Endoscopic and surgical treatment of non-neoplastic proximal duodenal ulceration in dogs, and anatomical study of proximal duodenal vascularisation.

OBJECTIVES: Proximal duodenal ulceration is often characterised by continuous bleeding, and treatment is challenging. The aims of this study were to investigate the role of vascularisation in proximal duodenal ulceration and describe clinical aspects, endoscopic features and treatment in dogs. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Polyurethane foam casts of gastroduodenal vessels were obtained from five dogs which had died from disorders unrelated to the digestive system. In addition, 12 dogs having proximal duodenal ulcers diagnosed by endoscopic examination were enrolled in a treatment trial. After the endoscopic diagnosis of a duodenal ulcer, all the dogs were treated medically and, in the absence of resolution, were subsequently treated by endoscopic electrocauterisation or by surgery. RESULTS: A submucosal vascular network was evident in all the casts, with a prominent venous plexus seen exclusively in the first half inch of the duodenum. In clinical cases, on endoscopic examination, the duodenal ulcer was located at the proximal part of the duodenum, involving the mesenteric portion of the wall. The dogs not responding to medical treatment (6/12) were treated with endoscopic electrocauterisation, surgical coagulation or resection of the proximal duodenal portion. All the dogs survived until discharge, and the median survival time following discharge was 107.5 days. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Based on the anatomical details highlighted in this study, the continuous bleeding observed in our patients may have been due to the prominent venous plexus evidenced at the level of the proximal duodenum. Surgical and endoscopic treatments in six patients resolved the ulcer bleeding with no recurrences noted during follow-up.

The effects of colostrum consumption and feed restriction during marketing and transportation of male dairy beef calves: Impact on pre-transport nutritional status and on farm recovery.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of colostrum consumption and feed restriction on biomarkers of stress, nutritional and health status, gut functionality, and behavior in male dairy beef calves being marketed and transported. A total of 82 male Holstein calves (42 ± 1.2 kg of body weight and 14 ± 0.9 d of age) were used to study the amount of colostrum given at birth at the dairy farm of origin, the degree of feed restriction suffered at an assembly center simulation (d -4 to d -1), and the effects of a 19 h transportation (d -1). Treatments were as follows: control calves (CTRL; n = 16) were fed 10 L of colostrum at the dairy farm of origin, milk replacer (MR) and concentrate at the assembly center, and were not transported; calves fed high colostrum and milk replacer (HCMR; n = 17) were given 10 L of colostrum at the dairy farm of origin, MR at the assembly center, and transported; calved fed high colostrum and rehydrating solution (HCRS; n = 16) were given 10 L of colostrum at the dairy farm of origin, a rehydrating solution (RS) at the assembly center, and transported; calves fed low colostrum and milk replacer (LCMR; n = 17) were given 2 L of colostrum at the dairy farm of origin, MR at the assembly center, and transported; and calves fed low colostrum and rehydrating solution (LCRS; n = 16) were given 2 L of colostrum at the dairy farm of origin, RS at the assembly center, and transported. Transported calves mimic a 19-h transportation. After transport, all calves were fed 2.5 L of MR twice daily and had ad libitum access to concentrate, straw, and water. Calves' recovery was followed for 7 d. Concentrate intake and health records were collected daily from d -4 until d 7 and body weight (BW) and blood samples were collected on d -4, -1, 0, 1, 2, and 7 of the study. Results showed that the feeding regimen provided at the assembly center reduced BW for the HCRS and LCRS calves compared with the CTRL, HCMR, and LCMR calves. Concentrate intake peaked on d 0 in the transported calves, followed by a reduction of intake on d 1 after transportation. Concentrate intake recovery was lower for the LCRS and LCMR calves. On d -1, nonesterified fatty acids and ß-hydroxybutyrate concentrations were greater for the HCRS and LCRS calves compared with the CTRL, HCMR, and HCRS calves. After transportation, serum Cr-EDTA concentration was greater for the HCRS and LCRS calves than the HCMR, LCMR, and CTRL calves. The LCRS calves had the lowest serum concentration of citrulline. Finally, health scores were greater for the LCRS calves from d 0 to 7. In summary, both the greatest degree of feed restriction during the assembly center and the low colostrum consumption at birth negatively affected the recovery of concentrate consumption and BW, gut functionality, health status, and behavior in calves after arrival at the rearing farm.

