Management of penetrating thoracic wounds from a dog attack in a Nigerian dwarf goat: A case report.

Pet goat ownership has gradually increased in popularity and veterinarians are expected to provide gold-standard treatments for these animals. As in small-animal practice, decision-making regarding thoracic bite injuries is challenging because of the variability in clinical, radiographic, and surgical findings. Mortality rates from dog bite wounds in small animals range between 15.3 and 17.7%, and these cases represent 10% of all traumatic injuries referred to an emergency service; such information is not available regarding pet goats. The aim of this report is to describe a thoracic dog bite wound in a goat. It details the clinical, radiographic, and surgical findings and the repair, and reports the successful outcome, all to provide information to small-ruminant practitioners for treatment or referral. Future retrospective studies will help to determine prognostic factors for outcomes in goats with thoracic dog bite wounds. Key clinical message: Thoracic bite wounds are a challenge to manage, considering the potential severe underlying pathology and the absence of clear external injuries or clinical signs. Referring veterinarians and owners should be advised that goats with the presence of flail chest, pneumothorax, or rib fractures may require a higher level of intervention.

Prise en charge des plaies thoraciques pénétrantes consécutives à une attaque de chien chez une chèvre naine nigériane : rapport de cas. La possession de chèvres de compagnie a progressivement gagné en popularité et les vétérinaires devraient fournir des traitements de référence pour ces animaux. Tout comme dans la pratique des petits animaux, la prise de décision concernant les morsures thoraciques est difficile en raison de la variabilité des résultats cliniques, radiographiques et chirurgicaux. Les taux de mortalité par morsure de chien chez les petits animaux varient entre 15,3 et 17,7 %, et ces cas représentent 10 % de toutes les blessures traumatiques référées à un service d'urgence; ces informations ne sont pas disponibles concernant les chèvres de compagnie. Le but de ce rapport est de décrire une morsure thoracique de chien chez une chèvre. Il détaille les résultats cliniques, radiographiques et chirurgicaux ainsi que la réparation, et rend compte du résultat positif, le tout dans le but de fournir des informations aux praticiens des petits ruminants pour un traitement ou une référence. De futures études rétrospectives aideront à déterminer les facteurs pronostiques des résultats chez les chèvres présentant des morsures thoraciques de chien.Message clinique clé :Les morsures thoraciques sont un défi à gérer, compte tenu de la pathologie sous-jacente potentiellement grave et de l'absence de blessures externes ou de signes cliniques évidents. Les vétérinaires référents et les propriétaires doivent être informés que les chèvres présentant un volet thoracique, un pneumothorax ou des fractures des côtes peuvent nécessiter un niveau d'intervention plus élevé.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Association of plasma metabolites and diagnostic imaging findings with hepatic lipidosis in bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) and effects of gemfibrozil therapy.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the association between plasma metabolites, biochemical analytes, diagnostic imaging findings, and the histologic diagnosis of hepatic lipidosis in bearded dragons. To assess the effects of gemfibrozil therapy on hepatic lipid accumulation and associated diagnostic tests. ANIMALS: Fourteen bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) with varying severity of hepatic lipid accumulation (with and without hepatic lipidosis) were included. PROCEDURES: Animals underwent coelomic ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scans, and coelioscopic hepatic biopsies. Clinical pathology tests included lipidologic tests, hepatic biomarkers, and mass spectrometry-based metabolomics. Animals were medicated with gemfibrozil 6mg/kg orally once a day for 2 months in a randomized blinded clinical trial prior to repeating previous diagnostic testing. RESULTS: Hounsfield units on CT were negatively associated with increased hepatic vacuolation, while ultrasound and gross evaluation of the liver were not reliable. Beta-hydroxybutyric-acid (BHBA) concentrations were significantly associated with hepatic lipidosis. Metabolomics and lipidomics data found BHBA and succinic acid to be potential biomarkers for diagnosing hepatic lipidosis in bearded dragons. Succinic acid concentrations were significantly lower in the gemfibrozil treatment group. There was a tendency for improvement in the biomarkers and reduced hepatic fat in bearded dragons with hepatic lipidosis when treated with gemfibrozil, though the improvement was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide information on the antemortem assessment of hepatic lipidosis in bearded dragons and paves the way for further research in diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Treatment of a cystocele in a female dog 3 days after whelping.

