Reliability of fluoroscopic examination of nasopharyngeal dorsoventral dimension change in pugs and French bulldogs.

OBJECTIVE: To compare intra- and interobserver agreements in two-dimensional measurements of changes in nasopharyngeal dimensions during breathing in pugs and French bulldogs. STUDY DESIGN: Experimental randomized study. ANIMALS: A total of 20 French bulldogs and 16 pugs. METHODS: Four observers with different levels of experience measured the dorsoventral dimensions of the nasopharynx during inspiration and expiration on fluoroscopy videos. Measurements were performed at the maximal narrowing of the nasopharynx for the functional method and at the level of the tip of the epiglottis for the anatomically adjusted method. The intra- and interobserver agreements of the measurements, ratio of the dynamic nasopharyngeal change (ΔL), and grade of nasopharyngeal (NP) collapse (no, partial or complete) were evaluated. RESULTS: The functional method resulted in intraobserver correlation coefficients of 0.532 (p < .01) and 0.751 (p < .01) and interobserver correlation coefficients of 0.378 (p < .01) and 0.621 (p < .01) for NP collapse grade and ΔL, respectively. The anatomically adjusted method, 0.491 (p < .01) and 0.576 (p < .01) and 0.495 (p < .01) and 0.729 (p < .01) for NP collapse grade and ΔL, respectively, were being used. One observer (radiologist) achieved intraobserver correlation coefficients >0.9 for both methods. CONCLUSION: Fair interobserver agreement was found for NP collapse grade (functional method), moderate intra- and interobserver agreements were found for NP collapse grade and ΔL (both methods) while intraobserver agreement for ΔL was good (functional method). CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Both methods seem repeatable and reproducible but only for experienced radiologists. The use of ΔL may offer higher repeatability and reproducibility than grade of NP collapse regardless of the method used.

Comparison of a single-access glove port with a SILS™ port in a surgical simulator model using MISTELS.

BACKGROUND: Recent advances in laparoscopy both in human and veterinary medicine have looked at means of being less invasive by using single-port access surgery as opposed to multiport access surgery. The glove port has gained popularity as a cost-effective alternative to commercially available single-port access devices. The primary aim of this study was to compare the glove port to the SILS™ port in a simulator model using the first two MISTELS (McGill inanimate system for training and evaluation of laparoscopic skills) tasks (peg transfer and pattern cutting). METHODS: Twenty-two novices were enrolled in this experimental study. Each participant had 60 min to practise both MISTELS tasks using two-port laparoscopy. Thereafter participants performed both tasks using the glove and SILS™ port with scores being calculated based on task completion time and errors. Higher scores were indicative of better performance. Participants were assigned into two groups with the starting order of the single ports being randomly selected. A self-evaluation questionnaire with three questions was completed by each participant after testing, rating each port. RESULTS: Significantly (p < 0.05) higher scores were achieved using the glove port compared to the SILS™ port when performing both tasks. The glove port was subjectively evaluated as easier to use with more manoeuvrability of the instruments than the SILS™ port. IMPLICATIONS OF THE STUDY: The glove port's improved manoeuvrability and ease of use make it a cost-effective alternative to the SILS™ port, for use in single-port laparoscopic veterinary surgery.

