Nerve stimulator-guided mandibular block in an alpaca undergoing dental extraction.

General anesthesia of a 2-year-old castrated male alpaca undergoing mandibular tooth extraction was successfully managed via a mandibular nerve block with bupivacaine, using nerve stimulation to confirm correct needle placement. The local block was effective, with no cardiovascular or respiratory responses to surgical stimulation observed. Key clinical message: Use of a locoregional technique in dentistry confers anesthetic stability, blocks nociceptive responses to surgery, and promotes a smooth recovery and comfortable postoperative period.

Bloc du nerf mandibulaire confirmé en utilisant la stimulation nerveuse chez un alpaga subissant une extraction dentaire. L'anesthésie générale d'un alpaga mâle castré de 2 ans subissant une extraction de dent mandibulaire a été gérée avec succès par un bloc du nerf mandibulaire avec de la bupivacaïne en utilisant la stimulation nerveuse. Aucune réaction contre la stimulation chirurgicale, y compris une augmentation de la fréquence cardiaque et de la pression artérielle, n'a été observée pendant l'opération.Message clinique clé :L'utilisation d'une technique locorégionale en dentisterie confère une stabilité anesthésique, bloque les réactions nociceptives à la chirurgie et favorise un rétablissement en douceur et une période postopératoire confortable.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Rectal prolapse secondary to a urachal abscess in an alpaca cria.

A five-month-old alpaca cria presented with a history of abdominal pain, dysuria, and a recurring rectal prolapse. An ultrasonographic examination indicated a urachal abscess attached to the urinary bladder. The abscess was removed surgically, and the patient had an adequate recovery after the procedure and ancillary treatment. This case report highlights secondary complications that could arise following an infection of the urachus in new-world camelids. Key clinical message: Urachal abscess should be considered as a differential diagnosis in juvenile new-world camelids with rectal prolapse, tenesmus, or dysuria.

Prolapsus rectal secondaire à un abcès de l'ouraque chez un cria d'alpaga. Un cria d'alpaga âgé de cinq mois est présenté avec des antécédents de douleurs abdominales, de dysurie et de prolapsus rectal récurrent. Un examen échographique a révélé un abcès de l'ouraque attaché à la vessie. L'abcès a été enlevé chirurgicalement, et le patient a eu une récupération adéquate après la procédure et le traitement auxiliaire. Ce rapport de cas met en évidence les complications secondaires qui pourraient survenir à la suite d'une infection de l'ouraque chez les camélidés du nouveau monde.Message clinique clé :L'abcès de l'ouraque doit être considéré comme un diagnostic différentiel chez les camélidés juvéniles du nouveau monde présentant un prolapsus rectal, un ténesme ou une dysurie.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Biomechanical evaluation of bovine stifles stabilized with an innovative braided superelastic nitinol prosthesis after transection of the cranial cruciate ligament.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the stability bovine stifles stabilized with nylon or nitinol superelastic prostheses after transection of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL). STUDY DESIGN: Ex vivo study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Stifles (n = 15) harvested from adult bovine cadavers. METHODS: The stifles were randomly assigned pairwise to a ligament reconstruction technique (n = 5): (1) and (2) Hamilton's technique using a prosthesis made of 24 nitinol strands (0.39 mm) braided at 40°or single 600-lb test nylon implant, and (3) nitinol prosthesis placed in femoral and tibial bone tunnels (bone-to-bone). Craniocaudal tibial translation at ±2000 N was applied to the tibia, and mediolateral angular displacement via measured under torsional tibial loading at ±60 Nm on three occasions: intact CCL, transected, and stabilized. Outcomes were evaluated with a mixed effect linear model for repeated measures. RESULTS: Bone-to-bone using nitinol was the only repair that decreased tibial translation after CCL transection (p = .001) with a 23% change magnitude compared with intact CCL. Hamilton was the only stabilization reestablishing angular displacement, similar to intact CCL (p = .109 and .134 for nitinol and nylon). Bone-to-bone nitinol stabilization decreased angular displacement after CCL-transection with an 8% change magnitude (p = .040) without returning to normal values. CONCLUSION: CCL replacement with nylon did restore joint stability. Nitinol prostheses passed through single femoral and tibial bone tunnels (bone-to-bone) were the only techniques reducing tibial translation. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE/IMPACT: Bone-to-bone stabilization with a nitinol prosthesis may be considered as an alternative to nylon for CCL replacement in cattle. These results provide evidence to justify clinical evaluation in cattle undergoing CCL replacement.

