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Canine congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt (EHPSS) morphologies have not been fully elucidated. The goal of this retrospective, multi-institutional study was to use CT angiography to create an anatomical-based nomenclature system for canine congenital EHPSS. These shunt morphologies were then evaluated to identify any significant association with patient age, sex, breed, weight, or subjective portal perfusion score. Data collected respectively from the SVSTS and VIRIES list-serves included patient DOB, sex, breed, weight, CT date, and reported diagnosis. A single author (C.W.) viewed all CT scans and classified shunts based on the shunt portal vessel(s) of origin, the shunt systemic vessel(s) of insertion, and any substantial portal vessels contributing to the shunt. Additionally, hepatic portal perfusion was subjectively scored between one (poor/none) and five (good/normal) based on the caliber of the intrahepatic portal veins. A total of 1182 CT scans were submitted from 13 different institutions. Due to exclusion criteria, 100 (8.5%) were removed, leaving 1082 CT scans to be included. Forty-five different EHPSS anatomies were identified with five classifications accounting for 85% of all shunts (left gastric-phrenic [27%], left gastric-azygos [19%], left gastric-caval [15%], aberrant left gastric-caval with right gastric vein [12%], and aberrant left gastric-caval with right gastric vein and short gastric vein [11%]). Shunt origin involved the left gastric vein in 95% of the described classifications. Significant differences were identified among the five most common shunt types with respect to age at the time of the CT scan (P < .001), sex (P = .009), breed (P < .001), weight (P < .001), and subjective portal perfusion score (P < .001). An anatomical classification system for canine EHPSS may enable improved understanding, treatment comparisons, and outcome prediction for these patients., (© 2024 American College of Veterinary Radiology.)

Dogs with a brachycephalic conformation often experience a collection of abnormalities related to their craniofacial conformation, which can lead to a variety of clinical signs such as stertor, exercise intolerance, respiratory distress, and gastrointestinal signs such as regurgitation, among others. This collection of abnormalities is termed brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). With the rise in popularity of several brachycephalic breeds, veterinarians and veterinary surgery specialists are seeing these dogs with increasing frequency for surgical and medical treatment of these clinical signs, leading to an increased interest in developing surgical techniques for dogs with BOAS and evaluating objective methods of determining outcome after surgery. Advances in anesthetic management including standardized protocols and use of local nerve blocks to decrease opiate use may decrease postoperative complications. A variety of new or modified surgical techniques to manage hyperplastic soft palate and stenotic nares, among other BOAS components, have been developed and studied in recent years. Newer studies have also focused on risk factors for development of major complications in the postoperative period and on objective measurements that may help determine which patients will receive the most benefit from BOAS surgery. In this review, the newest studies focused on updates in anesthetic management, surgical techniques, and postoperative care will be discussed. Additionally, updated information on complication rates and outcomes for dogs undergoing surgical management of BOAS will be included., (© 2024 The Author(s). Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Background: The objectives of this study were to: (i) Determine whether operable primary liver tumors were associated with prolongations in prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and (ii) determine if these secondary hemostatic abnormalities were more prevalent with specific liver tumors., Study Design: Multi-institutional retrospective study., Animal Population: Dogs (n = 359) undergoing liver lobectomy for a primary liver tumor with a preoperative coagulation panel., Methods: Data was identified via electronic medical record review at eight veterinary teaching hospitals. Baseline dog characteristics, coagulation panel values, platelet count, emergency versus non-emergency procedure, whether the dogs received transfusion(s) of a blood product, liver lobe removed, and histopathological diagnosis were extracted from the medical record. Chi-square analysis was used to compare categorical variables between groups. Continuous variables were assessed for normality using the Shapiro-Wilk test., Results: A total of 74 of 359 dogs (20.6%) had a prolongation in either PT or aPTT preoperatively. A total of 20 of 359 dogs (5.6%) were found to have prolongation of both PT and aPTT. Hemangiosarcoma was the only histopathological diagnosis associated with concurrent prolongations of both PT and aPTT (p < .001) in 6/16 (37.5%) dogs., Conclusion: Coagulation panels including PT and aPTT are unlikely to detect substantial deficiencies in secondary hemostasis in most dogs with primary liver tumors except in dogs with a histopathological diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma., Clinical Significance: PT and aPTT testing is low yield as an elective preoperative screening test in dogs with primary liver tumors except in dogs where there is a hemoabdomen or high suspicion for hepatic hemangiosarcoma., (© 2024 The Author(s). Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Background: Enhanced platelet responses have been demonstrated in heartworm-infected (HWI) dogs; however, the cause and clinical implications of altered platelet function have not been fully elucidated., Objective: This study evaluated platelet function in HWI dogs., Methods: Anticoagulated whole blood collected from eight HWI and eight uninfected dogs was evaluated using turbidometric platelet aggregometry, a platelet function analyzer (PFA-100), a total thrombus analysis system (T-TAS), tissue factor-activated and tissue plasminogen activator modified thromboelastography (TF- and tPA-TEG), CBC, von Willebrand Factor activity, and fibrinogen concentrations. Platelet activation state and the presence of reticulated platelets were assessed via flow cytometric expression of P-selection (CD-62P) and thiazole orange staining., Results: Platelet aggregation responses to adenosine diphosphate (ADP, 10 μM) or collagen (20 μg/mL), PFA-100 closure times, and T-TAS occlusion times did not differ between groups. TEG values TF-R, tPA-R, TF-K, and TF-LY60 were decreased (P = .025, P = .047, P  = .038, P  = .025) and TF-MA, tPA-MA, TF-G, tPA-G and TF-alpha angle were increased (P  < .04) in HWI dogs. HWI dogs had higher fibrinogen concentrations (465.6 ± 161 mg/dL vs 284.5 ± 38 mg/dL, P  = .008) and eosinophil counts (0.686 ± 0.27 × 10 3 /μL vs 0.267 ± 0.20 × 10 3 /μL, P  = .003). There was no difference in hematocrit, activation state, or percent of reticulated platelets. Non-activated reticulated platelets exhibited higher CD62P expression compared with mature platelets., Conclusions: Chronic canine heartworm disease was accompanied by hypercoagulability, hyperfibrinogenemia, and decreased fibrinolysis. Enhanced platelet activation was not identified in this group of HWI dogs., (© 2024 The Authors. Veterinary Clinical Pathology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.)