A case of a cystocele is reported in a 3-year-old intact female Doberman pinscher. The urinary bladder and vaginal body were reduced within the abdominal cavity and secured by cystopexy and cervicopexy allowing the uterus and ovaries to be spared. This is the first report describing the surgery for a cystocele in a young female dog 3 days after whelping, with sparing of the reproductive tract. Key clinical message: This is the first report to describe a cystocele in a young intact female dog after whelping with sparing of the female reproductive tract.

Traitement d'une cystocèle chez une chienne 3 jours après la mise bas. Un cas de cystocèle est rapporté chez une femelle Doberman pinscher intacte de 3 ans. La vessie et le corps vaginal ont été réduits dans la cavité abdominale et sécurisés par cystopexie et cervicopexie permettant d'épargner l'utérus et les ovaires. Il s'agit du premier rapport décrivant la chirurgie d'une cystocèle chez une jeune chienne trois jours après la mise bas, avec préservation de l'appareil reproducteur.Message clinique clé :Il s'agit du premier rapport décrivant une cystocèle chez une jeune chienne intacte après mise bas avec préservation de l'appareil reproducteur femelle.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Assessment of laparoscopic working space in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) undergoing carbon dioxide insufflation at different intra-abdominal pressures.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate pneumoperitoneal volumes (laparoscopic working space) in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) undergoing pneumoperitoneum via carbon dioxide insufflation at different intra-abdominal pressures (IAPs) (4, 6, and 8 mm Hg) and recumbencies (dorsal, right lateral, and left lateral). ANIMALS: Six 3- to 4-month-old sexually intact female Hartley guinea pigs. PROCEDURES: Guinea pigs were anesthetized, intubated, and had an abdominal insufflation catheter placed. A baseline abdominal CT scan was performed. Guinea pigs underwent insufflation, with each IAP given in a random order for 10 to 15 minutes with a washout period of 5 minutes between pressures. Abdominal CT scans were acquired at each IAP and at each recumbency. Pneumoperitoneal volumes were calculated using software. RESULTS: Increases in IAP increased working space significantly (P < .001). The 6- and 8-mm Hg pressures increased working space from 4 mm Hg by 7.3% and 19.8%, respectively. Recumbent positioning (P = .60) and body weight (P = .73) did not affect working space. Order of IAP had a significant (P = .006) effect on working space. One of the guinea pigs experienced oxygen desaturation and bradycardia at 6- and 8-mm Hg IAP. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Although an increased working space occurred at 6 and 8 mm Hg compared to 4 mm Hg, further research is needed concerning the cardiovascular effects of pneumoperitoneum in guinea pigs to determine whether those higher IAPs are safe in this species. An IAP of 6 mm Hg can be considered for laparoscopic cannula placement, followed by a lower IAP for laparoscopic procedures.

Bilateral thoracic radiographs increase lesion detection in horses with pneumonia or pulmonary neoplasia but do not bring any additional benefit for inflammatory or diffuse pulmonary disease.

Published studies describing the effects of bilateral radiographic projections on the detection of equine pulmonary lesions are currently lacking. The objectives of this retrospective, single center, observational study were to compare unilateral and bilateral thoracic radiographic projections for the detection of pulmonary lesions in a group of horses. Based on their clinical diagnosis, 167 adults and foals with bilateral thoracic radiographs were classified as having pneumonia (n = 88), inflammatory or diffuse pulmonary disease (n = 72), and pulmonary masses (n = 7). After an initial interrater repeatability test, right-to-left and left-to-right projections were anonymized and independently interpreted by a radiologist blinded to the clinical diagnosis. Scores were attributed for each pattern/lesion (alveolar, interstitial, bronchial, nodules/masses, cavitary lesions) and each quadrant. Agreement between scores from each projection was evaluated with Bland-Altman plots. Lesions identified on one side but not on the contralateral projection were considered discordant. There was no preferential lateralization of pulmonary lesions. The prevalence of discordance was 14.4%, 9.0%, and 4.2% for alveolar pattern, nodules/masses, and cavitary lesions, respectively. Up to nine horses (10.2%) with pneumonia could have been misdiagnosed. A pulmonary mass would have been missed in one case. For inflammatory or diffuse disease, discordance was slight, and the addition of contralateral projections had no impact on radiographic interpretation. In conclusion, in horses with pneumonia or neoplasia, bilateral projections, or adding at least one contralateral caudoventral view, increased the probability of identifying pulmonary lesions. In horses with inflammatory or diffuse disease, bilateral thoracic radiography provided no additional benefit.