Influence of computed tomographic dimensions of the nasopharynx on middle ear effusion and inflammation in pugs and French bulldogs with brachycephalic airway syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the prevalence of middle ear abnormalities in pugs and in French bulldogs and evaluate the influence of nasopharyngeal dimensions on middle ear effusion. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: Thirty pugs and 30 French bulldogs with brachycephalic airway syndrome and no known history of ear disease. METHODS: Computed tomographic (CT) studies were reviewed for middle ear effusion, mucosal contrast enhancement, signs of osteitis, and tympanic wall thickness. Soft palate thickness and cross-sectional areas of the nasopharynx at the opening of the auditory tube were measured and normalized to each individual's skull index before statistical comparison between breeds. Statistical dependence of middle ear abnormalities and nasopharyngeal dimensions was assessed by using Spearman's rank correlation tests. RESULTS: Middle ear effusion was observed in 17 of 30 (56.7%) French bulldogs and five of 30 (16.7%) pugs. Contrast enhancement of the tympanic bulla was noted in 25 of 60 (41.6%) French bulldog ears and three of 60 (5.0%) pug ears. The cross-sectional airway dimensions (difference [Δ] = 0.31 cm2 , P < .0001) and soft palate thickness (Δ = 0.44 cm, P < .0001) were reduced in pugs compared with in French bulldogs. Weak correlations were detected between soft palate thickness and nasopharyngeal dimensions and presence of tympanic bulla effusion (r = 0.324 and r = 0.198, respectively) or contrast enhancement (r = 0.270 and r = 0.199, respectively). CONCLUSION: Middle ear effusion and inflammation were more common in French bulldogs than in pugs and did not seem related to nasopharyngeal dimensions. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: French bulldogs with brachycephalic airway syndrome seem predisposed to middle ear effusion and inflammation.

Comparison of three surgical approaches for zygomatic sialoadenectomy in canine cadavers.

OBJECTIVE: To compare three surgical approaches for excision of the zygomatic gland in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Cadaveric study. ANIMALS: Cadavers of mesocephalic dogs (n = 20). METHODS: Each skull was assigned to a lateral approach with zygomatic arch ostectomy on the left (n = 20) and one approach without ostectomy on the right, ventral (n = 10) or dorsal (n = 10) to the zygomatic arch. Approaches were evaluated for surgical exposure (rated on a scale of 1-5 with one optimal exposure), tissue trauma, and completeness of gland removal. Glands from each side were weighed to compare as internal control. RESULTS: The ostectomy-based approach offered excellent surgical view and good exposure of the zygomatic gland but caused more tissue trauma. The dorsal nonostectomy approach did not allow complete zygomatic gland extraction in nine of the 10 dogs, whereas the ventral nonostectomy approach enabled complete extraction in all 10 dogs. CONCLUSION: The ventral zygomatic approach allowed complete removal of the zygomatic gland, with good surgical overview, while reducing tissue trauma and preserving the zygomatic arch. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The ventral nonostectomy approach should be considered as an alternative to excise the zygomatic gland in dogs.

Single-port laparoscopic-assisted ovariohysterectomy with a modified glove-port technique in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To describe a single-port laparoscopic-assisted ovariohysterectomy (LOHE) with a modified glove-port technique in dogs and compare it with previously published laparoscopic techniques for LOHE in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective clinical study and technique description. ANIMALS: Forty-two healthy female dogs. METHODS: Laparoscopic-assisted ovariohysterectomy was performed with a custom-made single-port device. The total duration of surgery from first incision to skin closure was compared with previously published durations of LOHE in dogs. Short-term complications were recorded. RESULTS: The median total duration of surgery was 24 minutes (range, 17.5-39.5; mean, 25.73; SD, 6.12), which was shorter than that described in most previously reported studies of LOHE in dogs (range, 20.8 ± 4.00-60.0 ± 18.45 minutes; P < .001). Intraoperative complications were minor, but wound complications occurred in 12 of 42 (29%) dogs. CONCLUSION: Single-port LOHE with the glove-port technique in combination with a wound retractor and nonarticulated instruments was completed in all dogs. This technique was faster than what has been previously reported for other LOHE, but local wound complications were common. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The glove-port technique described here offers a low-cost alternative to other commercially available single-port devices.