Evaluation of potential biomarkers to determine adequate colostrum provision in male dairy-beef calves upon arrival at the rearing facility beyond 14 days of age.

Colostrum consumption is crucial for passive immunization and development of the newborn calf. However, the incidence on failed transfer of passive immunity in male calves destined to dairy-beef production remains high to date. In addition, the lack of an automated procedure to validate the immunization status upon arrival at rearing facilities in calves beyond 14 d of age impedes the identification of failed transfer of passive immunity, and therefore, of those calves at high risk of suffering diseases. For this study, 82 newborn male Holstein calves (43.3 ± 0.86 kg of body weight; mean ± standard error) from a commercial dairy farm were used to investigate potential serum biomarkers of colostrum provision. The potential biomarkers selected were IgG, IgG1, cholesterol, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and total protein (TP). Treatments were as follows: high-colostrum (HC; n = 49), in which calves received 4 L of colostrum within the first 2 h after birth and 2 L of colostrum in the next 3 feedings within the first 24 h after birth, for a total of 10 L of colostrum; and low-colostrum (LC; n = 33), in which calves received only 2 L of colostrum within the first 2 h after birth. After colostrum consumption, calves were allocated to individual hutches and fed 2 L of milk replacer twice daily at a concentration of 125 g/L as fed. Starter feed and water were offered ad libitum. At approximately 14 d of age (14.2 ± 0.81 d of age; mean ± standard error) calves were transported 2.5 h to a research unit at IRTA (Torre Marimon, Spain) simulating the arrival to a rearing facility. Blood samples were collected before feeding at birth, 48 h after birth, and at arrival to the rearing facility. Results on the serum concentrations of the potential biomarkers at arrival to the rearing facility showed that IgG, IgG1, GGT, and TP were greater for the HC calves compared with the LC calves. Serum concentrations of cholesterol and alkaline phosphatase did not show differences between treatment groups. Additionally, body weight losses from birth until arrival to the rearing facility were greater for the LC treatment compared with the HC. Because of their low cost, quickness, and ease of measurement, GGT and TP were good indicators of colostrum intake in calves arriving at rearing facilities beyond 14 d of age.

Lymphadenectomy improves outcome in dogs with resected Kiupel high-grade cutaneous mast cell tumours and overtly metastatic regional lymph nodes.

INTRODUCTION: Historically, the prognosis for dogs with stage II Kiupel high-grade cutaneous mast cell tumours has been considered poor. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to explore the impact of lymphadenectomy on outcome in dogs with Kiupel high-grade cutaneous mast cell tumours and overt regional lymph node metastasis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data from dogs with completely staged Kiupel high-grade cutaneous mast cell tumours with overt and/or certain regional lymph node metastasis undergoing excision of the primary tumours and adjuvant medical treatment were extracted. Dogs with a cytological diagnosis of regional lymph node metastasis that did not undergo lymphadenectomy were compared with dogs that underwent lymphadenectomy and had a histological diagnosis of overt lymph node metastasis. RESULTS: Forty-nine dogs were included, 18 did not undergo lymphadenectomy while 31 underwent lymphadenectomy. Median time to progression was significantly shorter in dogs that did not undergo lymphadenectomy (150 days, 95% confidence interval: 129 to 170) compared to the other dogs (229 days, 95% confidence interval: 191 to 266). Median survival time was also shorter in dogs that did not undergo lymphadenectomy (250 days, 95% confidence interval: 191 to 308) compared to dogs that underwent lymphadenectomy (371 days, 95% confidence interval: 311 to 430). On multivariable analysis, lack of lymphadenectomy was associated with higher risk of overall tumour progression (hazard ratio: 2.05, 95% confidence interval: 1.02 to 4.13), nodal progression (hazard ratio: 3.4, 95% confidence interval: 1.65 to 7.02) and tumour-related death (hazard ratio 3.63, 95% confidence interval: 1.72 to 7.66), whereas tumour size was associated with higher risk of local recurrence (hazard ratio: 3.61, 95% confidence interval: 1.06 to 13). CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Regional lymphadenectomy may improve outcome in dogs with biologically aggressive cutaneous mast cell tumours.