Validation of a Novel Ultrasound Simulation Model for Teaching Foundation-Level Ultrasonography Skills to Veterinary Students.

Veterinary ultrasonography is a complex, advanced skill requiring repetitive exposure and supervision to gain competence. Consequently, newly graduated veterinarians are underprepared and lack the resources to achieve basic ultrasound proficiency upon graduation. Ultrasound simulation has been proposed as an adjunct educational tool for teaching entry-level ultrasound skills to student veterinarians. The objectives of this multicentric prospective observational cohort study were to describe the development of a novel ultrasound training model, establish model construct and face validity, and seek participant feedback. The model was constructed using three-dimensional silicone shapes embedded in ballistics gel within a glass container. A novice cohort of 15 veterinary students and 14 expert participants were prospectively enrolled in the study. Each cohort underwent training and assessment phases using a simulation model. Participants were asked to (a) determine shape location, (b) identify shape type using a shape bank, and (c) measure shape axes using the caliper tool. Time for each phase was recorded. Anonymous post-participation survey feedback was obtained. For most shapes (4/6), experts performed significantly better than novices in identifying shape type and location. Generally, no significant difference was found in mean axis shape measurements between cohorts or compared to the true mean axis measurements. No significant difference was found in scan time for either phase. This study's results support the validation of this ultrasound simulation model and may demonstrate early evidence for its use as a training tool in the veterinary curriculum to teach entry-level ultrasound skills.

Development and Validation of a Three-Dimensional Printed Training Model to Teach Ultrasound-Guided Injections of the Cervical Articular Process Joints in Horses.

Intra-articular injections are routinely performed to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in horses. Intra-articular injections require accurate needle placement to optimize clinical outcomes and minimize complications. This study's objectives were to develop and validate a three-dimensional (3D) printed model of an equine cervical articular process joint to teach ultrasound-guided injections. Five identical models of an equine cervical articular process joint were 3D printed and embedded in 10% ballistic gelatin. Experts' and novices' ability to successfully insert a needle into the joint space of the model using ultrasound guidance was assessed and graded using an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE). Scores from experts and novices were compared to evaluate the construct validity of the model. Participants also answered a survey assessing the face and content validity of the model. Experts required less time (22.51 seconds) for correct needle placement into the model joint space than novices (35.96 seconds); however, this difference was not significant (p = .53). Experts' median total OSCE score (14) was significantly higher (p = .03) than novices' (12), supporting the model's construct validity. Participants agreed on the face and content validity of the model by grading all survey questions greater than 7 on a 10-point Likert-type scale. In summary, we successfully developed a 3D printed model of an equine cervical articular process joint, partially demonstrated the construct validity of the model, and proved the face and content validity of this new training tool.

Development of renal adenocarcinoma in a ferret with renal cortical cysts (Mustela putorius furo).

CASE DESCRIPTION: A 5.5-year-old 0.929-kg spayed female domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo) underwent serial abdominal ultrasonographic and clinicopathologic examinations after multiple renal cysts were detected bilaterally during a routine examination. CLINICAL FINDINGS: The ferret was apparently healthy at the start of the monitoring period and had no clinical signs for > 20 months. Four months after the initial examination, the largest cyst became increasingly mineralized; 17 months after detection, it had increased in size and become amorphous, and the ferret's plasma BUN concentration was mildly high. Within 21 months after the first visit, a nodule was detectable, and hydronephrosis developed in the kidney with the largest cyst. Findings for fine-needle aspirates from the nodule were consistent with renal carcinoma. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME: Contrast-enhanced CT revealed severe unilateral nephromegaly with no contrast uptake in the affected ureter. Following surgical removal of the affected kidney, histologic examination identified renal adenocarcinoma replacing the entire renal cortex and medulla. The ferret was euthanized postoperatively because of declining condition. On necropsy, metastasis to a mesenteric lymph node was identified; comorbidities included 2 other neoplasms and acute, severe injury of the contralateral kidney. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Neoplastic transformation of a renal cyst was suspected in the ferret of this report on the basis of observed ultrasonographic changes over time and extensive infiltration of the neoplasm throughout the affected kidney. Renal cysts are linked to renal neoplasia in other species, and the findings for this patient supported the need for periodic monitoring of renal cysts in ferrets.