Effect of patient rotation on ovary observation during laparoscopic ovariectomy in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the optimal recumbency for laparoscopic ovariectomy (LapOVE) in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective clinical trial. ANIMALS: Sixteen healthy client-owned female dogs undergoing routine single-port LapOVE. METHODS: Anesthetized dogs were placed in dorsal recumbency on a tilting operation table. The operating laparoscope was introduced and, after inspection of abdominal organs, directed toward the randomly assigned ovary. Fifteen-second video recordings were taken at each table rotation of 0°, 22.5°, and 45°. LapOVE was performed using the single-port technique. The procedure was repeated on the contralateral side. Blinded observers (3 inexperienced [IO], 3 experienced [EO], 1 expert [EE]) evaluated the recordings postoperatively for visibility of ovary/ovarian bursa, ovario-uterine transition, and other organs. RESULTS: In the 0° position, ovarian structures were rarely visualized (IO, 13/96 [13.5%]; EO, 7/96 [7.3%]; EE, 5/32 [15.6%]). In the 22.5° position, visualization improved significantly for EO (26/96 [27.1%], P < .001). There was a marked improvement in visualization for all groups when the positioning angle was altered to 45° (IO, 62/96 [64.6%]; EO, 67/96 [69.8%]; EE, 25/32 [78.1%]). The differences between 0° and 45° and between 22.5° and 45° were significant for all groups of observers (all P < .001). There was an advantage for ovary visualization when procedures were started with left ovariectomy. CONCLUSION: The 45° table rotation provided the best ovary visualization, regardless of body side or observer experience. There is evidence that procedures should be started with the left ovary when body side declination is used for organ retraction from the ovaries.

Influence of 2 Veress needles and 4 insertion sites on Veress needle penetration depth: A comparative study in cadaveric dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the penetration depth (VNPD) of 2 disposable Veress needles (VN) at 4 insertion sites in the abdomen. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Canine cadavers (n = 22, 6 for confirmation of the test methods and 16 for the comparative study). METHODS: Two disposable VN (VN A and VN B) were inserted at 4 sites (9th intercostal space [ICS] and preumbilical, paraumbilical, and subumbilical sites) in dorsally recumbent dogs by using a hand-cranked jig. The VNPD was measured as the distance traveled by the VN between the subcutaneous tissue and the perforation of the peritoneum on the basis of audible clicks and visible feedback from the VN. The effects of the VN type and insertion site on the VNPD were analyzed by using a linear mixed-effects model. RESULTS: VNPD varied between insertion sites (P = .01) and VN (P < .01). The VNPD was less at the 9th ICS than at the preumbilical, paraumbilical, and subumbilical sites. The maximal magnitude of change was 7.4 mm. Veress needle B (with a low spring rate, lower forces, and a back-cut bevel design) penetrated farther than VN A (with a high spring rate, high forces, and a lancet-type bevel) at 3 of 4 insertion sites. The maximal magnitude of change was 6.8 mm. CONCLUSION: Veress needle penetration depth varied between VN designs but was the least at the 9th ICS in canine cadavers. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Insertion of a VN at the 9th ICS is recommended to minimize its penetration into the abdomen. Associations between VNPD and mechanical factors, such as the sharpness and spring rate of VN, warrant additional research.

Comparison of design features and mechanical properties of commercially available Veress needles.

OBJECTIVE: To compare design features and mechanical properties of 13 commercially available Veress needles (VN). STUDY DESIGN: In vitro biomechanical study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Veress needles from 9 manufacturers (6 reusable, 6 disposable, and 1 with a reusable stylet combined with a disposable cannula) were included in the study. METHODS: Veress needles are designed with a spring-loaded stylet to protect the tip of the cannula following insertion into the abdomen. Stylet forces were measured with a scale in a test jig by moving the stylet in 0.5 mm steps into the hollow cannula. Forces and spring rates were derived from force-displacement plots. Mass, mechanical dimensions, and the bevel angle and geometry were assessed. Differences between VN models were analyzed with a univariate analysis of variance. Results are reported as mean ± SD or median (range). RESULTS: Physical and mechanical parameters differed between models. The exposed stylet length was 3.5 mm (2-7). Three bevel geometries (bias, lancet type, and back-cut) with angles between 20° and 40° were identified. Reusable VN weigh more (24.9 ± 2.2 g) than disposable designs (6.0 ± 2.3 g). The mean values for the spring rate and the residual stylet force were 0.23 ± 0.08 Nmm-1 and 0.94 ± 0.28 N, respectively. The mean force required to move the stylet to the cannula tip was 1.81 ± 0.29 N and 2.77 ± 0.54 N to move to the proximal end of the bevel. CONCLUSION: Commercially available VN use diverse bevel geometries and have different mechanical characteristics. Studies investigating laparoscopic entry complications should explicitly report the type of VN model used.