Descriptive study of a method for identification of the pylorus by ultrasound in lactating Holstein cows.

The purpose of this study was to develop a method for identification of the pylorus, in lactating Holstein cows, based on ultrasound examination and the use of external anatomical landmarks such as the mammary vein (anulus venae subcutaneae abdominis). An ultrasound method based on successive identification of 4 internal anatomical landmarks was developed. The procedure was performed 157 times, on clinically healthy lactating Holstein cows, with a portable ultrasound machine equipped with a 3.5 MHz curvilinear probe. The pylorus was identified with a success rate of 98.7% (155 times out of 157 procedures). The average position of the pylorus was noted near the entrance of the right mammary vein, with a craniocaudal and dorsoventral dispersion. This ultrasound method of identifying the pylorus is simple, effective, and rapid.

Étude descriptive d'une méthode échographique d'identification du pylore chez la vache Holstein en lactation. Le but de cette étude était de développer une méthode permettant d'identifier le pylore, basée sur un examen échographique et l'utilisation de repères anatomiques externes telle la veine mammaire (anulus venae subcutaneae abdominis). Une méthode échographique s'appuyant sur l'identification successive de quatre repères anatomiques internes a été développée. La procédure a été réalisée à 157 reprises avec un échographe portable muni d'une sonde sectorielle de 3,5 MHz sur des vaches Holstein saines en lactation. Le pylore a été identifié avec un taux de succès de 98,7 % (155 fois sur 157 procédures). La position moyenne du pylore a été notée à proximité de l'entrée de la veine mammaire droite, avec une dispersion cranio-caudale et dorso-ventrale. Cette méthode échographique d'identification du pylore est simple, efficace et rapide.(Traduit par les auteurs).

PHARMACOKINETICS AND CLINICAL EFFECTS OF A SINGLE ORAL DOSE OF TRAZODONE IN THE DOMESTIC GOAT (CAPRA HIRCUS) AS A MODEL FOR WILD RUMINANTS.

Trazodone is an antianxiety medication commonly used in human and veterinary medicine. Stress-related trauma is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in wild ruminant species. Trazodone could reduce stress and allow safer capture and handling, thus having a positive effect on their welfare. The objective of this study was to describe the clinical effects and pharmacokinetic profile of an oral dose of trazodone in domestic goats (Capra hircus) as a model for wild ruminants. A pilot study using ethograms and accelerometers identified an oral dose of 10 mg/kg as optimal to reduce activity levels. This dose resulted in a 502% increase in time spent sleeping (P=0.0016) and a 623% increase in time spent lying down (P=0.01). Additionally, there were reductions of 72% in time spent grooming (P=0.02), 49% in time spent moving (P=0.01), and 87% in time spent observing (P=0.0002). Activity levels were significantly decreased by 31% for 4 hr following administration (P=0.049). There were no observed adverse effects. Time spent eating or ruminating was not affected by trazodone administration (P > 0.05). The pharmacokinetics of trazodone following a single oral dose of 10 mg/kg in 7 goats was assessed. All animals achieved plasma concentrations over 130 ng/ml, a level considered therapeutic in humans and dogs, for a mean of 6.4 ± 5.0 hr. Mean terminal half-life was 10.55 ± 6.80 hr. All goats achieved maximum concentration within 5-15 min and still had detectable plasma levels at 24 hr. Trazodone appears promising to decrease stress in exotic ruminant species. Further research is warranted to establish its efficacy in other ruminant species and clinical situations.

Cheek teeth apical infection in cattle: Diagnosis, surgical extraction, and prognosis.