Hematuria in a 3-month-old filly with an internal umbilical abscess and internal iliac artery aneurysm.

A 3-month-old foal with a history of acute hematuria was evaluated. Hydronephrosis and hydroureter were visualized upon renal ultrasonography of the left kidney. Cystoscopy identified a blood clot occluding the left ureter. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a large retroperitoneal abscess at the level of the aortic bifurcation and a left internal iliac aneurysm. Due to the severity of the lesions and the poor prognosis, the filly was euthanized and the clinical findings were confirmed by post-mortem examination. This report emphasizes the value of obtaining a precise diagnosis via CT in order to avoid unviable treatment approaches when confronted with this unusual secondary complication of omphaloarteritis. Key clinical message: Umbilical complications are routinely diagnosed in equine neonatal medicine, and commonly lead to septicemia, physitis, and septic arthritis; severe internal umbilical abscessation, and subsequent vascular and urinary disorders are uncommon sequelae.

Hématurie chez une pouliche de 3 mois avec abcès ombilical interne et anévrisme de l'artère iliaque interne. Un poulain de 3 mois ayant des antécédents d'hématurie aiguë a été évalué. L'hydronéphrose et l'hydro-uretère ont été visualisés par échographie rénale du rein gauche. La cystoscopie a identifié un caillot sanguin obstruant l'uretère gauche. La tomodensitométrie (TDM) a révélé un gros abcès rétropéritonéal au niveau de la bifurcation aortique et un anévrisme iliaque interne gauche. En raison de la gravité des lésions et du mauvais pronostic, la pouliche a été euthanasiée et les résultats cliniques ont été confirmés par un examen post-mortem. Ce rapport souligne l'intérêt d'obtenir un diagnostic précis par TDM afin d'éviter des approches thérapeutiques non-viables face à cette complication secondaire inhabituelle de l'omphalo-artérite.Message clinique clé :Les complications ombilicales sont couramment diagnostiquées en néonatalogie équine et conduisent généralement à une septicémie, une épiphysite et une arthrite septique; un abcès ombilical interne sévère et des troubles vasculaires et urinaires subséquents sont des séquelles peu fréquentes.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Soft tissue sarcoma at the site of a previous laparoscopic-assisted gastropexy in a dog.

An 8-year-old, spayed female, Doberman pinscher dog was presented to the Ontario Veterinary College Health Sciences Center for evaluation of a large subcutaneous mass on the right cranial ventral abdomen. Computed tomography localized a 6 × 7 cm soft tissue mass to the site of a laparoscopic-assisted gastropexy performed 3 years earlier. Body wall resection with wide surgical margins was performed. Histological evaluation identified the mass as a grade III soft tissue sarcoma with clean surgical margins. To the authors' knowledge, this report is the first to detail a case of a soft tissue sarcoma that is suspected to have originated at and/or infiltrated into tissues that were previously incised during a surgical procedure. Key clinical message: Based on this case, there is a possibility of a clinical correlate to the feline injection site sarcoma in the canine species.

Sarcome des tissus mous au site d'une gastropexie aidée par laparoscopie antérieure chez un chien. Une chienne Doberman pinscher stérilisée âgée de 8 ans fut présentée au Health Sciences Center de l'Ontario Veterinary College pour évaluation d'une large masse sous-cutanée au niveau de l'abdomen ventral crânial droit. Une tomodensitométrie permis de localiser une masse de tissus mous de 6 × 7 cm au site d'une gastropexie aidée par laparoscopie effectuée 3 ans plus tôt. Une résection de la paroi corporelle avec de larges bordures chirurgicales fut réalisée. Une évaluation histologique identifia la masse comme étant un sarcome des tissus mous de grade III avec des bordures chirurgicales nettes. À la connaissance des auteurs ce rapport est le premier à détailler un cas de sarcome des tissus mous qui est suspecté avoir son origine et/ou avoir infiltré des tissus qui furent précédemment incisés durant une procédure chirurgicale.Message clinique clé:Sur la base de ce cas, il y a possibilité d'une relation clinique avec le sarcome du site d'injection chez le chat chez l'espèce canine.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Laparoscopic ureteronephrectomy for the treatment of giant kidney worm infection in 2 dogs.

