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Introduction: Laparoscopic liver resections (LLR) constitute an area of surgery that has been kept away from residents in their hands-on training. The aim of our study is to assess the feasibility and the value of a didactic “step-by-step” program for LLR performed by residents using the swine training model Methods: From May 2018 to November 2019, three hands-on workshops were held. The protocol involved the performance of cholecystectomy, liver mobilization, minor and major hepatectomies. The participants' performance results in terms of operative time, blood loss, conversion, trainers’ intervention and intraoperative mortality, were recorded. The first workshop was comprised of 30 residents who previously participated in laparoscopic surgery workshops. In the second workshop, after six residents dropped out due to residency completion, the findings for the remaining 24 residents were compared to those for 24 junior attending surgeons who didn't follow the protocol and had not performed LLR previously, and to another 24 residents in a third workshop, who had not taken the training program before but followed the protocol Results: All residents fully completed the surgical procedures. Trained residents achieved better operative times and less blood loss compared to senior surgeons (p

This case report describes the surgical management of a severe congenital deformity in a Shetland pony. A two-week-old foal was presented with the right hind limb showing a 90-degree torsion of the tarsal region towards the medial side and the metatarsophalangeal joint forced in a 90-degree extension behind the right tarsus. As assessed through radiography, the tibial malleoli and the trochlea of the talus were poorly developed, the flexor tendons inserted topographically correctly on the phalanges but due to articular torsion, the tenaculum of long and lateral digital extensor tendons were projected laterally and the common digital extensor tendon on the medioplantar aspect. At the age of one month, a corrective ostectomy of the tibial malleoli, trochlear ridge, and talus was performed to reposition the adjacent bones. The tarsal bones were repositioned through an arthrotomy and subsequently the tarsal region fused by means of two cortex screws inserted in a lag fashion. Complete correction of the torsion was achieved through metatarsal osteotomy. A 20-hole 3.5-mm reconstruction plate was used for stabilization of the tibia and metatarsus, resulting in a pantarsal arthrodesis. Partial tibia shortening was performed to improve angulation of the tarsal region. At nine months after surgery, the pony was keeping the right limb hoof sole on the ground.

The current experimental study was conducted in sheep, which present bone anisotropy and a predisposition to periodontal disease, with alveolar bone resorption, similar to that found in humans. In this study, alveolar bone augmentation was performed using a lyophilized bovine bone xenograft enriched with type 1 atelocollagen, which was combined with autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF) as a membrane. The results were radiologically and histologically evaluated at six weeks postoperatively. At that time, the transformation of the composite biomaterial was clearly visible, suggesting that the regeneration process started from the periphery of the augmentation mass, which was progressively transformed from a granular eosinophilic material into an undifferentiated hypercellular one, then into fibroblastic, cartilaginous tissue, and finally into new bone and desmodontal-like tissue. This process was most probably induced by all the compounds used, the growth factors found in autologous blood derivatives, including bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), as well as type 1 atelocollagen from the graft composition, especially in combination. The composite biomaterial at six weeks postoperatively provided excellent results regarding alveolar bone regeneration, and without any risk, as opposed to that found in overdose of recombinant growth factors.

Summary Background Indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) is slowly replacing conventional methods of evaluating perfusion during flap surgery. Microcirculatory changes during flap elevation create a marked state of hypoperfusion intraoperatively leading to ICGA underestimation of tissue viability and consequent resection of viable tissue. We propose a novel method of flap warming to induce maximum vasodilation before performing ICGA to increase accuracy in assessing perfusion. Methods Submental flaps harvested on a single perforator were created in 8 pigs. ICG angiography was performed in the intraoperative phase (ICGA-C), after inducing maximum vasodilatation by warming the flap at 42 °C (ICGA-W) and at 24H postoperative (ICGA-24). By setting a fluorescence threshold of 33% as indicative of necrosis, the flap surface deemed viable by ICGA was measured for ICGAC, ICGAW and ICGA24. The results were then compared to the actual flap survival observed clinically at 7 days. Results The mean of ICG-C predicted flap survival (FS-C = 49.17%) is 12.97% lower than the mean of actual flap survival on postoperative day 7 (FS = 62.14%). The mean difference between ICG-W and ICG-24 predicted flap survival (FS-W and FS-24) and actual flap survival in the postoperative day 7 (FS) is lower, 3.13% and 2.15%, respectively. Average perfusion recovery over 24 h was 10.83% (FS-24–FS-C). Conclusions Conventional intraoperative ICGA underestimated perfusion in all cases. Warming the flap intraoperatively and achieving maximum vasodilation mitigates the effects of vasoconstriction and mimics the microcirculatory environment encountered at 24 h. Performing angiography after induced vasodilation improves ICGA assessment of flap perfusion.