Nasopharyngeal Dimensions From Computed Tomography of Pugs and French Bulldogs With Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the nasopharyngeal airway dimensions of two brachycephalic breeds and to localize the area of smallest airway dimensions. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, descriptive, computed tomographic imaging study. ANIMALS: Thirty pugs and 30 French bulldogs with brachycephalic upper airway syndrome. METHODS: The thickness and length of the soft palate, cross-sectional area of the airway passage dorsal to the soft and hard palates, and cross-sectional area of the frontal sinus were measured and normalized to each dog's skull index and body weight before statistical comparison between breeds. Nasopharyngeal turbinates and surrounding airway space, and a possible relationship between the canine tooth angulation and the severity of airway obstruction were assessed. RESULTS: Pugs had significantly smaller cross-sectional areas of the airway dorsal to the soft and hard palates than French bulldogs. In both breeds, the smallest nasopharyngeal cross-sectional areas were located dorsal to the caudal end of the soft palate. The soft palate of pugs was significantly shorter than that of French bulldogs and also significantly thinner when normalized to each dog's skull index. Pugs more commonly exhibited nasopharyngeal turbinates. Pugs had significantly smaller air-filled cavities at the location of the frontal sinus. No correlation between the nasopharyngeal dimensions and canine tooth angulation was observed. CONCLUSION: Computed tomographic assessment of the upper airway morphology showed the smallest nasopharyngeal cross-sectional areas were located dorsal to the caudal end of the soft palate in both breeds. Pugs had a smaller nasopharyngeal cross-sectional area despite smaller soft palate dimensions than French bulldogs.

Mapping system for portal placement in laparoscopic procedures of small animals.

BACKGROUND: Current recommendations for portal placement in laparoscopy are often imprecise. The aim of this study was to establish and evaluate a mapping system for portal placement during laparoscopic procedures in small animals. Sixty-four final-year veterinary students took part in this in papyro study. Descriptions of portal placements of two recent veterinary laparoscopic papers were randomly chosen as templates. The students performed portal placement based either on the description in the papers or based on the orthogonal mapping system for portal placement developed by the authors in a previous pilot study. The participants were randomly divided into two groups and asked to virtually chart positions of the portals on two photographs of a dog's abdomen. Group A (n = 31) placed the portals using the mapping system, and Group B (n = 33) placed the portals based on the explanations provided in two randomly selected studies. RESULTS: Group A achieved an overall correct placement rate of 94.91 % (87.1-100.0 %) with an overall mean distance of 1.31 mm (0.00-3.61 mm) from the desired placement points. Group B achieved an overall correct placement rate of 40.8 % (3.1-93.3 %) with an overall mean distance of 16.97 mm (7.17-27.63 mm) from the desired placement points. The students in Group A performed significantly better than did students in Group B (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Use of the mapping system significantly improved correct portal placement in a dog photograph model. Use of such systems in laparoscopy may help facilitate correct portal placement and improve the repeatability of procedures, especially for the novice surgeon.

Autologous platelet gel to treat chronic decubital ulcers: a randomized, blind controlled clinical trial in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of topical application of the autologous platelet gel (PG) in canine chronic protracted decubital ulcers. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, blind controlled clinical trial. ANIMALS: Dogs (n = 18) with bilateral chronic wounds caused by protracted decubitus ulcers. METHODS: For each dog, wound side was randomized to receive either platelet gel (group PG) every 5 days for 5 dressing changes, or paraffin gauzes dressings (group C), as negative control. Wound healing and wound surfaces were compared at admission and then evaluated every 5th day, until day 25. Outcome variables were: open wound area, reduction of open wound surface compared to admission and to each preceding dressing change, time to complete epithelialization. RESULTS: Significant differences in healing process were observed at day 5 and continued throughout the entire study period (P < .00001). At 25 days, mean percent reduction in wound area was 93.5% in group PG and 13.2% in group C (P < .00001). CONCLUSIONS: Appropriately prepared autologous PG, an inexpensive, readily available blood derivative, applied topically results in more rapid healing of chronic non-healing decubital ulcers in dogs than those treated by use of paraffin-impregnated gauzes.