One male and one female dog were presented with giant kidney worm infection in the right kidney. Infection was identified through visualization of intra-renal Dioctophyme renale on abdominal ultrasound. Both dogs underwent right-sided laparoscopic ureteronephrectomy for treatment of the giant kidney worm infection. Additional adult worms were extirpated from the peritoneal cavity of both dogs. Both dogs recovered without complication from anesthesia and surgery and were discharged within 24 hours after surgery. Laparoscopic ureteronephrectomy has not previously been described for the treatment of giant kidney worm infection in North America.

Urétéro-néphrectomie laparoscopique pour le traitement d'une infection par le ver géant du rein chez deux chiens. Un chien mâle et un chien femelle furent présentés avec une infection par le ver géant du rein dans le rein droit. L'infection fut identifiée par visualisation de Dioctophyme renale intra-rénal par échographie abdominale. Les deux chiens furent soumis à une urétéro-néphrectomie laparoscopique pour le traitement de l'infection par le ver géant du rein. Des vers adultes additionnels furent retirés de la cavité péritonéale des deux chiens. Les deux chiens ont récupéré sans complication de l'anesthésie et de la chirurgie et ont obtenu leur congé en moins de 24 h après la chirurgie. L'urétéro-néphrectomie laparoscopique n'avait pas encore été décrite en Amérique du Nord pour le traitement de l'infection par le ver géant du rein.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Diagnosis and long-term management of post-traumatic seizures in a white-crowned pionus (Pionus senilis).

CASE DESCRIPTION: A 13-year-old female white-crowned pionus (Pionus senilis) was examined because of seizures 22 months after it was treated for a traumatic brain injury (TBI) characterized by vision loss, hemiparesis, nystagmus, circling, and head tilt. CLINICAL FINDINGS: Bloodwork performed during the initial seizure workup revealed hypercalcemia and hypercholesterolemia, which were attributed to vitellogenesis given the bird's previous egg-laying history and recent onset of reproductive behavior. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed diffuse right pallium atrophy with multifocal hydrocephalus ex vacuo, which were believed to be the result of the previous TBI. Findings were most consistent with post-traumatic seizures (PTS). TREATMENT AND OUTCOME: Levetiracetam (100 mg/kg [45 mg/lb], PO, q 12 h) was initiated for PTS management. A 4.7-mg deslorelin implant was injected SC to suppress reproductive behavior. The bird was reexamined for presumed status epilepticus 5 times over 22 months. Seizure episodes coincided with onset of reproductive behavior. The levetiracetam dosage was increased (150 mg/kg [68 mg/lb], PO, q 8 h), and zonisamide (20 mg/kg [9.1 mg/lb], PO, q 12 h) was added to the treatment regimen. Additional deslorelin implants were administered every 2 to 6 months to suppress reproductive behavior. The owner was trained to administer midazolam intranasally or IM as needed at home. The treatment regimen helped control but did not eliminate seizure activity. The bird was euthanized 22 months after PTS diagnosis for reasons unrelated to the TBI or PTS. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Long-term management of PTS in a pionus was achieved with levetiracetam and zonisamide administration.