Otodental syndrome: Case report and differential diagnosis with Treacher Collins syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Otodental syndrome and Treacher Collins syndrome are rare diseases that have similar clinical features, which can complicate the diagnostic process. These syndromes cause skeletal and dental abnormalities, the differential diagnosis can be based on clinical signs but only the genetic analysis can confirm it. The aim of this case report is to describe and compare clinical signs of these syndromes. CASE REPORT: A 7-year-old patient came to our department: he presented abnormal tooth shapes and sizes, delayed teeth replacement and micrognathia. After extra- and intra-oral examination and radiographic exams, a clinical diagnosis of otodental syndrome was made, and a genetic testing was requested to confirm the diagnosis. CONCLUSION: Dental management of patients with otodental syndrome is challenging due to agenesis, teeth malformation, lack of space for permanent dentition. Proper treatment decision is crucial to obtain the best result for the patient.

Simulation of feed restriction and fasting: Effects on animal recovery and gastrointestinal permeability in unweaned Angus-Holstein calves.

Feed restriction and fasting experienced during commercial production negatively affect unweaned calves' behavior and health status. Transportation and stays at assembly centers are the main factors generating these disorders. For this study, 20 unweaned Angus-Holstein bull calves [44.1 ± 2.04 kg of body weight (BW) and 14.7 ± 0.63 d of age (± standard error)] were used to evaluate the effects of feed restriction and fasting on performance, energy status [serum concentration of glucose, ß-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), and nonesterified fatty acids], and gastrointestinal permeability [serum concentration of citrulline, chromium (Cr)-EDTA, lactulose, and d-mannitol]. Calves were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatments that simulated the feed restrictions of an assembly center situation on one hand, and the fasting hours during transportation on the other. Treatments were as follows. Control (CT): from d -4 to -1, calves were fed 2.5 L of milk replacer (MR) twice daily; concentrate and straw were offered ad libitum. Mild (MD): calves were fed only MR (d -4 to -1) as described for CT, and on d -1 calves were subjected to a 9-h feed withdrawal. Moderate (MO): calves were fed only MR (d -4 to -1) as described for CT and on d -1 subjected to a 19-h feed withdrawal. Severe (SV): calves were fed only 2.5 L of a rehydrating solution twice daily (d -4 to -1) and on d -1 subjected to a 19-h feed withdrawal. From d 0 to d 42 (weaning) all calves were fed the same feeding program (MR, concentrate, and straw ad libitum). Results showed that BW was greater for the CT treatment compared with the others from d 0 to d 7, whereas BW of SV was lesser compared with the others from d -1 to d 7. No differences among treatments were observed at weaning. At d 2 concentrate intakes of MD, MO, and SV were lesser compared with CT. By d 4, concentrate intake of SV was similar to that for CT and greater than MD and MO. Similarly to BW, no differences in concentrate intake among treatments were observed at weaning on d 42 of the study. At d -1 for SV and d 0 in all restricted calves, serum glucose concentration was lesser compared with CT. At d -1 and 0, nonesterified fatty acids and BHB serum concentrations were greater in the SV calves compared with the other treatments. By d 2, serum concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids, BHB, and glucose were restored to CT levels. At d -1 serum citrulline concentration was lesser in SV and greater in MD calves. The CT calves had lower serum concentrations of Cr-EDTA (d -1 and d 0), lactulose (d 0), and d-mannitol (d 0) compared with the other restricted calves. Results showed that degree of dietary restriction, type of liquid diet (MR or rehydrating solution), and fasting hours (9 vs. 19 h) affected calves' BW, concentrate intake, and serum concentration of markers indicative of energy status and gastrointestinal permeability.

