Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the ventricular system and brain parenchyma in healthy dogs of different skull conformation on computed tomography scans.

This study aimed to perform quantitative and qualitative evaluations of the lateral and third ventricles, and brain parenchyma, in healthy dogs of different skull conformations on CT scans. Forty-five adult client-owned dogs were divided into three groups according to skull conformation: G1 (dolichocephalic)-15 German Shepherds; G2 (mesaticephalic)-15 Rottweilers; G3 (brachycephalic)-15 Boxers. Transverse plane images were used for quantitative and qualitative evaluations of the lateral ventricles and third ventricle, and pre- and post-contrast brain parenchyma. The height of both ventricles and brain was measured at the level of the interthalamic adhesion. Ventricle height, brain height, and ventricle/brain height ratio were statistically higher in G3 compared with G1 and G2 that were similar. The third ventricle was visible but unmeasurable in five dogs from G1 and three from G2. In G3, all dogs had third ventricle visible and measurable in all images. Asymmetric ventricles were seen in five dogs in Group 1 and Group 2, and seven in Group 3. Brain parenchyma had homogenous density in 80% of the dogs in all groups. Contrast enhancement of the rostral midline was visualized in all dogs. In conclusion, brain CT scans of healthy dogs showed that the qualitative data were similar among groups, but lateral ventricle and brain measurements in brachycephalic dogs differed from the dolichocephalic and mesaticephalic dogs.

Approach to the humerus and femur of the paca (Cuniculus paca, Linnaeus 1766).

The paca (Cuniculus paca, Linnaeus 1766) is a rodent species, typical of tropical regions. It is important that in addition to its commercial value as a protein source, it can be used as a scientific scope. The objective of this study was to describe the morphology of the thigh and the arm of the paca by anatomical and imaging methodology with radiography (X-ray), computed tomography (CAT scan) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine the surgical approach of the bones of these regions. It was concluded that the imaging study through X-ray, CAT scan and MRI are reliable methods for anatomical description of wild animals that have little known about their morphology. Finally, similarly to dogs, it was determined that lateral access is the best approach to the femoral diaphysis and the medial access is the best approach to the humerus diaphysis of the paca.

Radiography and computed tomography of the heart and lower respiratory tract in toco toucans (Ramphastos toco).

This study aimed to evaluate normal features of the heart and lower respiratory tract in toco toucans by means of radiography and helical computed tomography (CT) scanner. Fifteen healthy adult toco toucans (Ramphastos toco), 10 females and 5 males, average body mass of 650 g were studied. CT examination as well as right lateral and ventrodorsal radiographic examinations of the coelomic cavity were performed under chemical restraint. Heart, lungs, air sacs, trachea and syrinx were analysed. The mean values of heart length, heart width and thoracic cavity in radiographs were, respectively, 23.76 mm, 25.94 mm and 48.87 mm. In both X-rays and CT scans, the lung parenchyma had honeycomb-like pattern. The topographic areas of the anterior and posterior air sacs were visualized as dark and air-filled spaces in X-rays. On CT evaluation, the air sacs occupied a larger area in the coelomic cavity compared to X-ray. In the lateral radiographic view, the cervical part of the trachea was positioned more ventrally in the transition from cervical to thoracic regions showing a V-shaped appearance. In all CT planes was visible division of the trachea into the right and left main bronchi at the level of 3rd thoracic vertebra. The syrinx was difficult to visualize in X-rays, but on CT it was easily identified in axial slice. In conclusion, the normal features of toco toucan's heart and lower respiratory tract that were determined on X-rays and CT scans are useful to compare with sick toco toucans, as well as other bird species.

A Rat Model of Neurocysticercosis-Induced Hydrocephalus: Chronic Progressive Hydrocephalus with Mild Clinical Impairment.