OBJECTIVE: To report the clinical presentation, treatment, and outcome of cattle undergoing surgical extraction of apically infected cheek teeth (CT). STUDY DESIGN: Short case series. ANIMALS: Nine adult cattle. METHODS: Medical records were searched for cattle having a diagnosis of apical infection of CT that were treated with surgical extraction between 2005 and 2017. Data retrieved included clinical examination, ancillary tests, surgical procedure, and outcomes. RESULTS: The main presenting complaints were mandibular swelling and decreased appetite and milk production. In total, 7 mandibular and 3 maxillary CT were extracted, 7 molars and 3 premolars that were distributed more frequently on the left dental arcades (n = 7 CT). Two cattle had no visible external lesions. Radiograph images revealed that lucency surrounded all affected tooth roots. Mandibular teeth were removed by lateral buccotomy with removal of alveolar bone plate or retrograde repulsion, and maxillary teeth were removed by repulsion through a maxillary sinus flap. Most common bacterial isolates consisted of anaerobic bacteria (6/11 isolates) and Truperella pyogenes (3/11 isolates). The most common complications included inability to remove the tooth intact (n = 4 cattle) and surgical site infection (n = 5). All cattle remained in their herd after treatment. CONCLUSION: Surgical extraction of CT was achieved in all 9 cattle. The postoperative morbidity was high but without long-term consequences on animal productivity. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Surgical extraction of CT is a successful treatment for apical infection in cattle.

Duodenoduodenostomy for obstruction of the sigmoid flexure of the duodenum in cattle.

OBJECTIVE: To describe clinical findings, surgical treatment, and outcome associated with duodenoduodenostomy for treatment of duodenal obstruction secondary to adhesions associated with the sigmoid flexure of the duodenum. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study (1996-2016). ANIMALS: Fourteen Holstein cattle. METHODS: Medical records of cows treated at 3 academic surgical referral centers with duodenoduodenostomy for duodenal obstruction secondary to adhesions associated with the sigmoid flexure of the duodenum were reviewed. Data that were collected included signalment, physical examination results, laboratory results, diagnostic findings, treatments, and survival to discharge. Owners were contacted for follow-up information. RESULTS: Affected cattle ranged in age from 4 months to 5 years. Electrolyte abnormalities, including severe hypochloremia, were present in all cases. Abnormalities included cranial duodenal distension without concurrent distension of the descending duodenum and palpable focal adhesions in the region of the sigmoid flexure of the duodenum. Duodenoduodenostomy involved a stapled (n = 11) or sutured (n = 3) side-to-side anastomosis between the cranial duodenum and descending duodenum. Thirteen of 14 cattle that were treated with duodenoduodenostomy survived to hospital discharge. Long-term follow-up was available in 8 cows, and 7 of those 8 survived for at least 1 year. CONCLUSION: Short- and long-term survival were favorable after duodenoduodenostomy in cattle with adhesions associated with the sigmoid flexure of the duodenum. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Duodenoduodenostomy results in acceptable survival and future productivity in cows with obstruction at the sigmoid flexure of the duodenum.

Arthroscopic approach and intra-articular anatomy of the dorsal and plantar synovial compartments of the bovine tarsocrural joint.

OBJECTIVE: To determine arthroscopic approaches to the dorsal and plantar synovial compartments of the tarsocrural joint in adult cattle, and to describe the arthroscopic intra-articular anatomy from each approach. STUDY DESIGN: Ex vivo study. ANIMALS: Fresh adult bovine cadavers (n = 7). METHODS: Two tarsocrural joint were injected with latex to determine arthroscopic portal locations and arthroscopy of the tarsocrural joint of 12 tarsi was performed. The dorsolateral approach was made through the large pouch located between the long digital extensor and peroneus longus tendons. The dorsomedial approach was made just medial to the common synovial sheath of the tibialis cranialis, peroneus tertius, and long digital extensor tendons. The plantarolateral and plantaromedial approaches were made lateral and medial to the tarsal tendon sheath, respectively. RESULTS: Each approach allowed visualization of the distal tibia articulating with the proximal trochlea of the talus. Consistently observed structures included the distal intermediate ridge of the tibia, and the medial and lateral trochlear ridges and trochlear groove of the talus. Lateral and medial malleoli were best assessed from dorsal approaches. From the lateral approaches evaluation of the abaxial surface of the lateral trochlear ridge allowed visualization of the fibulocalcaneal joint. From the plantar approaches additional observed structures included the coracoid process of the calcaneus, plantar trochlea of the talus, and plantar talotibial and talofibular ligaments. CONCLUSION: In cattle, the dorsolateral and plantarolateral approaches allowed for the best evaluation of the dorsal and plantar aspects of the tarsocrural joint, respectively.

