of the forelimb treated with liquid nitrogen for limb-sparing surgery using autologous bone.

Osteosarcoma treatment with limb-sparing surgery using liquid nitrogen can be applied to canine patients experiencing diminished quality of life after leg amputation. In particular, forelimb amputation may affect gait more than hindlimb amputation. In this study, limb-sparing surgery using liquid nitrogen was applied to primary osteosarcomas arising in the proximal scapula of a Welsh Corgi, the proximal humerus of a Golden Retriever, and the distal radius of a Great Pyrenees, according to the protocol of Tsuchiya et al. In all cases, postoperative radiographic examination revealed bone union between the treated and matrix bones. All patients recovered their gait postoperatively. These results suggest that limb-sparing surgery using liquid nitrogen-treated autologous bone is an effective option for patients with osteosarcoma.

Dorsal-to-palmar branch neuroanastomosis in horses undergoing palmar digital neurectomy does not reduce neuroma formation or improve outcome.

OBJECTIVE: Chronic foot pain, a common cause of forelimb lameness, can be treated by palmar digital neurectomy (PDN). Complications include neuroma formation and lameness recurrence. In humans, neuroanastomoses are performed to prevent neuroma formation. The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcome of horses undergoing dorsal-to-palmar branch neuroanastomosis following PDN. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Eighty-five horses with PDN and dorsal-to-palmar branch neuroanastomosis. METHODS: Medical records for horses undergoing this procedure at two hospitals between 2015 and 2020 were reviewed. Palmar and dorsal nerve branches of the PDN were transected and end-to-end neuroanastomosis was performed by apposition of the perineurium. Follow-up was obtained from medical records and telephone interviews. Success was defined as resolution of lameness for at least one year. RESULTS: Lameness resolved following surgery in 81/85 (95%) horses with 57/84 (68%) sound at one year. Postoperative complications occurred in 19/85 (22%) cases. The main limitations of the study were an incomplete data set, inaccurate owner recall, and variations in procedure. CONCLUSION: Compared to previous studies, this technique resulted in similar numbers of horses sound immediately after surgery, a comparable rate of postoperative neuroma formation but a higher recurrence of lameness rate at 1 year postoperatively. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: End-to-end neuroanastomosis of the dorsal and palmar branches of the PDN does not reduce the rate of neuroma formation in horses. Long-term outcome was less favorable compared to previously reported PDN techniques.

The use of lateral arthroscopy portals for the management of a fragmented lateral coronoid process in an English Bulldog.

OBJECTIVE: To report a case of unilateral lateral coronoid process fragmentation in a dog treated via lateral elbow arthroscopy portals. ANIMAL: A 9-month old male intact English Bulldog. STUDY DESIGN: Case report. METHODS: The dog presented with a history of intermittent right thoracic limb lameness. Orthopedic examination on presentation was unremarkable. Computed tomography of the right thoracic limb was pursued and revealed a mineralized focus along the lateral margin of the lateral coronoid process as well as sclerosis of the medial coronoid process and subtrochlear region of the ulna. Elbow arthroscopy was performed via a lateral approach and revealed chondromalacia of the entire lateral coronoid process. Abrasion arthroplasty of the lateral coronoid process was performed. RESULTS: Complete resolution of the lameness was achieved within two weeks of surgery. At 6 weeks postoperatively, the dog remained sound and a gradual return to normal activity was recommended. At the final follow up assessment, 5 months after surgery, no abnormalities were found on orthopedic examination and the owners reported excellent limb function with no observable lameness. CONCLUSION: Lateral coronoid disease can occur as a rare component of elbow dysplasia in dogs. Abrasion arthroplasty via lateral arthroscopic portals may have resulted in a successful outcome in this case and may form an effective treatment option for lateral coronoid disease in dogs.

Orthotopic forelimb transplantation in a Yucatan minipig model: Anatomic and in vivo study.