BACKGROUND: Hydrocephalus is the most common complication of extraparenchymal neurocysticercosis, combining obstructive and inflammatory mechanisms that impair cerebrospinal fluid circulation. METHODS: We studied the long-term progression of neurocysticercosis-induced hydrocephalus in a rat model. We generated an experimental rat model of neurocysticercosis-induced hydrocephalus by cisternal inoculation of cysts or antigens of Taenia crassiceps and compared it with the classic model of kaolin-induced hydrocephalus. We used 52 animals divided into 4 groups: 1) control, 2) neurocysticercosis-induced hydrocephalus by cysts or 3) by antigens, and 4) kaolin-induced hydrocephalus. We studied behavioral, radiologic, and morphologic alterations at 1 and 6 months after inoculation by open field test, magnetic resonance imaging, and immunohistochemical localization of aquaporin-4 (AQP-4). RESULTS: Behavioral changes were observed later in neurocysticercosis-induced than in kaolin-induced hydrocephalic rats (P = 0.023). The ventricular volume of hydrocephalus induced by experimental neurocysticercosis progressively evolved, with the magnetic resonance imaging changes being similar to those observed in humans. Periventricular inflammatory and astrocytic reactions were also observed. AQP-4 expression was higher in the sixth than in the first month after inoculation (P = 0.016) and also occurred in animals that received antigen inoculation but did not develop hydrocephalus, suggesting that AQP-4 may constitute an alternative route of cerebrospinal fluid absorption under inflammatory conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Our neurocysticercosis-induced hydrocephalus model allows for the long-term maintenance of hydrocephalic animals, involving mild clinical performance impairments, including body weight and behavioral changes.

Effect of Albendazole Treatment in an Experimental Model of Neurocysticercosis-Induced Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a major concern in neurocysticercosis (NCC), and its management is more challenging than that of hydrocephalus caused by other etiologies. Even though albendazole is a well-established drug for the treatment of NCC, the death of the parasites may worsen the clinical symptoms and eventually, deteriorate the course of hydrocephalus. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of treatment with albendazole on the course of hydrocephalus as well as on animal behavior in a ratmodel of NCC-induced hydrocephalus in order to verify whether the course of hydrocephalus and the animal behavior were changed. Ventricle volumes before and after treatment showed a slight but non-statistically significant difference (168.11 mm3 versus 184.98 mm3, p » 0.45). The distribution and location of the cysts were unaffected. In addition, the behavioral patterns before and after the treatment were not significantly different, as assessed by the open field test. On histologic assessment, mononuclear leukocyte infiltration was present in diverse sites, such as the perivascular and peri-ependymal regions, choroid plexus, and meningeal membranes. A positive correlation was found between the degree of ventricle enlargement and tissue damage. Further studies with long-term comparisons are required.

Morphometric and morphologic parameters of the heart in healthy Alouatta guariba clamitans (Cabrera, 1940).

BACKGROUND: This study aimed at assessing the heart function of one neotropical primate (Alouatta guariba clamitans) kept in captivity using radiography, electrocardiogram (ECG) and Doppler echocardiography. METHODS: Ten adult healthy howler monkeys (A. g. clamitans) were evaluated under general anaesthesia. Vertebral Heart Scores (VHS) were obtained from radiographic studies. Ejection fraction, shortening fraction of left ventricle, left atrial/aortic root ratio, ascending aortic diameter, peak velocity of pulmonary, mitral, tricuspid and aortic blood flow and other values were measured by Doppler echocardiography. Heart rate, mean electrical axis of QRS complex, P, Q, R, S, T amplitude, P, PR interval, QRS, QT interval duration and ST segment unbalancing were measured by ECG. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Exam techniques were akin the ones used in humans. Doppler echocardiographic, radiographic, electrocardiographic and clinical parameters for howler monkey were described and correlated. The results have shown profiles of cardiovascular function and structure of A. g. clamitans.

Taenia crassiceps injection into the subarachnoid space of rats simulates radiological and morphological features of racemose neurocysticercosis.