AP301, a synthetic peptide mimicking the lectin-like domain of TNF, enhances amiloride-sensitive Na(+) current in primary dog, pig and rat alveolar type II cells.

Pulmonary permeability oedema is a frequent complication in a number of life-threatening lung conditions, such as ALI and ARDS. Apart from ventilation strategies, no specific therapy yet exists for treatment of these potentially fatal illnesses. The oedema-reducing capacity of the lectin-like domain of TNF (TIP) and of synthetic peptides, mTIP and hTIP, which mimic the TIP domain of mouse and human TNF, have been demonstrated in various studies in rodents. Cell-based electrophysiological studies have revealed that the alveolar fluid clearing capacity of TNF and the TIP peptides is due to activation of the amiloride-sensitive Na(+) current in alveolar epithelial cells and that the primary site of action is on the apical side of these cells. AP301, a synthetic cyclic peptide mimicking the TIP domain of human TNF is currently undergoing clinical trials as a therapy for pulmonary permeability oedema. AP301 has been shown to improve alveolar liquid clearance and lung function in a porcine model of ALI. For non-clinical regulatory assessment, dog, pig and rat are standard animal models; accordingly, pre-clinical toxicological and pharmacological safety studies have been conducted with AP301 in dogs and rats. Hitherto, no studies have assessed the pharmacodynamic effect of AP301 on primary canine or porcine type II AEC. The current study describes the effect of AP301 on the amiloride-sensitive Na(+) current in type II AEC isolated from dog, pig and rat lungs. In whole cell patch clamp experiments with dog type II AEC, an increase in the amiloride-sensitive Na(+) current from 3.7 pA to 49.4 pA was observed in the presence of AP301; in pig type II AEC, an increase from 10.0 pA to 159.6 pA was observed, and in rat AEC, from 6.9 pA to 62.4 pA. In whole cell patch clamp experiments in A549 cells, AP301-induced enhancement of the amiloride-sensitive current was eliminated when Na(+) in the bath solution was replaced with N-methyl-d-glucamine (NMDG), and when the cells were pre-incubated with 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-ß-d-ribofuranoside (AICAR), an inhibitor of ENaC, but enhancement was unaffected by addition of cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channel inhibitors Zn(2+) or l-cis-diltiazem prior to AP301. These results provide strong evidence that AP301 activates the amiloride-sensitive Na(+) current through ENaC in type II AEC from dog, pig and rat. To our knowledge, this is the first cell-based analysis of the oedema-clearing effect of AP301 observed in the porcine model of pulmonary oedema. Furthermore, the results validate the dog and pig models in non-clinical assessment of AP301.

Laparoscopic-assisted placement of a peritoneal dialysis catheter with partial omentectomy and omentopexy in dogs: an experimental study.

OBJECTIVE: To describe a technique of laparoscopic-assisted placement of a peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter with simultaneously performed partial omentectomy and omentopexy. STUDY DESIGN: Pilot experimental study. ANIMALS: Beagle dogs (n = 6). METHODS: After placement of 1 sub-umbilical laparoscope portal and 1 instrument portal in the left cranial abdominal quadrant, laparoscopic-assisted partial omentectomy, and omentopexy were performed, and a modified Tenckhoff PD catheter was placed under laparoscopic guidance. A modified dialysis protocol was used twice daily for 4 days. The feasibility of the procedure, surgical duration, operative complications, and dialysis efficacy were evaluated. Postoperative pain and inflammation were graded (0-3). RESULTS: The procedure was successfully performed in all dogs with a median operating time of 25 minutes. No operative complications occurred. Procedure-related postoperative pain and inflammation were minimal. Eight consecutive PD procedures were successfully performed, and no leakage or obstruction was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic-assisted partial omentectomy and omentopexy can be performed at the same time as PD catheter placement with minimal morbidity.