Objective: To assess the predictability of the hemangiosarcoma likelihood prediction (HeLP) score and the Tufts Splenic Tumor Assessment Tool (T-STAT) for hemangiosarcoma and malignancy, respectively., Animals: 261 dogs undergoing splenectomy for a splenic mass., Methods: Medical records were retrospectively reviewed; variables for the HeLP score and T-STAT were collected, and scores were assigned. Area under the curve (AUC) was calculated for each score., Results: The HeLP score included 141 dogs; hemangiosarcoma was diagnosed in 87 (61.7%) dogs. The median cumulative HeLP score was 51 (range, 17 to 82; IQR, 39 to 58) for dogs with hemangiosarcoma and 28 (range, 0 to 70; IQR, 17 to 41) for dogs without hemangiosarcoma. The categorical HeLP score was low (28; 32.2%), medium (31; 35.6%), and high (28; 32.2%) for dogs with hemangiosarcoma and was low (41; 75.9%), medium (9; 16.7%), and high (4; 7.4%) for dogs without hemangiosarcoma. The AUC of the cumulative and categorical HeLP scores for diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma were 0.79 (95% CI, 0.71 to 0.86) and 0.73 (95% CI, 0.65 to 0.82), respectively. The T-STAT included 181 dogs. Lesions were benign in 95 (52.5%) and malignant in 86 (47.5%) dogs. The median T-STAT score was 62% (range, 5% to 98%; IQR, 36% to 77%) for dogs with malignant lesions and 38% (range, 5% to 91%; IQR, 24% to 59%) for dogs with benign lesions. The T-STAT had an AUC of 0.68 (0.60 to 0.76) for diagnosis of malignancy., Clinical Relevance: The HeLP score had acceptable performance, and the T-STAT had poor performance for diagnosis prediction. A tool with excellent or outstanding discrimination is needed to more reliably predict the presence of hemangiosarcoma or a malignant lesion preoperatively.

Objective: To report the clinical characteristics, treatments, and outcomes in a cohort of dogs with histologically confirmed retroperitoneal sarcoma (RPS) and to identify potential variables of prognostic significance., Animals: 46 client-owned dogs from 10 clinics with histopathologic diagnosis of a sarcoma originating from the retroperitoneal space., Methods: Medical records were retrospectively reviewed to obtain information regarding clinical characteristics, treatments, and outcomes. Recorded variables were analyzed to report descriptive data for all cases and overall survival time. Multivariate analysis was utilized to evaluate prognostic factors for overall survival., Results: Hemangiosarcoma was the most common histologic subtype diagnosed (76.1%). Cytoreductive and curative intent surgical excision of the RPS was attempted in 12 and 22 dogs, respectively; 12 dogs underwent no surgery or had an exploratory laparotomy with incisional biopsy only. Nineteen dogs received adjuvant chemotherapy, either injectable or metronomic, and 1 dog received adjuvant radiation therapy. Fourteen of the 34 (41.2%) surgically treated dogs developed evidence of local recurrence, but there was no difference in local recurrence when comparing dogs categorized as curative intent versus cytoreductive surgery. The median overall survival time was 238 days. On multivariable analysis, treatment approach was associated with survival with surgical excision (vs palliative treatment) and adjuvant chemotherapy following surgery being protective against death. A diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma was associated with a greater hazard of death., Clinical Relevance: This study demonstrates a substantially greater survival time than previously published and suggests a survival benefit from surgical excision and adjuvant chemotherapy.

Objective: To describe demographics, clinical presentation, shunt anatomy, clinical progression, and complications in large dogs ≥15 kg with single extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (EHPSS) treated with or without surgery., Study Design: Multicenter retrospective (10 university hospitals, one private referral institution)., Animals: Dogs ≥15 kg (n = 63)., Methods: Medical records of dogs ≥15 kg diagnosed with EHPSS between January 01, 2005 and December 31, 2020 were reviewed. Dogs had a minimum follow-up of 90 days. Signalment, clinical signs, diagnostics, shunt anatomy, treatment interventions, and perioperative complications were assessed., Results: Median age was 21.9 months (IQR: 9-36.8). The breed most represented was the Golden retriever (17/63 dogs). Portocaval (17/63) and splenocaval (15/63) shunt configurations were most common. Portal vein hypoplasia was noted in 18 imaging reports. Of the surgically treated dogs, 14/45 (35.6%) had short-term complications, and 3/45 (6.7%) had shunt-related deaths. Medical management was discontinued in 15/40 and reduced in 9/40 of surviving dogs who had surgical attenuation. All medically managed, nonattenuated dogs (18/18) were maintained on their original shunt-related medication regimens., Conclusions: Clinical presentation of dogs ≥15 kg with extrahepatic portosystemic shunts was similar to the more commonly reported small breed dogs. Surgical management of single EHPSS in large dogs ≥15 kg had similar clinical short-term outcomes as small breed dogs., Clinical Significance: Clinicians should be aware that large breed dogs with EHPSS share similar characteristics and clinical outcomes to small breed dogs. The significance of the presence of a hypoplastic portal vein warrants further research. Surgical treatment is a viable option for large breed dogs with EHPSS., (© 2023 The Authors. Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To evaluate the difference in postoperative pain scores of dogs undergoing abdominal surgery receiving surgical incision infiltration of saline or bupivacaine liposomal injectable suspension (BLIS)., Animals: 40 dogs undergoing exploratory laparotomy., Methods: Dogs were prospectively enrolled and randomized to receive either BLIS or saline surgical incision infiltration. All dogs received 5.3 mg of BLIS/kg or an equal volume of saline infiltrated in the muscle/fascia, subcutaneous tissue, and intradermal layer during closure. All dogs received a standardized postoperative pain management protocol. Pain assessment was performed at select time points postoperatively by blinded observers with an electronic algometer, short version of the Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale (GCMPS), and indirect measures of pain, including systolic blood pressure, heart rate, and serum cortisol levels., Results: At day 0, blood pressure was higher in the saline group (149.6 vs 125.8 mm Hg; P = .006). At day 3, GCMPS was lower in the BLIS group (BLIS = 1, saline = 2, P = .027), though both average GCMPS scores were low and only 10 dogs were available for day 3 assessments (6 BLIS and 4 saline). No other differences in algometer readings, GCMPS scores, other measured parameters, or need for rescue analgesia were present between BLIS and saline groups at any time point. There was no difference in postoperative incisional infection rate or complications., Clinical Relevance: Use of BLIS for exploratory laparotomy did not provide improved pain control over postoperative opioid administration alone. Patients that received BLIS had no increase in short-term complications.