PURPOSE: Neurocysticercosis is a major public health concern. Although its eradication appears feasible, the disease remains endemic in developing countries and has emerged again in Europe and in the USA. Basic studies on neurocysticercosis are needed to better understand the pathophysiologic mechanisms and, consequently, to improve treatment perspectives. Much has been published on experimental parenchymal neurocysticercosis, but there are no experimental models of racemose neurocysticercosis. METHODS: Cysts of Taenia crassiceps were injected into the subarachnoid space of 11 rats. After 4 months, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed to verify the occurrence of ventricular dilatation and the distribution of cysts in the cerebrospinal fluid compartments. The histologic assessment was done focusing on changes in the ependyma, choroid plexus, and brain parenchyma. RESULTS: MRI and histologic assessment confirmed the findings similar to those seen in human racemose neurocysticercosis including enlargement of the basal cisterns, hydrocephalus, and inflammatory infiltration through the ependyma and choroid plexus into cerebrospinal fluid spaces. CONCLUSIONS: We developed a simple model of racemose neurocysticercosis by injecting cysts of T. crassiceps into the subarachnoid space of rats. This model can help understand the pathophysiologic mechanisms of the disease.

Homogeneous Canine Chest Phantom Construction: A Tool for Image Quality Optimization.

Digital radiographic imaging is increasing in veterinary practice. The use of radiation demands responsibility to maintain high image quality. Low doses are necessary because workers are requested to restrain the animal. Optimizing digital systems is necessary to avoid unnecessary exposure, causing the phenomenon known as dose creep. Homogeneous phantoms are widely used to optimize image quality and dose. We developed an automatic computational methodology to classify and quantify tissues (i.e., lung tissue, adipose tissue, muscle tissue, and bone) in canine chest computed tomography exams. The thickness of each tissue was converted to simulator materials (i.e., Lucite, aluminum, and air). Dogs were separated into groups of 20 animals each according to weight. Mean weights were 6.5 ± 2.0 kg, 15.0 ± 5.0 kg, 32.0 ± 5.5 kg, and 50.0 ± 12.0 kg, for the small, medium, large, and giant groups, respectively. The one-way analysis of variance revealed significant differences in all simulator material thicknesses (p < 0.05) quantified between groups. As a result, four phantoms were constructed for dorsoventral and lateral views. In conclusion, the present methodology allows the development of phantoms of the canine chest and possibly other body regions and/or animals. The proposed phantom is a practical tool that may be employed in future work to optimize veterinary X-ray procedures.

SKELETAL MORPHOLOGY OF THE FORELIMB OF MYRMECOPHAGA TRIDACTYLA.

Anteater forelimbs are morphologically adapted to obtain food and to provide defense and locomotion. Four species are known, but there are few anatomical studies presenting the morphologic features of each species. The aim of this study was to describe the skeletal morphology of the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) forelimb. Pictures and schematic drawings of six cadavers were created to show the bone morphology. In addition, radiographs and computed tomographs were obtained. The skeletal structure of the forelimb had several notable anatomical features. The scapula had two spines, with apparent differences between infant and adult animals. The humerus had a pectoral ridge, a pectoral tubercle, and a pronounced medial epicondyle that represent the origins of muscles important for fossorial activity. The radius had cranial, lateral, and caudal ridges that became more prominent in older animals, and the distal condyle joint provided enhanced support of the dorsal articulation for the manus. Knowledge of the bone morphology of the forelimb generates a better understanding of giant anteater habits and helps in the diagnosis of skeletal abnormalities and in the routine medical assessment of this species.