Background Clinical outcome after cutaneous reconstruction using genicular artery flaps has not been reported. Major cutaneous defects of the pelvic limb between the stifle and hock are frequent in dogs and closure is difficult due to lack of available skin from immediately adjacent areas. Case presentation Here we report the first two clinical cases successfully managed by genicular axial pattern flap closure. A 2-year-old 38 kg (83.77-lb) intact male Labrador Retriever and a 14-year-old 42 kg (92.59-lb) spayed mixed breed female dog were admitted for the management of large skin defects in the lateral tibiotarsal joint. One defect was the result of a fibrosarcoma removal in the Labrador dog and the other defect was a chronic large wound caused by a car accident in the mixed breed female dog. Both defects were reconstructed by using genicular flaps. The bed of the wound in mixed breed dog was surgically debrided and underwent open wound management until a proper granulation tissue bed was formed before reconstruction. The skin defect in the Labrador dog was covered immediately after tumor removal. After surgery both dogs were bearing weight on the limbs normally. Small area of dehiscence occurred in both dogs 2 weeks after surgery. At follow-up examination one month after surgery, the surgical wound of the Labrador retriever still had a small area of dehiscence. Two months after surgery, the wound of the mixed breed dog was completely healed, covered with hair and no lameness was observed. Conclusion Findings suggested that genicular axial pattern flap is a good option for reconstruction of large cutaneous defects of the lateral aspects of the tibia in dogs.

Biomaterials based on bioactive glass with gold nanoparticle composites have many applications in tissue engineering due to their tissue regeneration and angiogenesis capacities. The objectives of the study were to develop new composites using bioactive glass with gold nanospheres (BGAuSP) and gold nanocages (BGAuIND), individually introduced in alginate-pullulan (Alg-Pll) polymer, to evaluate their biocompatibility potential, and to compare the obtained results with those achieved when β-tricalcium phosphate-hydroxyapatite (βTCP/HA) replaced the BG. The novel composites underwent structural and morphological characterization followed by in vitro viability testing on fibroblast and osteoblast cell lines. Additionally, the biomaterials were subcutaneously implanted in Sprague Dawley rats, for in vivo biocompatibility assessment during 3 separate time frames (14, 30 and 60 days). The biological effects were evaluated by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. The physical characterization revealed the cross-linking between polymers and glasses/ceramics and demonstrated a suitable thermal stability for sterilization processes. The in vitro assays demonstrated adequate form, pore size of composites ranging from few micrometers up to 100 μm, while the self-assembled apatite layer formed after simulated body fluid immersion confirmed the composites' bioactivity. Viability assays have highlighted optimal cellular proliferation and in vitro biocompatibility for all tested composites. Furthermore, based on the in vivo subcutaneous analyses the polymer composites with BGAuNP have shown excellent biocompatibility at 14, 30 and 60 days, exhibiting marked angiogenesis while, tissue proliferation was confirmed by high number of Vimentin positive cells, in comparison with the polymer composite that contains βTCP/HA, which induced an inflammatory response represented by a foreign body reaction. The obtained results suggest promising, innovative, and biocompatible composites with bioactive properties for future soft tissue and bone engineering endeavours.

To investigate the effects of PEG-coated gold nanoparticles on ablation zone volumes following in vivo radiofrequency ablation of porcine liver. This prospective study was performed following institutional animal care and committee approval was used. Radiofrequency ablations were performed in the livers of ten Sus scrofa domesticus swines. During each ablation, 10 mL (mL) of Peg-coated gold nanoparticles at two different concentrations (0.5 mg/mL and 0.01 mg/mL) were injected through the electrode channel into the target zone. For the control group, 10 mL of physiological saline was used. Five to ten minutes after each ablation, contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) was performed to evaluate the volume of the coagulation zone. On day five we performed another CEUS and the animals were sacrificed. Treated tissues were explanted for quantification of the ablation zones’ volumes. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was also performed for histologic analysis. A total of 30 ablations were performed in the livers. The mean coagulation zone volume as measured by CEUS on day 5 after RFA was: 21.69 ± 3.39 cm3, 19.22 ± 5.77 cm3, and 8.80 ± 3.33 cm3 for N1, N2 and PS respectively. The coagulation zone volume after N1 and N2 treatments was significantly higher compared to PS treatment (p

