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Background: The main indications to splenectomy in dogs are splenic neoplasms and torsions as well as serious injuries and hemolytic diseases refractory to medical therapy. Animal laparoscopic splenectomy is basically described in experimental studies, while in humans the technique has been established as a standard surgical treatment of splenic disorders. Due to the shortage of reports showing the applicability of this technique in veterinary routine, this study aimed to report a case of laparoscopic splenectomy using bipolar hemostasis and transparietal sutures in a dog that presented splenic mass. Case: A 12-years-old dachshund male was referred for splenectomy due to suspected of splenic neoplasm, after observation of splenic nodules during an ultrasound examination. The splenectomy was performed by videosurgery, with three portal accesses after clinical and laboratory evaluation. The first portal was positioned laterally to the fourth right mammary gland, and the second one in the umbilicus scar; the third one was introduced by paramedian access, laterally to the penis (on the left position). After establishment of CO2 pneumoperitoneum was visualized the splenic mass and performed the first temporary transparietal suture using nylon 0; the spleen was elevated in order to exposure the branches of the splenic vessels. It was realized bipolar cauterization and splenic ablation, near to the organ surface. The lifting spleen procedure (transparietal suture) was performed additionally more two times, allowing complete hemostasis of the splenic branches and their subsequent section. After splenic excision, it was allocated in retrieval bag for removal tissues by the second portal. The suture of the orifices in the abdominal wall was done with cruciate mattress suture (polyglactin 910 2-0); the same material and standard were used to reduce the subcutaneous space. Skin suture was performed with nylon 4-0 and simple interrupted points. The excised organ was analyzed by histopathological exam and it revealed a splenic nodular hyperplasia. Discussion: The pathological changes in the spleen could be neoplastic or not neoplastic, and it usually appears as a generalized splenomegaly or nodular organ. In this case, it was opted to perform total splenectomy considering that the neoplasms have significantly higher occurrence than other pathologic processes, the incidence of splenic changes is greater in seniors, the most part of spleen neoplasms are malignant, and the histopathological analysis is essential to distinguish the abnormalities. Additionally, the option is supported by the indication of other authors, who suggest the analysis of the entire surgical specimen. Despite the conventional splenectomy is commonly performed in dogs, the procedure was performed laparoscopically in order to minimize postoperative complications and discomfort, reduce the time of hospitalization and rehabilitation and to obtain a better cosmetic effect, considering the small size of the mass. Bipolar cauterization was performed near to the hilum, and in order tofacilitate hemostasis, maneuvers as a spleen elevation with transparietals sutures were important to the procedure success. Comparing to the conventional procedure, when a large abdominal incision in the ventral midline is necessary for proper exposure of the spleen, minimally invasive techniques become a less traumatic option; especially in the spleen, an abdominal organ easily accessed by laparoscopy. It is possible diagnosis and treatment of splenic diseases in a unique section. We concluded that laparoscopic splenectomy is feasible and safe in dogs, making it a suitable choice of surgical treatment for selected splenic masses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by increased cerebrospinal fluid volume, with progressive dilatation of the ventricular system, with subsequent destruction and atrophy of the brain parenchyma. The congenital form is the most observed in the first months of life and occurs more frequently in small breed dogs. Because of the importance of this disease in the differential diagnosis in young dogs with signs cortical thalamus and the lack of national literature on the subject, the objective of this report was to present ten cases of congenital hydrocephalus in dogs and information about the race, sex, age, neurological signs, the findings of complementary tests and response to therapy. Cases: Ten dogs were referred to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital of the UFSM, being three mixed breed dogs, two Lhasa apso, two Dachshunds, one Poodle, one English Bulldog and one Yorkshire terrier, aged between one month and one year and six months, seven females and three males. In all cases, the owners reported during anamnesis, altered level of consciousness (drowsiness or hallucination) and behavior and learning difficulties. For anatomical location of the lesion was performed complete neurological examination. As complementary tests were requested hemogram and serum biochemistry. In some individuals was performed analysis of cerebrospinal fluid by puncturing the lower back. transcranial ultrasound examination was performed only in five dogs. Opposite the historical, clinical, neurological and laboratory test findings, the diagnosis was congenital hydrocephalus. After the diagnosis, seven dogs were subjected to treatment with corticosteroids and three dogs were euthanized at the option of the owner. Of the seven treated dogs, none had a satisfactory clinical improvement during long time. Five dogs died during clinical treatment and were not subject to the necropsy by the lack of notification by the owners. Discussion: Congenital hydrocephalus is diagnosed more frequently than acquired in routine clinical small animal. In addition, young animals are the most affected by the primary hydrocephalus. The mean age of the dogs of this report was four months. Only one dog was over one year old, but the history, the onset of clinical signs was at six months of