Development of an experimental model of neurocysticercosis-induced hydrocephalus. Pilot study

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To develop an experimental model of neurocysticercosis-induced hydrocephalus METHODS: There were used 17 rats. Ten animals were inoculated with Taenia crassiceps cysts into the subarachnoid. Five animals were injected with 0.1ml of 25% kaolin (a standard solution for the development of experimental hydrocephalus) and two animals were injected with saline. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to evaluate enlargement of the ventricles after one or three months of inoculation. Volumetric study was used to quantify the ventricle enlargement. RESULTS: Seven of the 10 animals in the cyst group developed hydrocephalus, two of them within one month and five within three months after inoculation. Three of the five animals in the kaolin group had hydrocephalus and none in the saline group. Ventricle volumes were significantly higher in the 3-months MRI cyst subgroup than in the 1-month cyst subgroup. Differences between cyst subgroups and kaolin group did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSION: The developed model may reproduce the human condition of neurocysticercosis-related hydrocephalus, which exhibits a slowly progressive chronic course.

Development of an experimental model of neurocysticercosis-induced hydrocephalus. Pilot study.

PURPOSE: To develop an experimental model of neurocysticercosis-induced hydrocephalus METHODS: There were used 17 rats. Ten animals were inoculated with Taenia crassiceps cysts into the subarachnoid. Five animals were injected with 0. ml of 25% kaolin (a standard solution for the development of experimental hydrocephalus) and two animals were injected with saline. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to evaluate enlargement of the ventricles after one or three months of inoculation. Volumetric study was used to quantify the ventricle enlargement. RESULTS: Seven of the 10 animals in the cyst group developed hydrocephalus, two of them within one month and five within three months after inoculation. Three of the five animals in the kaolin group had hydrocephalus and none in the saline group. Ventricle volumes were significantly higher in the 3-months MRI cyst subgroup than in the 1-month cyst subgroup. Differences between cyst subgroups and kaolin group did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSION: The developed model may reproduce the human condition of neurocysticercosis-related hydrocephalus, which exhibits a slowly progressive chronic course.

Management of a carapace fracture in a six-banded armadillo (Euphractus sexcinctus).

An adult female free-ranging six-banded armadillo (Euphractus sexcinctus) was presented with an inverted L-shaped fracture of the left pectoral carapace. The fracture was stabilized with the use of three simple interrupted interfragmentary sutures of 2-0 nylon. After 7 days, wound dehiscence occurred, so sutures were replaced and the wound treated topically with castor bean oil cream. Healing of the fracture was observed after 14 days of this treatment.

Is bone transplantation the gold standard for repair of alveolar bone defects?

New strategies to fulfill craniofacial bone defects have gained attention in recent years due to the morbidity of autologous bone graft harvesting. We aimed to evaluate the in vivo efficacy of bone tissue engineering strategy using mesenchymal stem cells associated with two matrices (bovine bone mineral and α-tricalcium phosphate), compared to an autologous bone transfer. A total of 28 adult, male, non-immunosuppressed Wistar rats underwent a critical-sized osseous defect of 5 mm diameter in the alveolar region. Animals were divided into five groups. Group 1 (n = 7) defects were repaired with autogenous bone grafts; Group 2 (n = 5) defects were repaired with bovine bone mineral free of cells; Group 3 (n = 5) defects were repaired with bovine bone mineral loaded with mesenchymal stem cells; Group 4 (n = 5) defects were repaired with α-tricalcium phosphate free of cells; and Group 5 (n = 6) defects were repaired with α-tricalcium phosphate loaded with mesenchymal stem cells. Groups 2-5 were compared to Group 1, the reference group. Healing response was evaluated by histomorphometry and computerized tomography. Histomorphometrically, Group 1 showed 60.27% ± 16.13% of bone in the defect. Groups 2 and 3 showed 23.02% ± 8.6% (p = 0.01) and 38.35% ± 19.59% (p = 0.06) of bone in the defect, respectively. Groups 4 and 5 showed 51.48% ± 11.7% (p = 0.30) and 61.80% ± 2.14% (p = 0.88) of bone in the defect, respectively. Animals whose bone defects were repaired with α-tricalcium phosphate and mesenchymal stem cells presented the highest bone volume filling the defects; both were not statistically different from autogenous bone.