Two different approaches for novel extracapsular cranial cruciate ligament reconstruction: an in vitro kinematics study.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the best combination of isometric points with the best kinematic results between two different approaches of TightRope® cranial cruciate ligament reconstruction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cranial drawer, cranial tibial thrust, internal/external, range of motion and varus/valgus tests were passively performed in different stifle conditions: cranial cruciate ligament-intact/deficient, after F2-T2/F2-T3 TR reconstruction at 22-44-99 N of tension. Data were acquired by a custom-made navigation system. RESULTS: The cranial drawer test showed recovery of laxity only at 99 N in both approaches. Significant laxity reduction (cranial tibial thrust) was present at only the F2-T2 point. Differences were noted in internal/external and varus/valgus rotation between the cranial cruciate ligament-intact and TightRope® stifles at all of the implant tensions. The range of motion underlined significantly lower laxity values following the F2-T2/F2-T3 reconstruction at all of the evaluated implant tensions. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The best isometric site was at the F2-T2 point, however significant differences in the amount of laxity between the two techniques were limited to the cranial tibial thrust and internal/external test. The F2-T2 technique was the best consideration for clinical application because it is relatively easy to perform, repeatable and results in good stifle stability with low morbidity and complications.

Levels of chemerin and interleukin 8 in the synovial fluid of patients with inflammatory arthritides and osteoarthritis.

OBJECTIVES: Chemerin and interleukin (IL)-8 are pro-inflammatory mediators whose role in joint inflammation and cartilage degradation has been demonstrated in in-vitro findings. Studies on their presence in synovial fluid (SF) samples may offer further information on their pathogenic role. The aim of this study was to investigate SF chemerin and IL-8 levels in patients with different joint diseases. METHODS: 37 patients were enrolled: 18 with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 8 with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and 11 with osteoarthritis (OA). 41 SF samples were obtained by arthrocentesis in case of knee synovitis. Serum samples were obtained from 13 patients (4 with RA, 6 with PsA and 3 with OA) at the time of arthrocentesis. Chemerin, IL-8, TNF-α and IL-6 levels were measured using commercially available ELISA kits. Immunohistochemical analysis of synovial RA specimens was also performed. RESULTS: No difference in chemerin SF levels emerged between patients with immune-mediated inflammatory arthritides and those with OA (p=0.0656), while subjects with inflammatory arthritis displayed significantly higher levels of SF IL-8 compared to OA (p=0.0020). No significant difference emerged across the three conditions in the serum levels of both chemerin and IL-8. IL-8 strongly correlated with inflammatory markers as ESR, CRP, IL-6 and TNF-α. CONCLUSIONS: We observed similar chemerin SF and serum levels in the three conditions. Although flawed by some limitations, our findings support the emerging concept of OA as an inflammatory disorder. However the increased IL-8 levels we described in patients with inflammatory arthritis suggest a selective involvement of this pro-inflammatory and angiogenic cytokine in these conditions.

Surgical induction of metacarpal synostosis for treatment of ectrodactyly in a dog.

Ectrodactyly is a rare developmental anomaly of the distal part of the forelimb. It is characterized by the presence of an abnormal longitudinal soft tissue and osseous separation or cleft between the digits and the metacarpal bones. It can be associated with hypoplasia, aplasia and malformation of one or more bones of the antebrachium, carpus, metacarpus and digits. Unilateral ectrodactyly and moderate lameness were diagnosed in a young female dog. The dog was treated surgically with reconstruction of soft tissues and stabilization of the metacarpal bones by two nylon cerclage sutures. After three years a mild residual lameness was present. Radiographic signs of synostosis between the metacarpal bones II, III and IV with presence of a cleft between carpal bones II and III were observed.