Evaluation of a Jugular Venipuncture Alpaca Model to Teach the Technique of Blood Sampling in Adult Alpacas.

The effectiveness of teaching aids in veterinary medical education is not often assessed rigorously. The objective in the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a commercially available jugular venipuncture alpaca model as a complementary tool to teach veterinary students how to perform venipuncture in adult alpacas. We hypothesized that practicing on the model would allow veterinary students to draw blood in alpacas more rapidly with fewer attempts than students without previous practice on the model. Thirty-six third-year veterinary students were enrolled and randomly allocated to the model (group M; n=18) or the control group (group C; n=18). The venipuncture technique was taught to all students on day 0. Students in group M practiced on the model on day 2. On day 5, an evaluator blinded to group allocation evaluated the students' venipuncture skills during a practical examination using live alpacas. Success was defined as the aspiration of a 6-ml sample of blood. Measured outcomes included number of attempts required to achieve success (success score), total procedural time, and overall qualitative score. Success scores, total procedural time, and overall scores did not differ between groups. Use of restless alpacas reduced performance. The jugular venipuncture alpaca model failed to improve jugular venipuncture skills in this student population. Lack of movement represents a significant weakness of this training model.

Dorsal Arthroscopic Approach and Intra-Articular Anatomy of the Bovine Antebrachiocarpal and Middle Carpal Joints.

OBJECTIVE: To determine arthroscopic approaches to the dorsal synovial compartments of the antebrachiocarpal and middle carpal joints in adult cattle, and to describe the arthroscopic intra-articular anatomy from each approach. STUDY DESIGN: Ex vivo study. ANIMALS: Six fresh adult bovine cadavers. METHODS: Two carpi were injected with latex and dissected to determine the ideal location for arthroscopic portals. Arthroscopy of the antebrachiocarpal and middle carpal joints of 10 carpi was then performed. The dorsolateral approach was made between the extensor carpi radialis and common digital extensor tendons. The dorsomedial approach was made medial to the extensor carpi radialis tendon, midway between the distal radius and proximal row of carpal bones (antebrachiocarpal joint) and midway between the two rows of carpal bones (middle carpal joint), with the joint in flexion. RESULTS: Arthroscopy of the antebrachiocarpal joint allowed visualization of the distal radius, proximal aspect of the radial, intermediate and ulnar carpal bones, and a palmar ligament located between the radius and the intermediate carpal bone. The approach to the middle carpal joint allowed visualization of the distal aspect of the radial, intermediate, and ulnar carpal bones, the proximal aspect of the fourth and fused second and third carpal bones and an interosseous ligament. The most lateral articular structures (lateral glenoid cavity of the distal radius, ulnar carpal and fourth carpal bones) were difficult to assess. CONCLUSION: Dorsal approaches to the antebrachiocarpal and middle carpal joints allowed visualization of most intra-articular dorsal structures in adult cattle.

Outcome Following Partial Unilateral Hysterectomy by Standing Flank Approach in Dairy Cattle.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical findings, surgical treatment, and long-term outcome of dairy cattle undergoing partial hysterectomy with or without unilateral ovariectomy. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Dairy cattle (n = 7). METHODS: Medical records (June 2007-June 2014) of dairy cattle that had partial hysterectomy with or without ipsilateral ovariectomy were reviewed. Follow-up data were obtained by telephone interviews with owners and referring veterinarians between 6 months and 7 years following discharge. RESULTS: Seven dairy cattle met the inclusion criteria. Diagnoses made intra- or postoperatively were ovarian abscess with multiorgan adhesions (4 cows), segmental aplasia of the uterus (2 cows), and uterine lymphosarcoma (1 cow). Partial hysterectomy with or without unilateral ovariectomy was performed without surgical complications by standing flank approach. All cows were successfully discharged from the hospital (short-term prognosis). Five cows became pregnant, and 4 delivered live calves and had a satisfactory productive life without long-term complications. CONCLUSION: Partial hysterectomy by standing flank approach should be considered as a viable treatment option for unilateral ovarian or uterine problems in dairy cattle. Cattle undergoing partial hysterectomy with or without ipsilateral ovariectomy are capable of satisfactory reproduction and milk production after surgery with no short- or long-term complications.