Aplicações do exame radiográfico na avaliação da coluna vertebral de equinos / Applications of x-ray examination is spinal assessment of equine / Aplicaciones del examen radiográfico en evaluación de la columna a vertebral de equinos

Dentre as enfermidades que levam à claudicação, as alterações na coluna vertebral são frequentemente consideradas como diagnóstico diferencial. Dos métodos de imagem, a radiografia convencional é a principal modalidade utilizada para abordar a coluna vertebral de equinos, devido sua praticidade e baixo custo. As principais indicações para a realização doexame são sensibilidade ou dor na região cervical, postura anormal da cabeça ou pescoço, ataxia, claudicação mais evidente em membros torácicos, histórico de trauma e suspeitas de malformações ósseas e mielopatia estenótica. A avaliação das radiografias é baseada no conhecimento prévio da anatomia normal e suas variações, na postura da cervical do animal durante a realização do exame, da análise da relação sagital do diâmetro do canal vertebral e da compreensão das limitações da técnica e do aparelho diante da sobreposição das estruturas adjacentes. Assim sendo, este trabalho busca auxiliar no diagnóstico das principais enfermidades vertebrais de equinos ao revisar e descrever as estruturas anatômicas, as alterações visibilizadas e as limitações do exame radiográfico da coluna vertebral destes animais.

Among the diseases that cause lameness in horses changes in the vertebral spine are often considered as a differential diagnosis. Radiography is the primary imaging modality used to access the spine of horses because of its practicality and low cost. The main indications for the examination is tenderness or pain in the neck, abnormal posture of the head or neck, ataxia, lameness in forelimbs, history of trauma, suspected bony malformations and stenotic myelopathy. The evaluation of radiographs is based on prior knowledge of normal anatomy and its variations, in the position of the neck ofthe animal during the test, the analysis of the sagittal diameter of the spinal canal and understanding of the limitations of the technique and the apparatus before the overlap of adjacent structures. Therefore, this paper aims to assist in the diagnosis of the main vertebral diseases of horses, to review and describe the anatomical structures, the changes visualized and limitations of radiographic examination of the equine spine.

Entre las enfermedades que llevan a la cojera, las alteraciones en la columna vertebral son a menudo consideradas como diagnóstico diferencial. De los métodos de imagen, la radiografía convencional es la principal modalidad utilizada para abordar la columna vertebral de equinos, debido a su practicidad y bajo costo. Las principales indicaciones para la realización del examen son: sensibilidad o dolor en la región cervical, postura anormal de la cabeza o cuello, ataxia, cojera más evidente en miembros torácicos, histórico de trauma y sospechas de malformaciones óseas y mielopatía estenótica. La evaluación de las radiografías se basa en el conocimiento previo de la anatomía normal y sus variaciones, en la postura de la cervical del animal durante la realización del examen, del análisis de la relación sagital del diámetro del canal vertebral y dela comprensión de las limitaciones de la técnica y del aparato delante de la superposición de las estructuras adyacentes. Así, este estudio busca ayudar en el diagnóstico de las principales enfermedades vertebrales de equinos al revisar y describir las estructuras anatómicas, las alteraciones visualizadas y las limitaciones del examen radiográfico de la columna vertebral de estos animales.

Disseminated Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in a dog.

An uncommon disseminated Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection is described in a 12-year-old female dog presenting with fever, dyspnea, cough, weight loss, lymphadenopathy, melena, epistaxis, and emesis. The dog had a history of close contact with its owner, who died of pulmonary tuberculosis. Radiographic examination revealed diffuse radio-opaque images in both lung lobes, diffuse visible masses in abdominal organs, and hilar and mesenteric lymphadenopathy. Bronchial washing samples and feces were negative for acid-fast organisms. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based species identification of bronchial washing samples, feces, and urine revealed M. tuberculosis using PCR-restriction enzyme pattern analysis-PRA. Because of public health concerns, which were worsened by the physical condition of the dog, euthanasia of the animal was recommended. Rough and tough colonies suggestive of M. tuberculosis were observed after microbiological culture of lung, liver, spleen, heart, and lymph node fragments in Löwenstein-Jensen and Stonebrink media. The PRA analysis enabled diagnosis of M. tuberculosis strains isolated from organs.