Double-J ureteral stenting in nine cats with ureteral obstruction.

Ureteral stenting is a common practice in human medicine and has recently been reported in dogs and cats to provide urinary diversion for ureteral obstructions caused by ureteroliths, strictures, neoplasia, and in an attempt to prevent postoperative complications following ureteral anastomosis. The aim of this report is to describe a surgical technique of ureteral stenting and the follow-up and complications in nine cats. Number 3 French double-J catheters were used during open surgery for ureterotomy/ureterolith removal in eight cats and for segmental ureterectomy/end-to-end anastomosis in one cat for a localized benign stricture. Neoureterocystostomy was necessary in eight of the cats. Uroperitoneum did not occur. Stents were still in place in 7/9 animals after 357-1,565 days (median 1,277 days). A minor complication (stent migration) occurred in one cat, but stent removal was not required. Major complications were encrustation and persistent stranguria (in one cat each), requiring stent removal at 90 and 123 days, respectively. The first cat had a new stent inserted but was euthanased 3 months later for progressive renal failure. Despite the small number of cats, both the outcome and long-term stent tolerance observed in most cases suggest that ureteral stenting is a safe, adjunctive measure to ureteral surgery, mainly for concomitant ureteral and renal pelvic stones to prevent further obstruction and avoid pyelotomy/nephrotomy. However, smaller stents should be used to decrease the need for ureteral surgery.

The use of fentanyl-patch in dogs undergoing spinal surgery: plasma concentration and analgesic efficacy.

Objectives of this study were to evaluate plasma concentrations and analgesic efficacy of fentanyl administered transdermically in dogs undergoing spinal surgery. At the end of the surgery and before awakening, a fentanyl-patch was applied and was maintained in situ for 72 h. Blood samples were taken before the application of the patch, at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 18, 24, 32, 40, 48, 60, and 72 h after application and then 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 h after its removal. Before each blood sampling, pain evaluation was carried out using the Glasgow pain score, appropriately modified. Plasma concentrations of fentanyl were determined using a specific immuno-enzymatic kit. In this study, the minimum analgesic plasma concentration (0.23 ng/mL) required to achieve analgesia in human and considered to apply also for dogs was reached in all animals. No animal showed pain in the range of 'intense pain'; in two cases, the level of the pain was slight or moderate. No undesired effects were found. Results suggest that the use of transdermic patches could represent a valid aid in pain therapy in small animals; in particular, it contributes to the postoperative well-being of patients undergoing major surgery.

[Simultaneous ultrasonography and arthroscopy for the study of the joint environment: indications and limits]. / Ecografia e artroscopia in contemporanea per lo studio dell'ambiente articolare: indicazioni e limiti.

Arthroscopy is a mini-invasive technique that allows the direct observation of the joint cavity and the execution of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures; arthroscopy needs a very long learning-time curve as well as dedicated spaces and instruments. Ultrasonography is an imaging technique that enables to perform an immediate extension of the standard physical examination. The opportunity to visualize soft tissues, to obtain multiplanar and dynamic images in real time makes this practice easy repeatable at low costs. Ultrasonography allows to detect a variety of changes during inflammatory processes. The wide experience in arthroscopy of rheumatic patients acquired through the years by our team at the G. Pini Institute led us to study in vivo, during arthroscopy, the correspondence between arthroscopic and ultrasonographic images. Up to now three knee arthroscopies have been conducted with the double equipment (ultrasonographic and arthroscopic devices) in operating room. In our experience, the combination of the two methods in operating room may improve the validation of ultrasonography with arthroscopy as gold standard, helps to train the ultrasonographer to give immediate answers in order to clear the doubts aroused by ultrasonographic images; it also allows the arthroscopist to visualize the deeper layers of the synovial membrane making double guided targeted biopsies possible. Limits are the complexity of the procedure (instruments, operators, spaces, training of the doctors), the loose of power-doppler signal with the blood tourniquet and the always difficult evaluation of cartilage.