Effects of rotation and osteotomy angulation on patellar tendon insertion position during circular tibial tuberosity osteotomy.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of rotation of the tibial tuberosity (TT) in the sagittal plane and angulation of osteotomy in the frontal plane (FPA) on the displacement of patellar tendon (PT) insertion. STUDY DESIGN: Ex vivo biomechanical study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Canine tibiae (n = 36). METHODS: Nine groups of 4 tibiae each had a circular osteotomy of the TT at an FPA from -20° to +20° with increments of 5° for each group. The osteotomized TT was rotated by angles of rotation (AORs) of 10°, 20°, or 30° in the sagittal plane. The craniocaudal (CCD), distoproximal (DPD), and mediolateral (MLD) displacements of a marker located at the PT insertion on the TT were evaluated radiographically. Differences between groups were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U test and Friedman 2-way ANOVA. RESULTS: There was a significant correlation between the AOR and CCD. A positive FPA resulted in a high CCD and lateral shift of the TT at every AOR. Performing an osteotomy at an FPA of 0° produced the maximum amount of DPD. CONCLUSIONS: FPA and AOR during circular osteotomy of the TT influence the final displacement of the PT insertion in all 3 planes.

Innovative approach to laparoscopic adrenalectomy for treatment of unilateral adrenal gland tumors in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To report a technique for, and short-term outcome of unilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy in dogs positioned in sternal recumbency without abdominal support. STUDY DESIGN: Experimental and prospective clinical study. ANIMALS: Healthy dogs (n = 5) and dogs with unilateral adrenal gland tumor (n = 9). METHODS: Anesthetized dogs were positioned in sternal recumbency with 2 cushions placed under the dog to elevate the chest and pelvic area so that the abdomen was not in contact with the surgical table allowing gravitational displacement of the abdominal viscera. Three 5-mm portals were located in the paralumbar fossa. Adrenal glands were carefully dissected and surrounding tissues sealed and cut using a vessel-sealing device. A retrieval bag or part of a surgical glove finger was used to remove the adrenal gland from the abdomen. Surgical time and complications were recorded, and short-term outcome assessed. RESULTS: Adrenal glands in normal dogs and unilateral adrenal tumors (8 left, 1 right) not involving the caudal vena cava in affected dogs were successfully removed laparoscopically. There were no major intraoperative complications. Of the dogs with adrenal tumors, 1 dog died within 24 hours of surgery from unrelated causes. Eight dogs recovered within 1 day and were discharged within 72 hours. Surgical times ranged from 42 to 117 minutes and were significantly shorter than those reported previously. CONCLUSIONS: Positioning anesthetized dogs in sternal recumbency with the abdomen suspended to facilitate gravitational displacement of the abdominal viscera improves access to, and visibility of, the adrenal gland for laparoscopic removal.

Intercostal insertion of Veress needle for canine laparoscopic procedures: a cadaver study.

OBJECTIVE: To record and compare the frequency of organ penetration after insertion of a Veress needle (VN) in 6 different intercostal spaces (ICS) for creation of pneumoperitoneum in canine cadavers. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive study. ANIMALS: Canine cadavers (n = 15). METHODS: In 15 cadavers positioned in dorsal recumbency, VN insertion in the right and left 8th-10th ICS was performed, the abdomen insufflated, and VN position and any visceral penetration recorded. The frequency of viscus penetration was assessed in all insertion sites. RESULTS: In cadavers, the right 9th ICS was associated with the lowest number of organ penetrations after VN insertion. CONCLUSION: In cadavers, the position associated with the lowest frequency of penetrating any intraabdominal structure was the 9th ICSon the right side.