Surto de abscesso mandibular por Pseudomonas aeruginosa em ovinos / Outbreak of mandibular abscess by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in sheep

Descreve-se um surto de abscesso mandibular em ovelhas da raça Bergamácia no município de Botucatu, estado de São Paulo. Do rebanho de 120 animais, 35 apresentaram aumento de volume mandibular com a presença de nódulos únicos, de consistência pétrea, de diferentes tamanhos, fistulados ou não e sem indicativos de inflamação dos tecidos moles adjacentes. Os animais eram criados em pasto de Panicum maximum cv. Tanzânia com água e sal mineral ad libitum e everminados, via oral, com pistolas dosificadoras. O material para diagnóstico microbiológico e antibiograma foi coletado de cinco animais acometidos, por punção e aspiração dos nódulos. Dos 35 animais acometidos, 19 foram submetidos ao exame radiográfico, um ao exame tomográfico e outro à biópsia óssea da região submandibular. O único ovino que morreu, encontrava-se em estado de caquexia provavelmente devido à localização do aumento de volume que afetou a implantação dos dentes molares daquela região impedindo a apreensão e mastigação adequadas levando a perda da condição corporal e morte. Ao exame necroscópico, observaram-se áreas de necrose caseosa na mandíbula direita de onde isolou-se Pseudomonas aeruginosa. O tratamento utilizado foi baseado na aplicação de iodeto de sódio a 10 por cento por via intramuscular e antibioticoterapia segundo antibiograma com enrofloxacina por via intramuscular, porém com pouca eficácia. Diante do quadro clínico, dos dados de anamnese, da localização das lesões no tecido ósseo mandibular, do resultado do cultivo microbiológico, das alterações radiográficas e tomográficas foi feito o diagnóstico de abscesso mandibular causado por Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

We describe an outbreak of mandibular abscess in Bergamácia sheep from the municipality of Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil. In a herd of 120 sheep, 35 showed an increase of the mandibular volume with presence of a single nodule of stony consistency and different sizes, often fistulated but with no signs of inflammation in the surrounding soft tissues. The sheep were raised on a Panicum maximum cv. Tanzania pasture, with water and mineral salt ad libitum, and were treated orally against parasites with drenching pistols. Material for microbiological diagnosis and antibiogram was collected from the nodules of five affected sheep, through puncture and aspiration. From 35 affected sheep, 19 were submitted to radiographic examination, one was submitted to computer tomography and another to bone biopsy of the submandibular region. The only sheep that died was in a state of cachexia, probably due to the location of the volume increase which affected the molar hindering apprehension and appropriate chewing. Necropsy revealed areas of caseous necrosis in the jaw, from where Pseudomonas aeruginosa was isolated. The sheep were treated with intramuscular application of 10 percent sodium iodide and the antobiotgic enrofloxacin, but with little efficacy. Based on the clinical data from medical records, the location of lesions in the jaw bone, the result of microbiological culture, radiographic and computer tomography, the diagnosis of mandibular abscesses due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection was made.

Histological and radiological changes in cranial bone in the presence of bone wax.