age. As for breed all were predisposed breeds and crossbred dogs were small, as described in the literature. Due to accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricular system, clinical signs occur by compression of adjacent brain parenchyma. The clinical signs in dogs found in this study were changes in behavior and level of consciousness, characterized by drowsiness and/or hallucinations (100%), skull increased volume (80%), bilateral lateral ventral strabismus (60%), seizures (30%), non ambulatory tetraparesis (20%), walking in circles (20%) and head turn (10%). As the evolution of clinical signs, although some patients may remain stable for some time, clinical signs are generally progressive. In nine dogs of this study the signs were progressive. Medical therapy includes general supportive care and medication to reduce the production of cerebrospinal fluid and hence reduce intracranial pressure. Various medications are used for this purpose, such as corticosteroids, diuretics and blockers carbonic anhydrase. In this study, the protocol was instituted therapy with prednisolone at the dose of 0.5 mg kg (body weight) oral, every 24 h for 14 days. Three dogs had mild clinical improvement in the first week of therapy, however, subsequently had worsening of neurological signs. The study has as clinical relevance, the importance of congenital hydrocephalus in the differential diagnosis of young dogs with neurological signs of cortical thalamus, and the effective ultrasound examination to conclude the diagnosis. The prognosis is poor in patients undergoing medical treatment with corticosteroids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The ovariosalpingohisterectomy (OSH) is the treatment of choice for the remaining ovary syndrome and canine pyometra, which can be performed by conventional or laparoscopic approach. In recent years, have developed new techniques for laparoscopic treatment of uterine and ovarian diseases in dogs. However, there are few reports of laparoscopic OSH for treatment of ovarian remnant syndrome and stump pyometra. Thus, the present report aims to describe the use of laparoscopy for the treatment of pyometra uterine horns and ovaries in a bitch remaining. Case: A bitch, mixed breed, with two years of age, was answered with a history of heat after being submitted to OSH was five months. Against clinical and ultrasonographic findings, the diagnosis was the remaining ovary syndrome pyometra and uterine horns, the animal being referred for laparoscopic surgery to remove the remaining uterine and ovarian tissue. After placing two laparoscopic portals, the animal was placed in right lateral recumbency. After the seizure of the ovarian ligament itself with the Kelly forceps, was held dual temporary transparietal suture for better exposure of the left arteriovenous ovarian complex. Was continued with bipolar cautery and Metzenbaum scissors with section. The animal was repositioned in the left lateral decubitus position, and the procedure was repeated on the right ovarian arterial-venous complex. The animal was positioned in dorsal recumbency again. Was held to apply temporary transparietal suture involving the urinary bladder for inspection of the uterine stump, without this change. There was exposure of the ovaries and uterine segments from the removal of the cannula and aspiration of uterine contents with the aid of a catheter 18. Verifying the absence of hemorrhage, the cavity was deflated, and the wounds sutured into muscle level access quilter cross pattern with 2-0 polyglactin 910. Subcutaneous suture was performed with the same wire a simple continuous pattern. The skin was occluded with a 3-0 monofilament nylon in standard default horizontal quilter stopped. Discussion: Patient in this report, when it was found the remaining ovaries and uterine horns increased in volume, remained the proposal OSH by laparoscopy, once the laparoscopic surgery is associated with better and faster postoperative recovery, as well as lower production of painful stimuli, magnification of images, the possibility of wide-ranging exploration of the peritoneal cavity, decreases the length of hospitalization and intensive care at that stage. Despite the success of previous reports of therapeutic video-assisted OSH in dogs and cats, the use of laparoscopic OSH with two portals for the treatment of ovarian remnant syndrome is still scarce in the small animal clinic. The minimally invasive procedure has disadvantages as a steep learning curve, with consequent initial prolonged surgical time and high operating costs. On the other hand, laparoscopy has less adhesion formation and better preservation of lung function. This may have contributed to the rapid postoperative recovery this dog. It is concluded therefore that laparoscopic OSH with two portals proved effective and beneficial in the treatment of ovarian remnant stump pyometra and uterine horn can be used in dogs as an alternative to conventional surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The ovarian remnant syndrome (ORS) is the persistence of ovarian activity in spayed bitches or queens, which results from failure in complete gonadal removal or due to the presence of accessory ovaries on the uterine broad ligament. In most of cases, surgical approach may be required in order to both diagnose and treat the syndrome. The current case report describes the usefulness of video-assisted surgery as an alternative to diagnosis and treatment of an unusual case of ORS and stump piometra in a bitch. Case: The purpose of the current study was to report the case of a 4-year-old Dachshund bitch, bearing paraplegia due to intervertebral disk disease (IVDD), showing estrus and pseudo pregnancy regularly for two years. This report describes the use of alternative exploratory video-assisted laparoscopy followed by ovariectomy as a safe and effective method for both diagnosing and treating the ORS and stump pyometra uterine horn held in HV-UPF. Following complementary exams, the patient was submitted to ultrasonography, which