In vitro elution of amikacin and Dispersin B from a polymer hydrogel.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the in vitro elution of amikacin and Dispersin B (ß-N-acetylglucosaminidase) in a degradable hydrogel. STUDY DESIGN: In vitro, prospective study. METHODS: Amikacin (group A; 40 mg/mL), Dispersin B (group D; 70 µg/mL), or combined amikacin and Dispersin B (group AD; 40 mg/mL and 70 µg/mL, respectively) were added to a hydrogel. Ten aliquots per group were incubated in phosphate-buffered saline that was exchanged at 1, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours and then once daily for 10 days. Eluted amikacin and Dispersin B were quantitated by using an amikacin reagent kit and a Dispersin B enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit, respectively. Time point drug concentrations were compared between groups by using repeated-measures analysis of variance, and total drug elution was compared by using an area under the curve calculation. RESULTS: Amikacin alone, Dispersin B alone, and amikacin and Dispersin B combined together underwent rapid elution in the first 24 hours, followed by a gradual decrease over 10 days. The concentration of Dispersin B eluted in group D was higher at 1 day and lower from day 5 to day 10 compared with that in group AD. The concentration of amikacin eluted in group A was higher at 1, 4, and 8 hours and on day 10 and lower on day 1 compared with that in group AD. The total elution of amikacin was greater from group AD compared with that from group A (P = .02). CONCLUSION: Combining amikacin and Dispersin B had an affect on the total elution of amikacin but not Dispersin B. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The combination of amikacin and Dispersin B in a degradable hydrogel could allow local treatment of complex infections without the requirement for multiple invasive procedures.

Diagnostic imaging of a basihyoid bone fracture and partial avulsion of the medial pterygoid muscle in a horse.

A 3-year-old gelding was presented for further evaluation and treatment of a swelling over the left mandible and inability to eat and drink. Radiographs of the mandible were unremarkable. Computed tomography (CT) of the head demonstrated a fracture of the basihyoid bone and partial avulsion of the medial pterygoid muscle. Ultrasound examination was performed to establish a baseline and confirmed the fracture. The gelding was managed conservatively, recovered uneventfully, and was able to return to training after 4 months of rest. Key clinical message: Computed tomography and ultrasonography in the horse provided information about injury to the basihyoid bone and insertion of the medial pterygoid muscle.

Diagnostic par imagerie d'une fracture de l'os basihyoïde et avulsion partielle du muscle ptérygoïde médial chez un cheval. Un cheval hongre âgé de 3 ans fut présenté pour évaluation et traitement d'enflure du mandibule gauche et inhabilité à manger et à boire. Des radiographies du mandibule ne montraient rien de particulier. La tomodensitométrie (CT) de la tête a montré une fracture de l'os basihyoïde et une avulsion partielle du muscle ptérygoïde médial. Une échographie fut effectué afin d'établir un seuil de base et confirmer la fracture. L'hongre a été géré de manière conservatrice, a récupéré sans complication, et a pu retourner à l'entraînement après 4 mois de repos.Message clinique important :La tomodensitométrie et l'échographie chez un cheval ont fourni de l'information sur une blessure à l'os basihyoïde et à l'insertion du muscle ptérygoïde médial.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Modeling and Staging of Osteoarthritis Progression Using Serial CT Imaging and Arthroscopy.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to describe in life methods by which osteoarthritis can be staged in order to time therapeutic interventions that are relevant to osteoarthritis (OA) clinical trials. METHODS: Twenty-two sheep underwent arthroscopic meniscal destabilization to induce OA. Serial computed tomography (CT) imaging and arthroscopy were used to monitor osteoarthritis progression at 3-month intervals over 9 months. Eleven sheep received 1 intra-articular injection of hyaluronate 3 months after OA induction and another group of 11 received saline. A linear mixed model was used to define the trajectory of shape change in the medial joint compartment. Ordinal logistic regression was used to investigate the association between morphological changes and sclerosis. RESULTS: Three months after meniscal destabilization there were early bipolar chondral lesions in the medial compartment of the knee, as well as osteophytes and bone remodeling. Superficial fissures and cartilage cracks progressed to discrete areas of cartilage thinning and fibrillation on the medial tibial plateau by 6 months that became cartilage erosions by nine months. A linear mixed effect model demonstrated significant change in medial compartment length and width with over time (P < 0.05) for both groups. A significant association between severity of sclerosis and medial compartment morphology was also observed. CONCLUSIONS: The induction of osteoarthritic lesions with meniscal release model can be followed using noninvasive and minimally invasive procedures allowing for real-time decisions about redosing therapies, or other changes such as extending trial timelines without sacrificing animals to conduct assessments.