INTRODUCTION: Above elbow transplants represent 19% of the upper extremity transplants. Previous large-animal models have been too distal or heterotopic, did not use immunosuppression and had short survival. We hypothesize that an orthotopic forelimb transplant model, under standard immunosuppression, is feasible and can be used to address questions on peri-transplant ischemia reperfusion injury, and post-transplantation vascular, immunologic, infectious, and functional outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four forelimbs were used for anatomical studies. Four mock transplants were performed to establish technique/level of muscle/tendon repairs. Four donor and four recipient female Yucatan minipigs were utilized for in-vivo transplants (endpoint 90-days). Forelimbs were amputated at the midarm and preserved through ex vivo normothermic perfusion (EVNP) utilizing an RBC-based perfusate. Hourly perfusate fluid-dynamics, gases, electrolytes were recorded. Contractility during EVNLP was graded hourly using the Medical Research Council scale. EVNP termination criteria included systolic arterial pressure ≥115 mmHg, compartment pressure ≥30 mmHg (at EVNP endpoint), oxygen saturation reduction of 20%, and weight change ≥2%. Indocyanine green (ICG) angiography was performed after revascularization. Limb rejection was evaluated clinically (rash, edema, temperature), and histologically (BANFF classification) collecting per cause and protocol biopsies (POD 1, 7, 30, 60 and endpoint). Systemic infections were assessed by blood culture and tissue histology. CT scan was used to confirm bone bridging at endpoint. RESULTS: Animals 2, 4 reached endpoint with grade 0-I rejection. Limbs 1, 3 presented grade III rejection on days 6, 61. CsA troughs averaged 461 ± 189 ng/mL. EVNLP averaged 4.3 ± 0.52 h. Perfusate lactate, PO2 , and pH were 5.6 ± 0.9 mmol/L, 557 ± 72 mmHg and 7.5 ± 0.1, respectively. Muscle contractions were 4 [1] during EVNLP. Transplants 2, 3, 4 showed bone bridging on CT. CONCLUSION: We present preliminary evidence supporting the feasibility of an orthotopic, mid-humeral forelimb allotransplantation model under standard immunosuppression regimen. Further research should validate the immunological, infectious, and functional outcomes of this model.

Effect of Medial Opening Wedge and External Rotational Humeral Osteotomies on Medial Elbow Compartment Pressure: An Ex Vivo Study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess if the level of osteotomy (50 or 75% the length of the humerus), osteotomy angle (5, 10, or 20 degrees), direction of bone alteration (external rotational or medial opening wedge osteotomies), or orientation of osteotomy (perpendicular to the humeral long axis or perpendicular to the weight-bearing axis of the limb) affect pressure through the medial compartment of the elbow. STUDY DESIGN: Humeral osteotomies were performed at 50 and 75% the length of the humerus on 12 canine cadaver thoracic limbs and patient-specific three-dimensional (3D) printed plates applied to induce the desired alteration. Sensors were placed into the medial and lateral aspects of the elbow joint and the limb compressed to 90 N in a universal testing system. RESULTS: Increasing the angle of the induced change had a significant effect on the decreased load through the medial compartment. Performing the osteotomy at 75% of humeral length from proximal was significantly more effective at reducing the medial elbow load than performing it at 50%. Opening wedge osteotomies were more effective than external rotational osteotomies, but both were effective. Changing the direction of the osteotomy (comparing transverse to oblique) did not significantly affect the load reduction through the medial compartment. CONCLUSION: Performing an osteotomy at a more distal location along the humerus and increasing the angle of the induced change increased the effectiveness of load-shifting humeral osteotomies.

AN ANATOMICAL STUDY OF THE THORACIC LIMB OF THE GIANT ANTEATER (MYRMECOPHAGA TRIDACTYLA) COMPARED WITH THE DOMESTIC DOG TO GUIDE SURGICAL APPROACHES TO THE HUMERUS AND RADIUS.

The giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) is a neotropical mammal considered to be vulnerable to extinction. Recent increased interest in veterinary care in the giant anteater has prompted renewed interest in anatomical descriptions in this species. The terrestrial habits and slow movements of the giant anteater contribute to its susceptibility to vehicular trauma on highways, which is a significant cause of mortality in the species. This study describes the muscular anatomy of the thoracic limb and variations of the long bones with emphasis on the structures surrounding the humerus and radius. It also describes the possible surgical approaches for the management of fractures of humerus and radius, comparing these with the surgical approaches described in dogs (Canis lupus familiaris). Three giant anteater and three domestic dog cadavers, from deaths not related to this project, were used. The medial approach to the humeral diaphysis of the giant anteater resulted in the least tissue trauma, and provided access to the flattest surface for implant attachment. The lateral approach to the radius proved challenging, requiring total detachment of the extensor carpi radialis muscle and incision of the very robust abductor digitorum longus muscle to access the distal diaphysis. Although the giant anteater shares many similarities of the thoracic limb anatomy with the domestic dog, important differences exist. This comparative knowledge will allow veterinary practitioners to directly apply the principles of fracture repair in these species. Safe access to these bones for possible osteosynthesis is essential to allow implant placement and minimize postoperative complications in this species.

Comparison of three-dimensional printed patient-specific guides versus freehand approach for radial osteotomies in normal dogs: Ex vivo model.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the accuracy of three-dimensional (3D) printed patient-specific guide (PSG) with a freehand (FH) approach for radial osteotomies in ex vivo normal dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Experimental study. ANIMALS: Twenty four ex vivo thoracic limb pairs from normal beagle dogs. METHODS: Computed tomography (CT) images were collected preoperatively and postoperatively. Three osteotomies tested (n = 8/group) were: (1) uniplanar 30° frontal plane wedge ostectomy, (2) oblique plane (30° frontal, 15° sagittal) wedge ostectomy, and (3) single oblique plane osteotomy (SOO, 30° frontal, 15° sagittal, and 30° external). Limb pairs were randomized to a 3D PSG or FH approach. The resultant osteotomies were compared with virtual target osteotomies by surface shape-matching postoperative to the preoperative radii. RESULTS: The mean ± standard deviation osteotomy angle deviation for all 3D PSG osteotomies (2.8 ± 2.8°, range 0.11-14.1°) was less than for the FH osteotomies (6.4 ± 6.0°, range 0.03-29.7°). No differences were found for osteotomy location in any group. In total, 84% of 3D PSG osteotomies were within 5° deviance from the target compared to 50% of freehand osteotomies. CONCLUSION: Three-dimensional PSG improved FH accuracy of osteotomy angle in select planes and the most complex osteotomy orientation in a normal ex vivo radial model. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Three-dimensional PSGs provided more consistent accuracy, which was most notable in complex radial osteotomies. Future work is needed to investigate guided osteotomies in dogs with antebrachial bone deformities.

Assessment of Outcome of Arthroscopic Subtotal Coronoidectomy in Treating Medial Coronoid Disease and Effect of Concurrent Autologous Conditioned Plasma in Dogs Using Force Plate Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the outcome of arthroscopic subtotal coronoidectomy in treating medial coronoid disease and the effect of concurrent autologous conditioned plasma (ACP) in dogs using force plate analysis. STUDY DESIGN: This study included 16 dogs with unilateral medial coronoid disease based on computed tomographic imaging. Treatment consisted of an arthroscopic subtotal coronoidectomy. As concurrent therapy, eight dogs received ACP at the end of the arthroscopy and eight dogs a placebo. Force plate analysis, including vertical forces, braking and propulsive forces, corresponding impulses and symmetry indices, was performed prior to arthroscopy and at 4, 12 and 26 weeks postoperatively. RESULTS: After an initial reduction of all force plate analysis parameters, vertical and propulsive parameters gradually improved to the level of healthy dogs at 26 weeks postoperatively. In contrast, braking parameters did not reach normal values at 26 weeks, demonstrating ongoing loss of elbow joint function. The ACP and placebo group did not show any significant difference in force plate analysis parameters during the 26 weeks study period. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic subtotal coronoidectomy did not result in complete normalization of ground reaction forces, impulses and symmetry indices. Concurrent treatment with ACP, immediately after arthroscopy, did not improve outcome. Our results show that outcome of arthroscopic subtotal coronoidectomy in treating medial coronoid disease is less favourable than previously reported.