Objective: To identify risk factors for intra- and postoperative ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) and in-hospital mortality in dogs undergoing splenectomy for splenic masses., Animals: 308 dogs., Methods: Records from 2010 through 2018 were reviewed for dogs undergoing splenectomy for a splenic mass. Clinical and laboratory findings on admission, diagnostic imaging, anesthesia, surgery and pathology reports, treatment records, and in-hospital mortality were evaluated with logistic regression., Results: VAs occurred in 138 (44.8%) dogs (126/308 [40.9%] postoperative, 51/308 [16.6%] intraoperative, 26/308 [8.4%] preoperative), with 50/308 (16.2%) dogs having more than one type of VA. Increasing heart rate and body weight, decreasing PCV and platelet count, hemoperitoneum, receipt of a transfusion, and diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma were associated with the presence of intra- and postoperative VAs on univariable analysis (all P < .001). On multivariable analysis, hemoperitoneum (P < .001 , < .001), increasing body weight (P = .026, < .001), and increasing heart rate (P = .028, < .001) were significant for intra- and postoperative VAs, respectively. Twenty dogs died (20/308 [6.5%]; 14/138 [10.1%] with VAs, 6/170 [3.5%] without VAs). Intra- and postoperative VAs were associated with in-hospital mortality (P = .009, .025, respectively)., Clinical Relevance: Perioperative VAs were common and odds of VAs were increased with hemoperitoneum, increasing heart rate, and increasing body weight. Presence of VAs increased the odds of in-hospital mortality. Despite this, the overall in-hospital mortality rate was low (6.5%), indicating a good prognosis for survival of surgery in dogs with splenic masses, regardless of the presence of VAs or hemoperitoneum.

Objective: To identify the frequency of and risk factors for acute kidney injury (AKI) in dogs undergoing abdominal surgery for septic peritonitis, and to evaluate outcome and kidney-related risk factors for survival to discharge in those dogs., Animals: 77 dogs that underwent abdominal surgery for septic peritonitis., Methods: Medical records of dogs that underwent surgery for septic peritonitis from 2012 through 2022 were reviewed. Data regarding signalment, clinical and biochemical findings at presentation, blood creatinine concentration throughout hospitalization, surgery characteristics, postoperative monitoring, and outcome were collected. Dogs were classified based on occurrence of AKI and whether they presented with or developed AKI in-hospital. Perioperative risk factors were evaluated, and outcomes were compared with univariable logistic regression., Results: 31 dogs (40.3%) had AKI diagnosed; 18/77 (23.4%) dogs presented with AKI, 11 (61.1%) of which had it postoperatively, and 13/77 (16.9%) dogs developed AKI postoperatively. Significant factors for presenting with AKI included increasing baseline respiratory rate (OR 2.5 for every 10 beats per minute higher), decreasing systolic blood pressure (OR 0.8 for every 10 mm Hg higher), and increasing body condition score (OR 2.2 for every score greater). No significant factors for developing AKI postoperatively were identified after multiple comparisons adjustment. Sixteen dogs (20.8%) did not survive to discharge; 12 (75.0%) had AKI and 4 (25.0%) did not. Dogs with AKI had decreased odds of survival to discharge (OR 0.2)., Clinical Relevance: AKI was common in dogs with septic peritonitis and was a significant risk factor for survival to discharge. Clinical surveillance of AKI is critical in this population.

Objective: Describe clinical features and outcomes of dogs undergoing scar revision for incompletely or narrowly excised cutaneous mast cell tumors without gross disease., Animals: 52 dogs undergoing 54 scar revisions., Procedures: Retrospective record review with information collected on signalment, tumor type/location, pre-surgical diagnostics, surgical and pathologic findings for the first excision and scar revision surgeries, and follow-up. Descriptive statistics were generated., Results: Prior to initial excision, cytology was performed on 38.9% (21/54) of tumors and the initial surgery report rarely described surgical resection margins [14.6% (7/48) of surgeries]. Residual tumor was identified pathologically in 29.6% (16/54) of scars. Local recurrence following scar revision occurred in 3.7% (2/54) of all scars [median follow-up 881.5 d (range: 0 to 3317 d)]; both scars had either complete excision of residual mast cell tumor or no evidence of mast cell tumor on scar revision and neither dog received radiation therapy., Conclusions: Identification of residual disease was uncommon, and local recurrence was less common than previously reported for incomplete/narrow mast cell tumor excision., Clinical Relevance: Scar revision of unplanned primary excisions appears to yield a high likelihood of durable tumor remission in patients. First opinion practitioners are encouraged to avoid unplanned excisions by informing the surgical plan with cytology of the primary tumor and detailing surgical margin excision which may facilitate revision, if necessary., (Copyright and/or publishing rights held by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.)

Objective: Describe clinical features of dogs undergoing scar revision for incompletely or narrowly excised soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) in the absence of gross disease and to determine local recurrence rates following scar revision., Animals: Thirty-three dogs with 33 scars., Procedures: Medical records were reviewed to collect data on signalment, tumor details, pre-surgical diagnostic tests, surgical and pathologic findings for both the initial and revision surgeries, and clinical outcomes. Descriptive statistics were generated., Results: For the initial excision, cytology was performed before surgery in 45.5% (15/33) of dogs, and information on surgical margins was rarely reported [4.0% (1/25) of circumferential and 12.0% (3/25) of deep margins]. Microscopic evidence of residual STS was identified in 18.2% of scars. Recurrence occurred in 3.0% (1/33) of dogs [median follow-up of 1127 d (1 to 3192 d)]; this dog had had no evidence of residual tumor in the scar revision pathology., Conclusions: Despite the low identification rate of residual tumor, the local tumor recurrence rate was 3.0%, which is lower than what is historically reported for incompletely or narrowly excised STSs., Clinical Relevance: Scar revision for incompletely or narrowly excised STSs resulted in durable tumor remission in the dogs of this study. Pre-surgical diagnostic tests were not often performed in this study; these may be considered before the first excision to plan surgical margins for potentially reducing the incidence of incomplete or narrow excision. Surgical reports should include details on circumferential and deep margins to guide pathologic interpretation and future scar revision, if required., (Copyright and/or publishing rights held by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.)