Surgical Management of Omphalophlebitis and Long Term Outcome in Calves: 39 Cases (2008-2013).

OBJECTIVE: To describe and evaluate the surgical management of omphalophlebitis and to report the short and long term outcomes in calves. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Calves (n = 39). METHODS: Medical records (2008-2013) of calves diagnosed with omphalophlebitis and that underwent surgical correction were reviewed. Short term (hospital discharge) and long term (≥6 months after surgery) survival rates were obtained. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the population and a Fisher's exact test was used to evaluate the relationship between clinical signs, surgical management, and outcome. RESULTS: Thirty-nine calves (median age 30 days) were included in the study. Eleven calves had septic arthritis associated with omphalophlebitis and 18 had evidence of liver abscesses on ultrasound. Complete surgical en bloc resection was achieved in 18 calves and umbilical vein marsupialization was performed on the other 21 calves. Thirty-five calves were discharged from the hospital and long term followup was obtained for 30 of them. Twenty-nine animals were performing according to the owner's expectation at least 6 months after surgery (14 for marsupialization and 15 for en bloc resection). A better prognosis was detected when en bloc resection was performed (100% survival); however, when marsupialization was performed, the prognosis was good (74%; P = .05). Septic arthritis had a significant negative effect on overall survival (P < .001). CONCLUSION: The overall survival is good with both surgical options, and even calves with liver involvement and septic arthritis associated can be successfully treated with a combination of long term antibiotics and umbilical vein marsupialization.

Long-term mechanical milking status of lacerated teat repaired surgically in cattle: 67 cases (2003-2013).

This study evaluated the long-term prognosis of return to normal mechanical milking after reconstructive teat surgery and determined the factors that have an impact on the outcome. A retrospective study of 67 dairy cows with teat lacerations was performed. Milking status at discharge and at long-term follow-up was adequate for 83% and 75% of the cows, respectively. No statistically significant differences were detected between the long-term prognosis and the age of the cow, the stage of lactation at presentation, or the configuration of the laceration. Lacerations repaired more than 24 hours after the trauma were more frequently associated with a negative outcome (P = 0.05). Mastitis was the most frequent complication (n = 17) and had a statistically significant negative impact on long-term prognosis (P = 0.02). Reconstructive surgery of lacerated teat in dairy cows can help establish return to normal mechanical milking.

Évaluation du pronostic à long terme en regard de la traite mécanique des trayons lacérés réparés chirurgicalement chez la vache : 67 cas (2003­2013). Les objectifs de cette étude sont d'évaluer le pronostic à long terme, en regard de la traite mécanique, suivant la reconstruction d'un trayon lacéré et de déterminer les critères associés à un pronostic négatif. Une étude rétrospective sur 67 vaches laitières a été réalisée. La traite mécanique était adéquate pour 83 et 75 % des vaches à leur sortie de l'hôpital et lors du suivi à long terme. Pas de différences statistiques ont été trouvées entre le pronostic à long terme et l'âge des vaches, leur stade de lactation et la configuration de la lacération. Les lacérations réparées plus de 24 heures après le trauma avaient un pronostic moins bon (P = 0,05). La complication la plus fréquente était la mammite (n = 17). Elle avait un effet négatif sur le pronostic à long terme (P = 0,02). Reconstruire chirurgicalement un trayon lacéré peut rétablir la traite mécanique.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Multiple tarsal luxations in 2 Holstein heifers.

Two Holstein heifers were referred for non-weight bearing lameness. The physical examination and radiographic findings were diagnostic of tarsal luxation. Treatment and outcome are reported. A closed reduction was successfully performed in 1 heifer. The second animal was euthanized after attempts to reduce and stabilize the joint.