Ex vivo study shows novel, rapid, suture-free tenotomy technique for the equine deep digital flexor tendon.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the feasibility of a novel thread-transecting technique for the tenotomy of the equine deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT). ANIMALS: 39 equine distal limb specimens. METHODS: Under ultrasonographic guidance, a surgical thread was percutaneously placed around the DDFT through 2 needle punctures (lateral and medial) using a Tuohy needle in equine limbs (22 forelimbs, 17 hindlimbs). The DDFT was transected by a back-and-forth motion of the thread until the loop emerged from the entry puncture site. Each specimen was dissected and assessed for completeness of transection and iatrogenic damage under direct visualization. Descriptive statistics were reported. RESULTS: Complete DDFT transection was achieved in all 39 limbs, taking an average of 8.6 minutes per procedure. Iatrogenic damage to surrounding structures occurred in 17 (44%) limbs, with 6 (15%) limbs having more than 1 structure damaged. Damage to the communicating branch of the palmar or plantar nerves was the most commonly seen. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: DDFT tenotomy in equine limb specimens was effectively performed using a novel thread-transecting technique. The procedure is quick, and no suturing is needed, but damage to surrounding structures is possible. Further assessment of the procedure and clinical significance of its potential iatrogenic damage in clinical cases is needed.

Ex-vivo evaluation of a percutaneous looped thread desmotomy of the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon in horses.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the ability to completely transect the equine accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon (AL-DDFT) via an ultrasonographically-guided, percutaneous looped thread desmotomy using FiberWire suture as a cutting device. STUDY DESIGN: Ex-vivo study. SAMPLE POPULATION: A total of 24 normal equine distal forelimb specimens. METHODS: Under ultrasonographic guidance, a Jamshidi needle was placed between the suspensory ligament and the AL-DDFT, and between the AL-DDFT and the deep digital flexor tendon, through two stab incisions. FiberWire suture was fed through the needle and looped around the AL-DDFT. Using a sawing motion, the ligament was transected, and the suture exited through the lateral incision. Surgical sites were dissected and assessed for completeness of transection, iatrogenic injuries, and suture remnants. Descriptive statistics were reported. RESULTS: The procedure met the successful criteria in 18/24 (75%) of the limbs. The median surgical time was 11 min (range 7-25). No suture failure or suture remnants were noted in any of the specimens. Complications included iatrogenic injury to the medial and lateral neurovascular bundles in 4/24 and 1/24 specimens, respectively. CONCLUSION: Complete transection of the AL-DDFT was achieved in 22/24 (92%) of the specimens; however, the neurovascular bundles were injured in 5/24 (21%) of the specimens. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: A percutaneous looped thread desmotomy of the AL-DDFT can be studied as an alternative technique for use in equine models prior to its clinical use in patients. Additional studies are required to evaluate efficacy and safety in anesthetized or standing horses.

Use of Ultrasonography in Diagnosis of Medial Compartment Disease of the Elbow in Dogs.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this prospective study was to evaluate the use of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of medial coronoid process disease in unclear cases. STUDY DESIGN: Fifteen elbows (on thirteen dogs) for which radiography and computed tomography did not lead to a clear diagnosis of medial coronoid process disease were included. On each elbow, ultrasonography was performed with a high frequency linear transducer (12-18Hz). Then, arthroscopic examination of the joint was performed by a surgeon who was unaware of ultrasonographic findings to confirm medial coronoid process disease. RESULTS: At least one ultrasonographic lesion was detected in 13 out of 15 elbows. The main reported ultrasonographic lesions were joint effusion (10/15 elbows) and an abnormal shape of the medial coronoid process (irregular, ill-defined or fragmented) (9/15). CONCLUSION: Ultrasonography can be a helpful additional diagnostic tool to confirm medial coronoid process disease of the elbow joint before performing arthroscopy in unclear cases. Further studies will be needed to evaluate the use of higher frequency transducers and determine if it could improve the diagnostic value of ultrasonography.