To evaluate the benefits of systematical use of ex vivo liver model and CT imaging in the planning process for swine laparoscopic liver resections done by residents during a dedicated training program.Thirty general surgery residents, part of a dedicated and continuous training program, were equally divided into two groups: first one which performed laparoscopic liver resections without planning stage and the second one which systematically used an interactive tutorial for establishing the strategy for the resection followed by performing open liver dissection and the same resection on an ex vivo swine model. Afterwards, laparoscopic procedures were performed on twenty anesthetized domestic pigs.All teams successfully completed the procedure, with no conversions to open approach and without trainers' intervention. The second group was faster than the first group on both minor and major resections (p=0.0001). The blood loss was significantly lower on the second group (p=0.005).The residents surpassed our expectations regarding the operation time, blood loss and conversions, validating our training program. The step-by-step program was developed using the IDEAL paradigm, being now at the end of the 2b phase (exploration), when the residents realize the benefits of this model. The reduction in blood loss and loss of functional parenchyma demonstrates the utility of a warming-up phase.The "warming up" by adding the imagistic and anatomical data to the core protocol offer more clarity before laparoscopic liver resections and makes an upgrade for our "step by step" protocol.Experimental model, Laparoscopic liver resections, Residents.Questo studio è finalizzato a valutare i benefici dell’uso sistematico del modello epatico ex vivo e della tomografia computerizzata per la programmazione delle resezioni laparoscopiche di fegato nel suino eseguite dagli specializzandi programma dedicato alla formazione. Trenta specializzandi in chirurgia generale, facenti parte di un programma di formazione sono stati divisi in due gruppi: il primo che ha eseguito resezioni laparoscopiche del fegato senza fase di pianificazione e il secondo che ha sistematicamente utilizzato un tutorial interattivo per stabilire la strategia per la resezione da eseguire, seguito dalla dissezione epatica da banco, e poi la stessa resezione su un modello suino ex vivo. Successivamente sono state eseguite procedure laparoscopiche su venti suini domestici anestetizzati. Tutte le squadre hanno completato con successo la procedura, senza dover convertire a laparotomia e senza l’intervento dei tutors. Il secondo gruppo è stato più veloce del primo gruppo su resezioni minori e maggiori (p = 0,0001). La perdita di sangue è risultata significativamente minore nel secondo gruppo (p = 0,005). I residenti hanno superato le nostre aspettative per quanto riguarda il tempo di intervento, la perdita di sangue e le conversioni a laparatomia, convalidando il nostro programma di formazione. Il programma è stato aggiornato passo-passo puntando all’ideale, alla fine della fase 2b (esplorazione), quando i residenti concretizzano i benefici di questo modello. La riduzione della perdita di sangue e della perdita di parenchima funzionale dimostra l’utilità di una fase di riscaldamento. CONCLUSIONE: la curva di apprendimento, aggiungendo i contributi dell’imaging anatomici al protocollo base consente una maggiore chiarezza prima dell’esecuzione delle resezioni laparoscopiche del fegato e migliora il nostro protocollo “passo dopo passo”.

The accurate localization of small tumors of the digestive tract is of paramount importance in surgical oncology because it dictates the limits of resection and the extent of lymph node dissection. In this view, we have designed and fabricated a highly efficient sensing laparoscopic instrument focused on precise non-invasive extralumenal intraoperative detection of small colorectal or gastric tumors. The equipment is fully adapted for laparoscopic surgery and consists of an inductive proximity sensor encapsulated into a watertight stainless-steel case that is connected to an electronic functional block dimensionally scaled-down by the desired form and size for optimal surgical manipulation. The sensor-case unit and the electronic block are coupled together using a modular system which allows disconnection of the latter and sterilization by autoclavation of the former, followed by swift plugging of the electronic block just before surgery in a sterile-controlled environment. The instrument works in tandem with a modified endoscopic hemostatic clip which is attached endoscopically, before surgery, in the mucosa proximal and distal to the tumor. By scanning the serosal side of the digestive organ during the laparoscopic surgical procedure, the detector senses the modified clip and thus pinpoints to the location of the tumor. Additional engineering of the standard endoscopic hemostatic clips by coating them with various combinations of metallic alloys of Cu and Zn was necessary to improve the detection range and sensitivity without compromising on their functionality. The clips were also covered with nanometric layers of Au to ensure their biocompatibility. The ex-vivo dry-lab experiments showed a satisfactory detection distance which was later confirmed in ex-vivo wet-lab experiments on animal organs and human surgical specimens.

