Cecal volvulus in a ewe.

Cecal volvulus in a ewe was diagnosed and surgically treated. Clinical signs were similar to those observed in cattle with cecal volvulus. Rectal palpation, which is an important diagnostic aid in cattle, was not possible in the ewe. Thus, the decision for surgery was based on clinical signs indicative of gastrointestinal obstruction, with the diagnosis of cecal volvulus being made at the time of surgery. Recovery after surgery was rapid, and follow-up evaluation at 13 months indicated no recurrence of the problem.

Repair of a proximal diaphyseal femoral fracture in a calf, using intramedullary pinning, cerclage wiring, and external fixation.

Repair of a comminuted, spiral oblique, proximal diaphyseal femoral fracture in a 7-day-old calf was achieved by use of an intramedullary pin, cerclage wires, and external fixator. Six stainless steel wires were used for full cerclage to secure a long butterfly fragment and multiple incomplete and complete nondisplaced fragments to the femur in order to create 2 principal fragments. Axial alignment and resistance to bending was provided by a round, double-pointed, end-threaded intramedullary pin (6.35 mm in diameter), which was inserted in a retrograde fashion. A type-1, double-connecting-bar external fixator, using 4 round pins (4.8 mm in diameter), was used to provide supplemental stabilization against shear and torsional forces. At 45 days after surgery, healing at the fracture site was seen on radiography of the limb, and the external fixator was removed. Eight months after surgery, the calf had a normal gait.