Luxations multiples du tarse chez 2 taures Holstein. Deux taures Holstein ont été référées pour boiterie de non-appuie. L'examen physique et les radiographies étaient diagnostiques d'une luxation du tarse. Les traitements et pronostic sont décrits. Une réduction fermée a été possible sur une taure et l'autre a été euthanasiée après l'échec de la réduction.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Determination of the normal arthroscopic anatomy of the femoropatellar and cranial femorotibial joints of cattle.

The arthroscopic approach and anatomy of the bovine femoropatellar and femorotibial joints are described. A 4-mm diameter, 15-cm long arthroscope with a 30° forward angle view was used. The structures viewed were recorded according to the position of the arthroscope within the joint. The femoropatellar joint was best accessed via a lateral approach, between the middle and lateral patellar ligaments. The axial portion of the medial femorotibial joint was viewed from a medial approach between the middle and medial patellar ligaments and the abaxial portion was viewed from a lateral approach between the middle and the lateral patellar ligaments. The axial portion of the lateral femorotibial joint was viewed from a lateral approach between the middle and the lateral patellar ligaments and the abaxial portion was viewed from a medial approach between the middle and medial patellar ligaments. The results of this study provide guidelines regarding the location of arthroscopic portals to evaluate precisely different areas of the stifle in cattle.

Détermination de l'anatomie arthroscopique normale des articulations fémoropatellaire, et fémorotibiales, compartiments craniaux, chez les bovins. Les approches arthroscopiques et l'anatomie des articulations fémoropatellaire et fémorotibiales des bovins sont décrites dans cet article. Un arthroscope de 4 mm de diamètre et d'une longueur de 15 cm avec un angle de visionnement de 30 degré a été utilisé. La position de l'arthroscope a été notée pour chaque structure visualisée. L'articulation fémoropatellaire était pénétrée par une approche latérale, entre les ligaments patellaires médian et latéral. La portion axiale de l'articulation fémorotibiale médiale était pénétrée par une approche médiale entre les ligaments patellaire médian et médial et la portion abaxiale était pénétrée par une approche latérale entre les ligaments patellaires médian et latéral. La portion axiale de l'articulation fémorotibiale latérale était pénétrée par une approche latérale entre les ligaments patellaires médian et latéral et la portion abaxiale était pénétrée par une approche médiale entre les ligaments patellaires médian et médiale. Les résultats de cette étude s'avère être un guide afin d'utiliser la meilleure approche arthroscopique pour évaluer précisément certaines structures du grasset bovin.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Laryngeal obstruction caused by lymphoma in an adult dairy cow.

A Holstein cow was presented for inspiratory dyspnea. Endoscopic evaluation revealed swollen arytenoids and a presumptive diagnosis of bilateral arytenoidal chondritis was made. A partial arytenoidectomy was performed, the right arytenoid was submitted for histopathology, and a diagnosis of laryngeal lymphoma was made. Due to the poor prognosis, the cow was euthanized.

Obstruction laryngée causée par un lymphome chez une vache à lait. Une vache Holstein a été présentée pour dyspnée inspiratoire. L'évaluation endoscopique a révélé une enflure des aryténoides. Une hypothèse diagnostique de chondrite des aryténoides a été émise. Une aryténoidectomie partielle a été effectuée. L'aryténoide droit a été soumis pour évaluation histopathologique. Un diagnostic de lymphome laryngé a été émis. Le pronostic d'un lymphome étant sombre, la vache a été euthanasiée.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Endoscopic removal of esophageal and ruminal foreign bodies in 5 Holstein calves.

Endoscopic removal of esophageal and ruminal foreign bodies was successfully performed in 5 Holstein-Friesian calves under sedation or general anesthesia by using an electrocautery snare or a wire-guided Dormi basket. This report describes the endoscopic manipulations, treatment, and outcomes of esophageal foreign body removal in these calves.

Trans-oral endoscopie pour retirer un corps étranger oesophagien ou ruminal chez 5 veaux Holstein. L'extraction d'un corps étranger oesophagien ou ruminale a été effectuée par endoscopie à l'aide d'un lassot ou d'un panier endoscopique (Dormi) avec succès chez cinq veaux de race Holstein, sous sédation ou anesthésie générale. Ce rapport de cas décrit les manipulations endoscopiques, les traitements et le pronostic suite à l'extraction endoscopique du corps étranger chez ces veaux.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Milk flow obstruction caused by varicose vein of the teat in dairy cattle.