Objective: To describe complications and outcomes of dogs undergoing thoracoscopic-assisted (TA) lung lobectomy., Study Design: Multi-institutional, retrospective study., Animals: Client-owned dogs (n = 30)., Methods: Medical records of dogs that underwent TA lung lobectomy were reviewed. Signalment, bodyweight, clinical signs, imaging findings, surgical variables, complications, and short-term/long-term outcome were assessed. Thoracoscopic-assisted lung lobectomy was performed with a mini-thoracotomy., Results: Twelve intraoperative complications were recorded in 11 dogs, 6 requiring conversion to open thoracotomy. Reasons for conversion were reported in 5/6 dogs and included adhesions (2), difficultly manipulating the lesion through the mini-thoracotomy (2), and acute oxygen desaturation (1). One lung ventilation was successful in 4 of the 7 dogs in which this was attempted. A linear stapling device (DST series Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minnesota) was used for lung lobe ligation in 14 dogs. Twenty-three dogs underwent surgery for a neoplastic lesion, with 19 of these being carcinoma. The median lesion size was 4.3 cm (range 1-10 cm); margins were clean, except in 1 dog. Complications were documented in 8 dogs prior to discharge, 5 of these being classified as mild. Twenty-nine dogs were discharged at a median of 47 h postoperatively (range 24-120 h). Death was reported in 9 dogs, with a median survival time of 168 days (range 70-868 days)., Conclusion: Thoracoscopic-assisted lung lobectomy was achieved with few major complications in the population reported here. Dogs were able to be discharged from hospital quickly, with most surviving beyond the follow-up period., Clinical Significance: Thoracoscopic-assisted lung lobectomy may be considered to facilitate the excision of larger pulmonary lesions or to treat smaller dogs, in which a thoracoscopic excision may be technically more challenging., (© 2022 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objectives: To compare neonatal survival to discharge rates between brachycephalic and nonbrachycephalic dogs undergoing cesarean section (c-section) and identify risk factors for neonatal mortality., Study Design: Retrospective study., Animals or Sample Population: A total of 480 puppies from 90 bitches undergoing 106 c-sections., Methods: Medical records of c-sections performed between January 2012 and September 2021 were reviewed. Data collected included brachycephalic versus nonbrachycephalic breed, elective versus emergency c-section, litter size (c-section and total [including those born prior to and via c-section]), and neonatal survival to discharge. A generalized linear mixed model (univariable and multivariable) was performed to evaluate variables versus neonatal survival., Results: Overall neonatal survival to discharge was 93.1% (447/480); survival was similar between brachycephalic and nonbrachycephalic breeds (p = .221, 202/213 [94.8%] brachycephalic survival, 245/267 [91.8%] nonbrachycephalic survival). Puppies delivered via elective c-section were more likely to survive compared to emergency c-section (p < .001, 238/240 [99.2%] elective survival, 209/240 [87.1%] emergency survival). Puppies delivered in larger c-section litters were more likely to survive (p < .004) compared to smaller litters. Total litter size had no effect on survival., Conclusion: Brachycephalism had no effect on neonatal survival. Puppies delivered via elective c-section were more likely to survive compared to puppies delivered via emergency c-section., Clinical Significance: Outcomes following c-section are similar between brachycephalic and nonbrachycephalic breeds. While it is preferable to encourage selective breeding for bitches that are able to whelp naturally, elective c-section should be considered in bitches at high risk for dystocia to maximize neonatal survival., (© 2022 The Authors. Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: Describe clinical features, treatment, and outcomes in dogs with deep neck infections., Animals: 19 dogs undergoing surgical treatment of deep neck infections from January 1, 2015, through December 31, 2020., Procedures: Retrospective record review was conducted, with data collected including clinical signs; neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR); diagnostic imaging, surgical, and histopathologic findings; and follow-up. Spearman correlation and Wilcoxon rank sum were used to compare variables to NLR., Results: All dogs had cervical swelling, and 9 were febrile. On CT, a distinct mass or abscess (7/13) or abscessed lymph node (4/13) was common, with contrast enhancement (10/13), fluid tracking (8/13), and displacement of the trachea, pharynx, or larynx (6/13) also frequently seen. Foreign material was suspected on CT for 4 dogs and was identified at surgery or histopathology for 4 dogs, only 1 of which was suspected on CT. Histopathology most commonly revealed pyogranulomatous inflammation (14/15). Increasing NLR was moderately correlated to a decreased duration of clinical signs before presentation (ρ = -0.548; P = .035) and an increased length of hospitalization (ρ = 0.645; P = .009). Bacterial culture was submitted for all dogs, and polymicrobial infections were common (8/19). Broad-spectrum empirical antimicrobials were commonly prescribed. Change in antimicrobial treatment based on culture was uncommon (3/19). All dogs survived to hospital discharge; 18 dogs with long-term follow-up had complete resolution of clinical signs., Clinical Relevance: CT was useful to plan for surgery, and surgical treatment resulted in resolution of clinical signs in all dogs with long-term follow-up available. Empirical antimicrobial treatment, such as amoxicillin-clavulanic acid or ampicillin-sulbactam, should be considered.