revealed the presence of masses resembling ovaries caudally to the respective renal caudal pole. A two-portal laparoscopic-assisted approach was chosen for the surgical treatment. The intact ovary and a remnant uterine horn stump were present on the right side. On the left side, there was the intact ovary. The overall surgical time was 115 min and the postoperative was uneventful. The patient was discharged following 10 days of the surgery, right after removal of the skin sutures. The excised specimen was referred to the Laboratory of Animal Pathology of the UPF for both macroscopic and histological assessment. The macroscopic exam revealed the presence of both complete ovaries and the remnant uterine horn stump presented remnants of purulent content. The histologic assessment revealed several follicles and corpus luteum, besides mild perifollicular multifocal hemorrhage. On the second ovary, there were ovarian follicles and the remnant uterine horn presented discrete multifocal cystic endometrial hyperplasia. Discussion: The treatment of choice to ORS is surgical removal of the remnant tissue, especially due to the risk of development of neoplastic disease. The occurrence of ORS, as observed in the current case report, can be attributed to improper surgical technique during elective OVH. In our case, there was incomplete removal of both ovaries and incomplete resection of the right uterine horn. In face of the advantages associated to the laparoscopic access, we opted for a two-portal approach. In this special case, regarding a patient bearing paraplegia and consequent fecal and urinary incontinence, we chose the endosurgical approach due to the reduced incision length, which could have resulted in decreased risk of wound fecal and urine contamination or infection. During laparoscopy, it was seen that the right ovary was intact, without rupture of the suspensory ligament and the presence of a segment of the right uterine horn. In these cases, the remnant tissue is most frequently found on the right side, fairly probably due its deep and cranial anatomical topography. Such condition could lead to poor exposition/viewing of the right pedicle and ovary. In cases of both impaired access and visualization of the mesovarium in patients positioned in dorsal decumbency, it is recommended to slightly rotate the patient in the lateromedial direction to the opposite side. In conclusion, the two-port laparoscopic approach is effective for the surgical management of ovarian remnants associated to stump piometra in the bitch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sialocele or salivary mucocele is the accumulation of saliva in the glandular connective tissue due to a leakage from damaged salivary duct, which is surrounded by granulation tissue. The mucocele can be classified according to its location (cervical, pharyngeal or sublingual, the latter being known as ranula). The treatment consists of salivary gland and duct excision. However, in some cases, the definition of which side is affected is a challenge for surgeons. Keeping this in view, the aim of the present study was to describe the use of rigid endoscopy to determine the affected gland in a dog with cervical mucocele. Case: A five-year-old Dachshund, weighting 8.2 kg, was presenting progressive swelling in the ventral cervical area. The animal presented apathy, appetite loss and saliva drooling. A fluctuant, non-painful, fluid filled mass was noted on physical examination. Sialocele was diagnosed and surgery was undertaken to excise the involved gland and mass. The patient was positioned in dorsal recumbence. A skin incision was performed in the cranial-ventral aspect of the mass as it was not possible to precise the affected side. Following drainage of the content, the inner aspect of the sialocele capsule was digitally palpated using the surgeon's index finger. However, it was still not possible to determinate the affected side. A purse-string suture was performed around the incision and a 10mm cannula was inserted into the sialocele lumen. The cavity was insufflated with CO2, then using a 0° 10 mm endoscope, the whole extension of the capsule was inspected. On the right side, the wall was round shaped, suggesting the presence of the right gland compressing the wall of the affected gland to the left. On the left side, there were some recesses and irregular surfaces, and an orifice was identified, suggesting the presence of the ducts opening. Therefore, the left sublingual and mandibular glands were excised conventionally. The procedure lasted 150 min and it was performed uneventfully. The patient was followed-up for seven days and skin sutures were removed after complete primary intention healing. Thirty days postoperative the patient presented no signs of recurrence. Discussion: Although several maneuvers were performed in order to diagnose the affected side in the current report, some doubt remained. Thus, endoscopic diagnosis was tested, which has not been reported for that purpose in the author's knowledge. Although not completely conclusive, such examination provided strong basis that the left side was affected. A month after the treatment, recurrence did not occur, which is usually one of the most common complications. Therefore, the exam purposed in this report fulfilled its expectancies, suggesting that rigid endoscopy may be used as a new tool for identification of which side and gland are involved in complicated extensive salivary mucoceles cases. Another important aspect of the procedure was the insufflation of the mucocele cavity that allowed the inner capsule inspection and did not result in subcutaneous emphysema. It was applied a pressure of 15 mmHg, higher than routinely used for laparoscopy in dogs, since it is a limited region, and presents reduced risk of subcutaneous absorption or alteration by compression. In conclusion, endoscopic view of the sialocele inner capsule is feasible in dogs as an adjunct for diagnosing the affected side in complicated cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]