Evaluation of a small-bore needle arthroscope for diagnosis and treatment of medial coronoid disease in dogs: a pilot study with short-term assessment.

CASE HISTORY: Dogs (n = 15) that were presented to a single veterinary teaching hospital with elbow dysplasia-associated lameness between September 2021 and May 2022, and were determined to require arthroscopy based on imaging results, were prospectively recruited into the study. The median duration of lameness was 4 (min 1, max 24) months. CLINICAL FINDINGS: Various breeds were represented with a median body weight of 31.6 (min 15, max 46.4) kg and median age at presentation of 14 (min 8, max 83) months. Results of imaging modalities (CT) were consistent with medial coronoid disease with fissured or fragmented medial coronoid process in all dogs. ARTHROSCOPIC FINDINGS: Feasibility of the needle arthroscopy (NA) procedure was firstly assessed in a preliminary cadaveric study in forelimbs (n = 10) collected from 10 adult dogs euthanised for reasons unrelated to the study. Elbow exploration was performed through a medial approach beginning with NA (1.9 mm 0° angle scope) followed by standard arthroscopy (SA; 2.4 mm 30° angle scope). The quality and extent of visualisation (scored through the number of anatomical structures visualised) were recorded and statistically compared. As the cadaver study indicated that NA allowed safe inspection of all structures in medial/caudal compartments, this procedure was then used in the dogs requiring treatment. In the clinical setting, elbow exploration was successful in all dogs and the treatment (removal of osteochondral fragments) was performed without requiring conversion into SA. One month after surgery, all dogs had an improvement in their lameness score (0-5) and 12/15 dogs were no longer lame. There was a reduction in Canine Orthopaedic Index scores measured a median of 99 (min 47, max 180) days after surgery (24 (IQR 19.5-31.5)) compared to the pre-operative period (49 (IQR 46.5-57); p < 0.001). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Needle arthroscopy-assisted removal of osteochondral fragments was performed in all dogs with satisfactory short-term clinical outcome. NA is a feasible technique for diagnosis and lesion assessment in dogs with a fissured or fragmented coronoid process. Larger clinical studies with longer follow-up are necessary to validate the NanoScope operative arthroscopy system as an alternative strategy to SA for video-assisted treatment of medial coronoid disease.

Ex vivo evaluation of a percutaneous thread-transecting technique for desmotomy of normal palmar/plantar annular ligaments in horses.

OBJECTIVE: To develop and describe a minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided, percutaneous technique for the desmotomy of equine palmar/plantar annular ligaments (PALs) using a transecting thread. STUDY DESIGN: Ex vivo study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Twenty-one normal equine distal limb specimens. METHODS: Under ultrasonographic guidance, a surgical thread was percutaneously placed around the PAL through 2 skin punctures (proximal and distal) using a 18 gauge spinal needle in equine limbs (11 forelimbs, 10 hindlimbs) with normal PALs. The ligament was transected by a back-and-forth motion of the thread until the loop emerged from the proximal skin puncture site. Each specimen was dissected and assessed for completeness of transection and iatrogenic damage under direct visualization. Descriptive statistics were reported. RESULTS: The PAL was completely transected in 17/21 limbs. The mean duration of the procedure was 16 minutes. Superficial needle puncture or subtle abrasion of the superficial digital flexor tendon was noticed in 4 limbs. No iatrogenic injury to other intrathecal structures was identified. After PAL division, the needle entry and exit points had a mean diameter of 1.2 and 1 mm, respectively. CONCLUSION: Desmotomy of normal PALs in equine limb specimens was performed effectively using the percutaneous thread-transecting technique with minimal iatrogenic damage to adjacent structures. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Information from this study will allow refinement of the technique for use in equine clinical cases either in standing or anesthetized horses.