Background: Canine intrarenal cystic lesions (ICLs) are infrequently reported in the veterinary literature. Several treatment options have been described including cyst fenestration (partial nephrectomy/deroofing) +/- omentalization, sclerotherapy using alcohol as a sclerosing agent, percutaneous cyst drainage (PCD), and ureteronephrectomy. Information regarding presenting clinical signs, physical examination findings, histologic diagnosis and outcomes of dogs with ICLs treated by different methods is limited. Medical records of 11 institutions were retrospectively reviewed to identify dogs that underwent PCD, sclerotherapy, surgical deroofing +/- omentalization, or ureteronephrectomy for management of ICLs from 2004 to 2021. Six weeks postoperative/post-procedural follow-up was required. Cases suspected to represent malignancy on preoperative imaging were excluded. The study objective was to provide information regarding perioperative characteristics, complications, and outcomes of dogs undergoing treatment of ICLs., Results: Eighteen dogs were included, with 24 ICLs treated. Ten had bilateral. There were 15 males and 3 females, with crossbreeds predominating. PCD, sclerotherapy, deroofing and ureteronephrectomy were performed in 5 (5 ICLs treated), 7 (11 ICLs), 6 (6), and 7 (7) dogs, respectively, with 5 dogs undergoing > 1 treatment. Seven dogs experienced 8 complications, with requirement for additional intervention commonest. PCD, sclerotherapy and deroofing resulted in ICL resolution in 0/5, 3/11 and 3/6 treated ICLs, respectively. Histopathology identified renal cysts (RCs) in 7/13 dogs with histopathology available and neoplasia in 6/13 (4 malignant, 2 benign). Of 5 dogs diagnosed histopathologically with neoplasia, cytology of cystic fluid failed to identify neoplastic cells. Among 7 dogs with histologically confirmed RCs, 4 had concurrent ICLs in ipsilateral/contralateral kidney, compared with 2/6 dogs with histologically confirmed neoplasia., Conclusions: Benign and neoplastic ICLs were approximately equally common and cystic fluid cytology failed to differentiate the 2. Among renal-sparing treatments, deroofing most commonly resulted in ICL resolution. Presence of concurrent ICLs in ipsilateral/contralateral kidney does not appear reliable in differentiating benign from malignant ICLs., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Objective: To determine the incidence of and risk factors for surgical site infection (SSI) following canine thoracic and pelvic limb amputations., Study Design: Retrospective, multicenter study., Animals: Dogs (n = 248)., Methods: Medical records were reviewed for preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables including indication for amputation, amputation type, method of muscle transection, duration of surgery and anesthesia, and wound classification. Follow up was ≥30 days or until SSI development. Logistic regression and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare SSI incidence to variables of interest., Results: The incidence of SSI was 12.5% for all procedures and 10.9% for clean procedures. Factors increasing odds of SSI were muscle transection with a bipolar vessel sealing device (P = .023 for all procedures, P = .025 for clean procedures), procedure classified as other than clean (P = .003), and indication for amputation of bacterial infection (P = .041) or traumatic injury (P = .003) compared to neoplasia., Conclusion: Use of bipolar vessel sealing devices for muscle transection increased the odds of developing an SSI whereas use of electrosurgery and/or sharp transection did not. Dogs with surgical sites that were other than clean, or with bacterial infection and/or traumatic injury were also at increased odds of SSI., Clinical Significance: Use of electrosurgery or sharp transection for muscle transection should be considered rather than use of bipolar vessel sealing devices to decrease odds of SSI in dogs undergoing limb amputation. Further studies across a variety of procedures are needed to validate these findings given the increasing popularity of these devices in veterinary medicine., (© 2022 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Advances regarding surgical treatment of hepatobiliary diseases over the past 5 years have resulted in improved outcomes and decreased mortality in veterinary patients. Options for minimally invasive treatment of intrahepatic portosystemic shunts and gallbladder disease have led to decreased morbidity with similar outcomes to open procedures. For extrahepatic portosystemic shunts, studies evaluating long-term outcome between surgical attenuation and medical management, as well as between options for surgical attenuation, are being used to direct evidence-based treatment of this congenital anomaly. In addition, evaluation of timing in surgical intervention for gallbladder mucoceles has led to an opportunity for decreased mortality rates after cholecystectomy., Competing Interests: Disclosure The author has nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To determine the outcome in dogs diagnosed with congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (EHPSS) at ≥ 5 years of age treated with medical management only (M) or with surgical attenuation (S). The hypothesis was that dogs undergoing surgical attenuation would have a longer survival time than dogs undergoing medical management only., Animals: 351 dogs definitively diagnosed with EHPSS at ≥ 5 years of age., Procedures: Medical records from 2009 to 2019 at 16 veterinary teaching hospitals were evaluated. Data collected included signalment, clinical signs at diagnosis, clinicopathologic data, surgical and medical treatments, shunt morphology, clinical signs and medical treatments at 6 to 12 months after diagnosis, and survival time., Results: 351 dogs (M, 119 [33.9%]; S, 232 [66.1%]) were included in the study. Survival time was longer with surgery than medical management (hazard ratio, 4.2; M, 3.4 years; S, 10.9 years). Continued clinical signs at 6 to 12 months after diagnosis were more common with medical management (M, 40% [33/88]; S, 14% [21/155]). Continued medical treatments at 6 to 12 months after diagnosis were more common in the medical management group (M, 78% [69/88]; S, 34% [53/155]). Perioperative mortality rate was 7.3%., Clinical Relevance: Dogs diagnosed at ≥ 5 years of age with EHPSS have significantly better survival times and fewer clinical signs with surgical attenuation, compared with medical management. Older dogs have similar surgical mortality rates to dogs of all ages after surgical EHPSS attenuation.

Objective: To retrospectively compare the incidence of incisional complications in dogs undergoing surgery for mast cell tumors (MCTs) and soft tissue sarcomas (STSs)., Animals: 218 dogs., Procedures: Dogs that underwent excision of ≥ 1 MCT, STS, or both from January 2014 to July 2019 and had ≥ 30 days postoperative follow-up were included. Signalment; anesthesia and surgery time; administration of propofol; tumor type, grade, location, and size; intended surgical margins; histologic margins; perioperative radiation, chemotherapy, and corticosteroid and antihistamine (MCT group) treatments; and incisional complications (classified as major or minor) were recorded. Follow-up information was obtained from owners or primary care veterinarians, if needed. Incidence and severity of incisional complications were compared between the MCT and STS groups. Potential risk factors were assessed for associations with incisional complications by simple and multiple logistic regression analysis., Results: The 218 dogs underwent surgery for 293 tumors (209 MCTs and 84 STSs). Complication rates did not differ between MCT (28/209 [13%]) and STS (12/84 [14%]) groups. For the MCT group, incomplete margins (vs complete or narrow), increasing Patnaik tumor grade, and postoperative chemotherapy (yes vs no) were associated with increased odds of incisional complications on simple regression. On multiple logistic regression, postoperative chemotherapy was associated with increased odds of incisional complications for the MCT group and both groups combined., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: On the basis of the results, we suggest that chemotherapy be used with caution ≤ 30 days after surgery for dogs with MCTs. Corticosteroid administration was not associated with incisional complications for the MCT group in this study.

Excellent outcomes have been reported following thyroidectomy for thyroid carcinoma in dogs, but outcomes for thyroid carcinomas with gross vascular invasion are poorly described. This study describes the clinical outcomes and complications in dogs with thyroid carcinomas with gross vascular invasion undergoing thyroidectomy. Medical records of dogs that underwent thyroidectomy between January 1st 2010 and December 31st 2019 were reviewed at 10 hospitals. Signalment, diagnostic data, primary and adjuvant treatments performed, and outcome were abstracted. Survival was calculated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with disease-specific survival. Seventy-three dogs were included, of which 58 underwent unilateral thyroidectomy and 15 underwent bilateral thyroidectomy. Complications were reported in five dogs (three major, two minor; 6.8%) intraoperatively and 12 dogs (two major leading to death, 10 minor; 16.4%) postoperatively. Seven (9.6%) dogs developed locoregional recurrence at a median of 238 days postoperatively (range: 15-730 days). Distant metastasis was suspected or confirmed in nine dogs (12.3%) at a median of 375 days postoperatively (range: 50-890 days). Twenty-seven dogs (37%) received adjuvant therapy (chemotherapy: n = 21; radiotherapy: n = 6). Thirty-nine dogs were euthanized or died, with 20 deaths related to disease (n = 10) or of unknown cause (n = 10), 19 due to unrelated causes, and nine lost to follow-up. Median overall and disease-specific survival were 621 days and not reached respectively. One-year disease-specific survival rate was 82.5%. No variables were associated with disease-specific survival in our dataset. Surgery may be considered for loco-regional therapy in dogs with thyroid carcinoma with gross vascular invasion., (© 2021 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objective: To evaluate outcomes of dogs with parathyroid carcinoma (PTC) treated by surgical excision and to describe the incidence of postoperative hypocalcemia, degree of hypocalcemia, duration of hospitalization, duration of calcium supplementation, and survival time., Animals: 100 client-owned dogs with PTC admitted to academic, referral veterinary institutions., Procedures: In a retrospective multi-institutional study, medical records of dogs undergoing surgical excision of PTC between 2010 to 2019 were reviewed. Signalment, relevant medical history, clinical signs, clinicopathologic testing, imaging, surgical findings, intraoperative complications, histologic examination, and survival time were recorded., Results: 100 dogs with PTC were included, and 96 dogs had clinical or incidental hypercalcemia. Common clinical signs included polyuria (44%), polydipsia (43%), hind limb paresis (22%), lethargy (21%), and hyporexia (20%). Cervical ultrasonography detected a parathyroid nodule in 91 of 91 dogs, with a single nodule in 70.3% (64/91), 2 nodules in 25.3% (23/91), and ≥ 3 nodules in 4 (4/91)% of dogs. Hypercalcemia resolved in 89 of 96 dogs within 7 days after surgery. Thirty-four percent of dogs developed hypocalcemia, on the basis of individual analyzer ranges, within 1 week after surgery. One dog had metastatic PTC to the prescapular lymph node, and 3 dogs were euthanized for refractory postoperative hypocalcemia. Estimated 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates were 84%, 65%, and 51% respectively, with a median survival time of 2 years., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Excision of PTC results in resolution of hypercalcemia and excellent long-term tumor control. Surgical excision of PTC is recommended because of resolution of hypercalcemia and a good long-term prognosis. Future prospective studies and long-term follow-up are needed to further assess primary tumor recurrence, metastasis, and incidence of postoperative hypocalcemia.