OBJECTIVE: To describe varicose vein as a cause of obstruction of the teat cistern in dairy cattle and to report therapeutic options and outcome. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Dairy cows (n = 22). METHODS: Medical records (1998-2011) of dairy cows admitted for milking difficulties caused by a teat varicose vein were reviewed. Three treatment approaches were used: sclerotherapy, ligation of the vein associated with sclerotherapy, and phlebectomy. Long-term outcome was obtained ≥ 6 months after treatment and defined as a milking improvement. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the population at risk and a chi square test was used to evaluate the relationship between treatments and outcomes. RESULTS: Twenty-four teats (22 cows) had a varicose vein. Forequarters were more frequently affected than rear quarters (P < .01). Three sclerotherapies, 12 ligations associated with sclerotherapy and 6 phlebectomies were performed. Five veins were not treated. Overall prognosis with treatment was good (84%) at ≥ 6 months and was not significantly different between treatment types (P = .38). Recurrence of the obstruction by the varicose vein occurred in 3 of 19 teats. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Several surgical options are available for treatment of teat varicose veins. The overall prognosis of return to normal milking is good.

Presence or severity of hypophosphatemia is not associated with survival outcome in postpartum downer dairy cows.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between serum phosphorus concentration and the outcome of postpartum downer cows. ANIMALS: Postpartum downer dairy cows presented over a 22-year period. PROCEDURES: In this cross-sectional study (1994 to 2016), medical records of all postpartum downer cows presented to a referral large animal hospital were reviewed. The association between serum inorganic phosphorus concentration and survival was assessed using a multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS: 907 postpartum downer dairy cows were included and classified as hypophosphatemic (mild: > 2.25 to < 3.25 mg/dL, moderate: > 1.50 to ≤ 2.25 mg/dL, and severe: ≤ 1.50 mg/dL), normophosphatemic (≥ 3.25 and ≤ 8.76 mg/dL) or hyperphosphatemic (> 8.76 mg/dL). Hypophosphatemia was observed in 19.4% of the cows (n = 176). Of those, 54.5% (n = 96) were also hypocalcemic. Overall, 58.4% cows (n = 530) survived after hospitalization. Hypophosphatemia was not significantly associated with the outcome of postpartum downer cows (mild: OR = 1.0, 95% CI: 0.6 to 1.8; moderate: OR = 0.5, 95% CI: 0.2 to 1.1; severe: OR = 1.0, 95% CI: 0.4 to 2.4). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Low serum phosphorus concentration was frequently observed with hypocalcemia and was not associated with the outcome of postpartum downer cows.

Ultrasound evaluation of tympanic bulla in calves.

An ultrasonographic approach for the tympanic bulla in calves is described. Ultrasound evaluation was performed through a lateral approach on 7 fetuses, 2 newborn calves, and 4 living calves of various ages. The probe was positioned caudal to the vertical mandibular ramus, ventral to the base of the ear. Three different positions of the probe were used. The tympanic bulla and adjacent structures were successfully identified and their ultrasonographic appearance described. Fluid within the tympanic bulla was visualized in 12 bullae in the cadavers and in 6 bullae in live calves. Ultrasound imaging has been shown to be useful but its diagnostic value remains to be studied in clinical cases of otitis media in calves.

RésuméÉvaluation échographique des bulles tympaniques chez le veau. Une technique d'échographie de la bulle tympanique chez le veau a été développée. L'échographie a été réalisée par approche latérale sur 7 cadavres de fœtus puis sur 2 veaux naissants et 4 veaux vivants d'âge variable. La sonde était placée caudalement au rameau mandibulaire, à la base de l'oreille. Trois différentes positions de sonde ont été utilisées. La bulle tympanique et les structures adjacentes ont pu être identifiées et leur apparence échographique a été décrite. Du liquide dans la bulle tympanique a pu être visualisé dans la majorité des bulles sur les cadavres (n = 12) et dans quelques bulles chez les veaux vivants (n = 6). L'échographie a été démontrée utile mais son application sur des cas cliniques d'otite moyenne reste à évaluer.(Traduit par les auteurs).