PURPOSE: To quantify the amount of bone formation in the calvarial region of Wistar rats after craniotomy using bone wax as a haemostatic agent. METHODS: Surgery to produce bilateral, symmetric, full-thickness cranial defects (area: 18 mm(2)) was performed in eight animals. The right side of the cranium remained open and the edges of the left side osseous defect was covered with bone wax. Calvaria were imaged immediately after surgery and 12 weeks postoperatively by computerized tomography. The areas of the bone defects were measured in three-dimensional images using Magics 13.0 (Materialise-Belgic, software CAD). RESULTS: The average amount of bone formation on the left and right side respectively was 4.85 mm(2) and 8.16 mm(2). Statistically significant differences between the amount of bone formation on the left and right sides were seen. CONCLUSIONS: Bone wax significantly diminishes the rate of bone formation in calvarial defects in a rat model.

Histological and radiological changes in cranial bone in the presence of bone wax / Alterações histológicas e radiológicas no osso craniano na presença de cera de osso

PURPOSE: To quantify the amount of bone formation in the calvarial region of Wistar rats after craniotomy using bone wax as a haemostatic agent. METHODS: Surgery to produce bilateral, symmetric, full-thickness cranial defects (area: 18 mm²) was performed in eight animals. The right side of the cranium remained open and the edges of the left side osseous defect was covered with bone wax. Calvaria were imaged immediately after surgery and 12 weeks postoperatively by computerized tomography. The areas of the bone defects were measured in three-dimensional images using Magics 13.0 (Materialise-Belgic, software CAD). RESULTS: The average amount of bone formation on the left and right side respectively was 4.85 mm² and 8.16 mm². Statistically significant differences between the amount of bone formation on the left and right sides were seen. CONCLUSIONS: Bone wax significantly diminishes the rate of bone formation in calvarial defects in a rat model.

OBJETIVO: Quantificar a formação óssea da região da calvaria de ratos Wistar submetidos à craniotomia com a utilização de cera de osso como agente hemostático. MÉTODOS: Cirurgia para realizar um defeito ósseo craniano bilateral, simétrico (área: 18 mm²) e com espessura total foi realizado em oito animais. O lado direito do crânio permaneceu aberto e as extremidades do defeito ósseo do lado esquerdo foram recobertas com cera de osso. O crânio foi submetido à avaliação radiológica imediatamente após a cirurgia e 12 semanas após a cirurgia com a utilização de tomografia computadorizada. As áreas dos defeitos ósseos foram medidas através de imagens tridimensionais e utilizando o programa de computador Magics 13.0 (Materialise-Belgic, software CAD). RESULTADOS: A quantidade média de formação óssea no lado esquerdo e direito foi respectivamente de 4.85 mm² e 8.16 mm². Diferença estatisticamente significante foi observada entre o lado direito e esquerdo. CONCLUSÕES: A cera de osso diminuiu significativamente a formação óssea nos defeitos ósseos em modelo animal.

Effects of uterine cervix constriction on Wistar rats.

PURPOSE: To verify if uterine cerclage can induce craniosynostosis or any cranial deformity in new born Wistar rats. METHODS: One pregnant female Wistar rat underwent laparotomy on day 18 of gestation and the uterus cervix was closed with a 3-0 nylon suture to avoid delivery, that occurs normally on the 21 day. The suture was released after 48 hours beyond the normal gestation period. The female rat delivered 11 pups. Six surviving rats from the delivery (group A - constrained group). Two rats were born from another mother and in the same age were used as control group (group B - 2 nonconstrained controls) were allowed to grow. They were sacrificed 1.2 years after their birth all the eight animals. Linear measurement, routine histology and computed tomography of the skull were performed at the time of their death to evaluate the cranial asymmetries by measurements of the anatomical landmarks of the craniofacial skeleton of the rats on the two groups and compared then. RESULTS: We did not observe statistically significant differences in any of the compared measurements (p>0.05) obtained through the morphologic and radiologic methods. Histologic examinations did not reveal any sign of premature fusion or suture imbrications. Critical decrease in longitudinal body size was noticed as the limbs too in all the animals of group A. CONCLUSION: Constriction of uterine cervix leads to fetus suffering, even death for a few animals, associated to small body size, but not to craniosynostosis.