A possible association between the development of nontraumatic, acquired inguinal hernias (NAIH) and perineal hernias (PH) has been postulated in adult dogs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the frequency of concurrent diagnosis of PH in dogs presented with NAIH and determine potential risk factors for concurrent PH and NAIH. Medical records of adult male dogs presented for NAIH to 4 hospitals between 2007 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Twenty-one dogs with NAIH were included, 8 of which had concurrent PH. There were no significant differences between dogs with and without PH; however, among dogs with both conditions, intact dogs (8.1 ± 1.4 years) were younger than neutered dogs (11.7 ± 1.0 years; P = 0.007). Thirty-eight percent of male dogs presenting for NAIH had concurrent PH, indicating that these conditions commonly occur together. Dogs presenting for NAIH should be carefully evaluated for concurrent PH before surgical intervention., (Copyright and/or publishing rights held by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.)

Canine melanomas and mast cell tumours (MCTs) frequently metastasize to lymph nodes, worsening prognosis compared with dogs without metastasis. Sentinel lymph node (SLN) evaluation is more specific than evaluation of the lymph node closest to the tumour, which may not be the draining lymph node. Computed tomography lymphangiography (CTL) allows for SLN identification and one study of canine mammary tumours found that CTL was able to assist in determination of the metastatic status of inguinal SLNs prior to extirpation and histopathology. The objective of the present study was to evaluate CTL for use in determining metastasis to the SLN in dogs with a pre-operative diagnosis of melanoma or MCT in various locations by correlating CTL findings with histopathology. The hypothesis was that CTL would not be able to determine the metastatic status of lymph nodes, based on author experience. Dogs were prospectively enrolled and underwent CTL and subsequent SLN extirpation. Histopathology results for the primary tumour, SLN, and additional extirpated lymph nodes were recorded. Fifteen dogs were enrolled and 21 SLN were evaluated. The SLN enhancement pattern (heterogeneous, homogenous or peripheral) was not associated with metastasis, nor was the attenuation value at 1 minute, 5 minutes, or the change in attenuation value. No correlation was found between CTL findings and metastatic status of SLNs. Based on these results, CTL alone cannot be used to diagnose SLN metastasis. Extirpation of the SLN with histopathology is recommended to diagnose lymph node metastasis in dogs with melanoma and MCT., (© 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Progressive disease is common following anal sacculectomy for apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma (AGASACA); additional therapy may prolong survival. Adherence to medical recommendations influences therapeutic success in humans. The purpose of this study was to assess the adherence to follow-up recommendations in dogs with AGASACA. Medical records of patients that underwent anal sacculectomy for AGASACA, with or without iliosacral lymphadenectomy, between July 2015 and July 2018, were reviewed at eight referral institutions to assess post-operative recommendations and owner adherence to recommendations. One hundred and seventy-four dogs were included, of which 162 underwent unilateral anal sacculectomy, 12 underwent bilateral anal sacculectomy and 39 underwent concurrent iliosacral lymphadenectomy. Seventy-six owners (44%) received recommendations for staging at the time of discharge, histopathology results or at the first follow-up visit. One hundred and forty owners (80%) received recommendations for treatment following the initial surgery. Fifty of seventy-six (66%) owners pursued at least one staging recommendation and 69 of 140 (49%) owners pursued some kind of adjuvant treatment recommendation. Overall, 16 of 76 (21%) were adherent to staging recommendations with 20 adherent for the first year following surgery (26%). Forty-seven of 140 (34%) were adherent to treatment recommendations with 54 (39%) adherent for the first year. Owners that were adherent to restaging recommendations at 1 year following surgery were significantly more likely to pursue treatment for progressive disease (P = .014). Further work is required to assess owner motivation and evaluate strategies to improve adherence, given the potential impact on patient treatment., (© 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objective: To describe the technique, outcome, and owner satisfaction associated with dorsal offset rhinoplasty (DOR) to treat stenotic nares in brachycephalic dogs., Study Design: Retrospective case series., Animals: Thirty-four client-owned dogs., Methods: Medical records of dogs treated with DOR at a veterinary teaching hospital over a 6-year period were identified. Dorsal offset rhinoplasty was defined as removal of a dorsal wedge of nasal planum from each naris with apposition of the rostral abaxial tissue to the caudal axial tissue, resulting in translocation of the alar cartilage in both median and dorsal planes. Immediate and postoperative complications were recorded. Owners were asked to report any complications with healing of the nares and to score their satisfaction with the appearance of the nares., Results: Thirty-four dogs met the inclusion criteria. Twenty-nine (85%) dogs were examined a median of 402.5 days (range, 23-2042) postoperatively, with no major complications related to the rhinoplasty recorded. Eighteen owners responded a median of 701 days (range, 37-1622) postoperatively. One owner reported that self-trauma led to collapse of one naris. One owner reported collapse of both nares within 4 years; timing and cause were unknown. Sixteen of 17 responding owners reported that they were very satisfied with the outcome of the rhinoplasty. The owner of the dog with the collapsed naris was very unsatisfied. One owner did not provide a satisfaction score., Conclusion: Owners were generally highly satisfied with DOR, and complications were uncommon., Clinical Significance: This report describes an alternate technique to treat stenotic nares., (© 2020 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To describe the clinical features and outcome of functional thyroid tumours in dogs., Materials and Methods: Retrospective multi-institutional study of 70 dogs diagnosed with thyroid mass and concurrent hyperthyroidism. Clinical data regarding presentation, treatment, outcome and functional thyroid status were retrieved., Results: Overall median survival of dogs with functional thyroid tumours was 35.1 months and 1- and 3-year survival rates were 83 and 49%, respectively. Median survival time was 72.6 months for dogs treated with surgical excision and 15.7 months for dogs that did not receive surgery. Of the 50 dogs treated by surgery and for which thyroid status was known following treatment, 64% developed hypothyroidism after surgery. Histopathologically confirmed metastasis was identified in 3% of dogs., Clinical Significance: Dogs with functional thyroid tumours may survive a long time after surgical excision, although post-operative hypothyroidism is common., (© 2020 British Small Animal Veterinary Association.)