Right intercostal insertion of a Veress needle for laparoscopy in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate right intercostal Veress needle (VN) insertion for laparoscopy in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Longitudinal cohort study. ANIMALS: Female dogs (n = 56). METHODS: The VN was inserted in the last palpable right intercostal space, either 1/3 (Group T; 28 dogs) or mid distance (Group H; 28 dogs) from the xiphoid cartilage to the most caudal extent of the costal arch. Problems encountered during VN insertion and injuries were recorded, graded, and compared between groups, and also between the first and last 20 insertions. RESULTS: Pneumoperitoneum was successfully achieved by VN insertion in 49 (88%) dogs after a single (45 dogs) or 2nd attempt (4 dogs). Frequency of complications was as follows: 20 grade 1 (subcutaneous emphysema, omentum, or falciform injuries); 6 grade 2 (liver or spleen injury), and 1 grade 3 complication (pneumothorax occurred). No significant difference was found between the 2 groups or between the first and last 20 dogs. CONCLUSIONS: Right intercostal VN insertion facilitates pneumoperitoneum in dogs with few consequential complications. No significant difference was found between entry sites; however, the mid distance insertion site in the last palpable intercostal space with dog positioned in dorsal recumbency is likely to result in less complications.

Thymomas in rabbits: clinical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.

Thymomas are rarely recorded in rabbits, and the literature includes comparatively few cases. Medical records were reviewed to identify all pet rabbits in which a mediastinal mass was diagnosed between Feb 2007 and Jan 2010. Signalment, history, clinical signs, diagnostic work-up (including laboratory data, diagnostic imaging, and ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration of the mediastinal mass), treatment modalities, survival time, and histologic findings were evaluated. Cytologic and/or histopathologic examinations revealed thymomas in all rabbits with mediastinal masses (n=13). Rabbits with thymomas showed clinical signs of dyspnea (76.9%), exercise intolerance (53.9%), and bilateral exophthalmos (46.2%). In seven rabbits the thymoma was removed surgically. Two rabbits were treated conservatively, and four rabbits were euthanized because of their poor clinical condition. The two rabbits that underwent surgery were euthanized 6 mo and 34 mo later. Mediastinal masses in rabbits appear to be more common than previously believed and consist primarily of thymomas rather than thymic lymphomas. Cytology of samples collected by ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration is an accurate diagnostic tool for the identification of thymomas in rabbits. Due to a high rate of perioperative mortality, intensive perioperative care and the provision of a low-stress environment are recommended for a successful thoracotomy.

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome.

Dogs presenting with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome suffer from multilevel obstruction of the airway as well as secondary structural collapse. Stenotic nares, aberrant turbinates, nasopharyngeal collapse, soft palate hyperplasia, macroglossia, tonsillar hypertrophy, laryngeal collapse, and left bronchial collapse are described as the most common associated anomalies. Rhinoplasty and palatoplasty as well as newer surgical techniques and prudent preoperative and postoperative care strategies have resulted in significant improvement even in middle-aged dogs.

Tongue and Upper Airway Dimensions: A Comparative Study between Three Popular Brachycephalic Breeds.

Relative macroglossia has been identified in brachycephalic compared to mesaticephalic dogs. This study assessed the tongue volume comparing three common brachycephalic breeds, including 30 French bulldogs, 30 pugs, and 15 English bulldogs. Computed tomography scans of intubated dogs with the hard palate suspended were examined for total tongue volume and cross-sectional areas (CSAs) of the tongue, oropharynx, soft palate, and nasopharyngeal airways at three levels: 1, caudal tip of the hard palate; 2, caudal tip of the hamulus; 3 cranial to the basihyoid bone. Tongue volume normalized to bodyweight, was significantly higher in English and French bulldogs than in pugs. Normalized to skull length, CSA of the tongue was smaller in pugs than in French and English bulldogs. At level 3, French bulldogs had larger oropharyngeal CSA than English bulldogs and pugs. Soft palate CSA was the largest in English bulldogs at level 3. At levels 1 and 2, soft palate and nasopharyngeal CSA was the smallest in pugs. At level 3, French bulldogs had higher total airway/soft tissue ratios than pugs. The smaller tongue volume in pugs questions the accuracy of the term macroglossia in this breed and these findings should be considered if surgical correction is sought.