Effects of intra-abdominal pressure on laparoscopic working space in domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effects of 3 intra-abdominal pressures (IAPs) on pneumoperitoneal (laparoscopic working space) volume in domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). ANIMALS: 6 female New Zealand White rabbits. PROCEDURES: A Latin-square design was used to randomly allocate sequences of 3 IAPs (4, 8, and 12 mm Hg) to each rabbit in a crossover study. Rabbits were anesthetized, subumbilical cannulae were placed, and CT scans were performed to obtain baseline measurements. Each IAP was achieved with CO2 insufflation and maintained for ≥ 15 minutes; CT scans were performed with rabbits in dorsal, left lateral oblique, and right lateral oblique recumbency. The abdomen was desufflated for 5 minutes between treatments (the 3 IAPs). Pneumoperitoneal volumes were calculated from CT measurements with 3-D medical imaging software. Mixed linear regression models evaluated effects of IAP, rabbit position, and treatment order on working space volume. RESULTS: Mean working space volume at an IAP of 8 mm Hg was significantly greater (a 19% increase) than that at 4 mm Hg, and was significantly greater (a 6.9% increase) at 12 mm Hg than that at 8 mm Hg. Treatment order, but not rabbit position, also had a significant effect on working space. Minor adverse effects reported in other species were observed in some rabbits. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: A nonlinear increase in abdominal working space was observed with increasing IAP. Depending on the type of procedure and visual access requirements, IAPs > 8 mm Hg may not provide a clinically important benefit for laparoscopy in rabbits.

Evaluation of minimally invasive small intestinal exploration and targeted abdominal organ biopsy with use of a wound retraction device in dogs: 27 cases (2010-2017).

OBJECTIVE: To describe surgical technique, biopsy sample quality, and short-term outcome of minimally invasive small intestinal exploration and targeted abdominal organ biopsy (MISIETB) with use of a wound retraction device (WRD) in dogs. ANIMALS: 27 client-owned dogs that underwent MISIETB with a WRD at 1 of 4 academic veterinary hospitals between January 1, 2010, and May 1, 2017. PROCEDURES: Medical records were retrospectively reviewed, and data collected included signalment; medical history; findings from physical, ultrasonographic, laparoscopic, cytologic, and histologic evaluations; surgical indications, procedures, duration, and complications; and short-term (14-day) outcomes. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to evaluate the normality of continuous variables, and descriptive statistics were calculated for numeric variables. RESULTS: Laparoscopic exploration was performed through a multicannulated single port (n = 18), multiple ports (5), or a single 6-mm cannula (4). Median length of the incision for WRD placement was 4 cm (interquartile [25th to 75th percentile] range, 3 to 6 cm). All biopsy samples obtained had sufficient diagnostic quality. The 2 most common histologic diagnoses were lymphoplasmacytic enteritis (n = 14) and intestinal lymphoma (5). Twenty-five of 27 (93%) dogs survived to hospital discharge, and 3 (12%) dogs had postsurgical abnormalities unrelated to surgical technique. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results indicated that MISIETB with WRD was an effective method for obtaining diagnostic biopsy samples of the stomach, small intestine, pancreas, liver, and mesenteric lymph nodes in dogs. Prospective comparison between MISIETB with WRD and traditional laparotomy for abdominal organ biopsy in dogs is warranted.

Gallbladder leiomyoma treated by laparoscopic cholecystectomy in a dog.

CASE DESCRIPTION: A 12-year-old spayed female Chinese Crested was referred because of a mass detected in the gallbladder during ultrasonographic evaluation of the abdomen, which had been prompted by a history of high serum liver enzyme activities. CLINICAL FINDINGS: Serum biochemical analysis revealed mild hypoglobulinemia and high alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyltransferase, and alanine aminotransferase activities. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed diffuse hepatopathy and multiple pedunculated mucosal structures within the gallbladder. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME: Following initial treatment with ursodiol (11.4 mg/kg [5.18 mg/lb], PO, q 12 h) and S-adenosylmethionine (30 mg/kg [13.6 mg/lb], PO, q 24 h) for 1 month to address possible cholestasis, no change was noted in ultrasonographic or serum biochemical findings. Consequently, laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed concurrently with laparoscopic liver biopsy. Histologic evaluation of resected gallbladder tissue and the liver biopsy specimen revealed evidence of multifocal to coalescing leiomyomas of the gallbladder and multifocal lipogranulomas of the liver. Eleven days after the dog was discharged from the hospital, it was taken to an emergency clinic because of anorexia, vomiting, and diarrhea. Mild pancreatitis or gastroenteritis was suspected, supportive treatment was provided, and ursodiol and S-adenosylmethionine administration was reinitiated. At the time of follow-up telephone contact with the owner 234 days after surgery, the dog continued to receive ursodiol and S-adenosylmethionine and had no clinical signs associated with hepatobiliary disease. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Leiomyomas, although rare, can develop in dogs and should be considered as a differential diagnosis for intramural gallbladder lesions. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy served as a minimally invasive surgical treatment for this benign neoplasia.