Case Description: A 4-year-old spayed female French Bulldog was referred for treatment of a suspected right-sided nasal angiofibroma associated with a 4-month history of unilateral nasal discharge and stertor., Clinical Findings: The dog appeared healthy other than right-sided mucoid debris and decreased airflow through the right naris. The dog was anesthetized, and a large intranasal mass was observed obstructing the right nasal passage and abutting the nasal septum., Treatment and Outcome: A lateral rhinotomy was performed, and rigid endoscopes (0° and 30°) were used to examine the right nasal cavity. The mass filled the anterior aspect of the nasal cavity and involved a portion of the nasal turbinates with some erosion. A coblation unit was used to ablate tumor tissue laterally to remove the tumor in piecemeal fashion. Recovery was routine with only minor epistaxis after surgery, and the dog was discharged the next day. Eight months after surgery, follow-up CT revealed right-sided nasal turbinate and conchal atrophy consistent with prior mass ablation. No macroscopic recurrence was detected, and the owners reported only rare, clear rhinorrhea., Clinical Relevance: Findings suggested that coblation may be an alternative to radiation therapy for vascular tumors with minimal invasion and low metastatic potential.

Objective: To determine long-term outcomes and factors associated with those outcomes in dogs with gastroesophageal intussusception (GEI)., Animals: 36 dogs with GEI evaluated at 16 veterinary hospitals from January 2000 through January 2018., Procedures: Medical records of included dogs were reviewed to collect information regarding signalment, clinical signs, physical examination findings, blood work and diagnostic imaging results, surgical findings, and outcome. Factors were evaluated for associations with various outcomes., Results: Median age of dogs with GEI was 13.2 months, and males (72% [26/36]) and German Shepherd Dogs (33% [12/36]) were most common. Vomiting (67% [24/36]) and regurgitation (33% [12/36]) were the most common clinical signs. Ten of 36 (28%) dogs were euthanized without treatment, and 26 (72%) underwent treatment (25 surgically and 1 endoscopically). Twenty-three of the 26 (88%) treated dogs survived to discharge; median survival time was 995 days. At last follow-up, 15 of the 23 (65%) surviving dogs remained alive and 8 (35%) had died for reasons related to persistent regurgitation (n = 6) or reasons unrelated to GEI (2). Of the 10 dogs for which owners were contacted, 7 had persistent regurgitation, the severity of which was reduced through managed feedings. Dogs with acute (≤ 7 days) clinical signs or a previous diagnosis of megaesophagus were more likely to have persistent regurgitation than were dogs without these factors., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Treatment should be considered for dogs with GEI given the high rate of survival to discharge and median survival time. Although persistent regurgitation was common after treatment, a satisfactory outcome was possible with medical management, including managed feedings and medications.

Objective: To evaluate long-term outcomes and identify factors associated with death or the need for revision surgery in dogs with permanent tracheostomies (PTs)., Design: Retrospective cohort study., Animals: 69 client-owned dogs that received a PT between January 2002 and June 2016 at 1 of 4 veterinary teaching hospitals., Procedures: Medical records were reviewed, and data extracted included signalment, history, clinical signs, radiographic and laryngeal examination findings, presence of esophageal abnormalities, date and reason for receiving a PT, postoperative complications, cause of death, and survival time. Dogs surviving < 2 weeks after receiving a PT were excluded., Results: Major complications occurred in 42 of 69 (61%) dogs, with aspiration pneumonia (13 [19%]), skinfold occlusion (13 [19%]), and stoma stenosis (12 [17%]) being most common. Revision surgery was performed in 24 of 69 (35%) dogs, most commonly because of stoma stenosis or skinfold occlusion (9/24 [38%] each). Brachycephalic dogs were more likely (OR, 3.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.2 to 10.2) to require revision surgery than were nonbrachycephalic dogs. The overall median survival time was 1,825 days, and dogs that received corticosteroids before receiving a PT, had tracheal collapse, or were older had shorter survival times., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Results of the present study indicated that creation of a PT was a viable treatment option for obstructive upper airway diseases in dogs and that long-term survival after receiving a PT was possible; however, a PT may not reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia in dogs.

Objective: To report outcomes and risk factors for mortality in dogs that underwent surgical management of lung lobe torsion., Study Design: Retrospective case series from 5 veterinary teaching hospitals (2005-2017)., Animals: Fifty dogs with 52 instances of lung lobe torsion., Methods: Data collected from medical records included signalment, clinical findings, results of clinicopathologic testing and diagnostic imaging, surgical treatment, lung lobe affected, intraoperative and postoperative complications, histopathologic and microbiologic findings, and outcome. Follow-up was obtained from medical records and telephone contact with primary care veterinarians., Results: Fifty-two instances of lung lobe torsion were identified in 50 dogs, with a median follow-up of 453 days (range, 0-3075). Forty-six (92%) dogs survived to discharge. Dogs with concurrent torsion of the right cranial and middle lung lobes were less likely to survive (2/4) than those with torsion of the left cranial lung lobe (22/22). No other risk factors for mortality prior to hospital discharge were identified. Overall median survival time after hospital discharge was 1369 days. Four dogs had >1 episode of lung lobe torsion., Conclusion: The percentage of dogs surviving to discharge after surgical treatment of lung lobe torsion was higher than previously reported. The short- and long-term prognosis was excellent with surgical treatment of lung lobe torsion., Clinical Significance: Surgery should be recommended when lung lobe torsion is suspected because of the high survival to discharge rate and excellent long-term prognosis., (© 2018 The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

The purpose of this study was to evaluate owner perception of outcome following permanent tracheostomy (PT) in dogs. Medical records of dogs who received PT from 2002 to 2016 were reviewed. A questionnaire was given to owners verbally or by e-mail to ascertain their perception of their dog's outcome after PT. Median time to questionnaire administration from PT surgery was 608 days (64-3,708). Owner satisfaction after PT was high (89.7%), with the majority stating they would have the procedure performed again (79.5%). Owners reported an improvement in their dog's personality (30.8%) and increased activity (41%). Median survival time was 1,825 days (64-2,663), with 6 of 39 dogs (15.4%) alive at study end. Of the 33 dogs who died, 11 (33.3%) died from underlying respiratory conditions suspected to be related to the PT. The overall complication rate was 82.1%, with mucus secretion being the most common. Revision surgery was required in 30.8% of dogs (most commonly due to skin occlusion), and aspiration pneumonia occurred in 17.9% of dogs. Overall, owner satisfaction after PT in dogs is high despite intensive postoperative management, and long survival times can be achieved.

Objective: To determine the ability of a polyacrylic acid-silicone radiolucent self-retaining gradual occlusion device (PAS-OD) to attenuate congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (EHPSS) in dogs., Study Design: Prospective clinical trial., Animals: Six client-owned dogs with single, congenital EHPSS., Methods: Serum bile acids (SBA), abdominal ultrasonography, and computed tomographic angiography (CTA) were performed preoperatively and at 4 and 8 weeks postoperatively. Each dog was treated for EHPSS by placement of a PAS-OD., Results: PAS-OD were placed without complication an average of 4.3 seconds (range, 3-7) after isolation of the shunt. Median surgical time was 38.5 minutes (range, 28-84) including concurrent procedures. All dogs recovered from surgery without complications. SBA were normal in 5 of 6 dogs at 4 and 8 weeks after surgery. The shunt was completely attenuated in 2 of 6 dogs at 4 weeks and in 4 of 6 dogs at 8 weeks, without evidence of acquired shunt formation in any dog. The size and velocity of the portal vasculature were improved in 5 of 6 dogs according to 8-week postoperative CTA and ultrasonography results, respectively. The remaining dog had a persistently decreased portal vasculature size but a normal velocity according to 8-week postoperative CTA and ultrasound results, respectively., Conclusion: The PAS-OD led to complete attenuation in 4 of 6 dogs and partial attenuation with mild residual flow of 2 EHPSS over an 8-week period in dogs., Clinical Significance: The PAS-OD is a new option for gradual occlusion of congenital EHPSS over 8 weeks., (© 2018 The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Medical records of 17 client-owned dogs diagnosed with os clitoris on physical examination or diagnostic imaging were reviewed to describe the clinical signs and surgical management of this condition. All dogs were phenotypically female. The most common presenting complaints included an enlarged clitoris ( n = 10), urinary tract infection ( n = 5), and licking of the vulva ( n = 3). Other frequently reported clinical signs included vaginal discharge and/or lower urinary tract signs such as pollakiuria. Ten dogs were surgically managed with os clitorectomy. Concurrent related procedures included gonadohysterectomy ( n = 7), and episioplasty ( n = 3). Clitorectomy in the surgically managed dogs created a more normal female anatomy and resolved clinical signs associated with the exposed clitoris.

Postoperative seizures occur in 5-12% of dogs following surgical attenuation of congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (CEPSS) and are often refractory to treatment. Because pugs are predisposed to necrotizing meningoencephalitis, they may be at higher risk of developing neurologic complications after CEPSS attenuation. We hypothesized that pugs have a higher prevalence of postoperative neurologic complications and that pugs who died due to neurologic complications would have evidence of encephalitis at necropsy. Records were searched for pugs that had undergone surgical correction of a single extrahepatic CEPSS. Fourteen pugs met the inclusion criteria and were compared with a control group of 30 dogs of varying breeds who also underwent surgical attenuation for a single CEPSS. Four of 14 pugs (28.6%) died or were euthanized within 1 mo after surgery for neurologic complications, compared with only 1 of 30 dogs in the control group (P < .029). No evidence of necrotizing meningoencephalitis was seen on necropsy. Pugs may be at an increased risk of developing fatal neurologic complications following surgical attenuation for CEPSS. Further studies are indicated to investigate reasons for this increased risk, as well as to determine any factors that may indicate which pugs are at higher risk.

Objective: To develop a device intended for gradual venous occlusion over 4 to 6 weeks., Sample: Silicone tubing filled with various inorganic salt and polyacrylic acid (PAA) formulations and mounted within a polypropylene or polyether ether ketone (PEEK) outer ring., Procedures: 15 polypropylene prototype rings were initially filled with 1 of 5 formulations and placed in PBSS. In a second test, 10 polypropylene and 7 PEEK prototype rings were filled with 1 formulation and placed in PBSS. In a third test, 2 formulations were loaded into 6 PEEK rings each, placed in physiologic solution, and incubated. In all tests, ring luminal diameter, outer diameter, and luminal area were measured over 6 weeks., Results: In the first test, 2 formulations had the greatest changes in luminal area and diameter, and 1 of those had a greater linear swell rate than the other had. In the second test, 6 of 7 PEEK rings and 6 of 10 polypropylene rings closed to a luminal diamater < 1 mm within 6 weeks. Polypropylene rings had a greater increase in outer diameter than did PEEK rings between 4.5 and 6 weeks. In the third test, 11 of 12 PEEK rings gradually closed to a luminal diameter < 1 mm within 6 weeks., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: A PAA and inorganic salt formulation in a prototype silicone and polymer ring resulted in gradual occlusion over 4 to 6 weeks in vitro. Prototype PEEK rings provided more reliable closure than did polypropylene rings.

Objective: To describe a single-incision, laparoscopic-assisted technique for ovariohysterectomy and its application for treatment of mucometra and pyometra in dogs., Study Design: Prospective case series., Animals: Seven dogs., Methods: Dogs were included if they had an open or closed pyometra or mucometra and an approximate uterine body diameter of less than 5 cm based on ultrasound or abdominal radiographs. Each dog underwent a laparoscopic-assisted ovariohysterectomy through a single-incision laparoscopic port., Results: The procedure was performed in 6 dogs with pyometra and 1 dog with mucometra. Conversion to an open procedure was necessary in 1 dog with uterine rupture. A 2nd port was necessary in 1 dog to exteriorize the uterine body. Median uterine body diameter was 2.2 cm (range 2-3.9). The median surgical time was 85 minutes (range 40-110). Six of 7 dogs were released from the hospital at 1 day postoperative. Follow up ranged from 7 to 421 days and no complications were reported., Conclusion: A single-incision, laparoscopic-assisted technique for pyometra was feasible in dogs, given restricted case selection and experience with single-incision laparoscopy., (© Copyright 2015 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)