Diagnostic imaging characteristics of canine infectious sacroiliitis.

Infectious sacroiliitis has not been described in dogs. This retrospective case series describes the presentation, diagnostic imaging characteristics, and outcomes of 2 canine patients with infectious sacroiliitis. Selection criteria included presentation with back pain from 2010 to 2017, diagnostic imaging of the sacroiliac joints, and short- and long-term response to antibiotic therapy. Medical records, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were reviewed by a Board-certified veterinary radiologist, a neurologist, and a small animal intern. Two dogs met the inclusion criteria. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed unilaterally wide and irregular sacroiliac joint spaces, with juxta-articular soft tissue contrast enhancement and bone marrow edema. One patient had a communicating abscess of the psoas muscle, which cultured positive for Pasteurella canis. Following treatment with pain relief medications and antibiotics, both patients made a complete clinical recovery, with no signs of lameness 2 to 4 weeks after cessation of treatment, and no lameness reported by the owner afterwards. Infectious sacroiliitis should be considered when dogs are presented with lumbosacral pain.

Caractéristiques de l'imagerie diagnostique de la sacro-iliite infectieuse canine. La sacro-iliite infectieuse n'a pas été décrite chez les chiens. Cette série de cas rétrospectifs décrit la présentation, les caractéristiques de l'imagerie diagnostique et les résultats de deux patients canins atteints de sacro-iliite infectieuse. Les critères de sélection incluaient la présentation avec des douleurs au dos de 2010 à 2017, l'imagerie diagnostique des articulations sacro-iliaques et une réponse à court et à long terme à la thérapie aux antibiotiques. Les dossiers médicaux et l'imagerie à résonance magnétique (IRM) ont été évalués par un radiologiste vétérinaire agréé, un neurologue et un interne en médecine des petits animaux. Deux chiens satisfaisaient aux critères d'inclusion. L'imagerie à résonance magnétique a révélé des espaces d'articulation sacro-iliaque unilatéralement larges et irréguliers avec une augmentation de contraste des tissus mous juxta-articulaires et de l'oedème de la moelle osseuse. Le patient 2 avait un abcès communiquant du muscle psoas qui a révélé la présence de Pasteurella canis à la culture. Après un traitement avec des médicaments analgésiques et des antibiotiques, les deux patients ont connu un rétablissement clinique complet sans signes de boiterie de 2 à 4 semaines après l'arrêt du traitement et aucune boiterie n'a été signalée par la suite par le propriétaire. La sacro-iliite infectieuse devrait être considérée lorsque les chiens sont présentés avec des douleurs lombo-sacrées.(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).

Computed tomography measurements of intraocular structures of the feline eye.

Diagnostic imaging of the eye can be performed using ultrasonography, MRI or CT. This study describes the CT dimensions, volumes and radiodensities of presumed normal feline intraocular structures. Nineteen adult patients were included in this retrospective study. Fourteen males and five females were included, with domestic short hair (DSH) being the predominant breed. Length, volume and radiodensity values for the lens, anterior chamber, vitreous chamber and optic nerve were calculated as well as measurements of the optic nerve width. There was no significant correlation found on linear regression analysis comparing patient's body weight with the various ocular measurements. Measurements of the lens, globe and optic nerve had significant differences (P<0.05) noted between the sexes, with males having increased values. These results may be skewed due to the large majority of male patients in the study. There was a weak correlation found between age and right eye (OD) optic nerve width, with an increase in the optic nerve width noted with increasing age. The findings of this study are a first step in establishing CT reference values for feline intraocular structure measurements.