Meningiomas in dogs occur more commonly in the brain than in the cranial spinal cord. Intramedullary spinal cord tumours in dogs are described infrequently and present a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. A nine-year-old Beagle dog was referred because of tetraparesis of a 20-day duration. The neurological signs were suggestive of a selective lesion involving the cervical spinal cord. Sagittal T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical vertebral column revealed a ventral, well-circumscribed mass within the vertebral canal at the level of cervical segment 6 (C6). A primary neoplasia was considered as probable differential diagnosis. The mass was removed by cervical laminectomy, durotomy and gentle dissections. On the basis of histological and immunohistochemical findings, a diagnosis of transitional meningioma (grade I) was made. Treatment of the meningioma with surgery resulted in a complete recovery, the dog was able to walk 21 days after surgery and had normal walk two months after presentation. Clinicopathologic and treatment data of cranial intraspinal meningiomas have been reported sporadically, but a segment 6 location was not thoroughly described before.

Experimental studies on small lab animals, particularly rats are a widely-used model (Ordodi et. all 2004). Blood pressure measurement is one of the fastest and most informative means of assessing cardiovascular function and provides an accurate indication of drug effects, surgical events and hemodynamic trends (Tranquilli et. all, 2007). A close monitoring of the animals during the experiment is important to detect early imbalances and prevent any changes that could compromise the results.Blood pressure measurement is one of the basic procedures in biomedical research and it can be done by non-invasive or invasive technics. The gold standard procedures with the most accuracy are the invasive technics. This includes radial, femoral, brachial or carotid cannulation (Parasuraman et. all 2012). Carotid artery catheterization is a common procedure that allows precise monitoring of the blood pressure but surgery is required to perform them (Plehm et. all 2006).Experimental surgery on small lab animals, especially rats, it’s a widely used model. In order to perform surgery, anaesthesia must be used and it usually causes a slowdown of the respiration that induces metabolic imbalances. It could cause cardiovascular collapse and death if left unbalanced. A close monitoring of the respiration, ECG, blood pressure is necessary during the experiment (Ordodi et. all 2004).Because it may not be always available or the prohibitive cost of the special equipment used to perform these tasks, we adapted a simple device and method to record the mean arterial pressure (MAP) in rats by carotid catheterisation and the results obtained were sustainable.

Background and aims. In the age of synthetic prostheses most of hernia studies include a careful examination of the various types of prosthesis, their characteristics and their repair indications. Biological prostheses are also beginning to draw attention. But in terms of recurrence especially for poor or developing countries, the discussion is different, due to their high cost which makes them difficult to afford. In this article we present new flap reconstruction techniques for the reconstruction of the abdominal wall versus mesh repair, applied on swine models, outline the results of each technique, and specify the indications for their use.Methods. An experimental protocol using four swine models (PIC-FII-337 hybrid breed pigs), five months old, was conducted. All animal care and operative procedures were studied following the protocol approved by the Ethics Committee of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy resolution no. 281/2014 of the Department of Surgery of the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine); the study was carried out between November 2015 and February 2016. The primary objective was to compare the effect of surgical strategies in the treatment of the abdominal wall defect using variable flaps versus mesh repair in a large-animal models. Physical examination and ultrasound imaging of the abdominal wall repair were done on determined periods, during one month. The complications occurring after the abdominal wall repair were edema, collections, superficial dehiscence an recurrences.Results. No recurrences were reported at one month results, all seromas reported were solved over time by natural drainage. Superficial necrosis appeared in two swine models and superficial dehiscence occurred in one model, the perforator ”plus” flap. Mesh infection was detected in the “onlay” swine model.Conclusions. In terms of recurrences, contaminated abdominal wall defects or other contraindications to the use of prosthetic materials, biological mesh repair or flap surgery are the only surgical options. Based on our findings and considering the high cost reported by the biological meshes use, flap surgery becomes the suitable treatment for such cases, allowing a good reconstruction of the abdominal wall.

The aim of this study was to establish a specific interdisciplinary protocol for evaluation of horses with spinal cord compression. A filly was presented with signs of ataxia at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca. After neurological examination the presumptive diagnostic was spinal cord compression. Under general anesthesia, the patient was placed for radiological examination in lateral recumbency with head elevated. After antisepsia of cervical region, a Tuohy needle was inserted in atlanto-occipital space and contrast substance was administrated. Radiographic images of the cervical vertebral column were obtained in the neutral, flexed, and extended head positions. The anesthesia protocol was effective, the needle was placed safely in the subarachnoid space and the contrast substance flowed caudally. The obtained radiographic images confirmed spinal cord compressions at the level of cervical vertebrae C3, C4, C5. This working protocol was effective to obtain radiographical images with contrast substance in horses with neurological diseases.

Introduction Free flaps require mastering microsurgical technique. In addition, breast reconstruction implies accuracy not only in flap survival, but also satisfying aesthetic outcome. Thus, such complex abilities can be acquired by creating experimental models for surgical training. Materials and Methods In accordance with relevant anatomy data found in literature, we chose a porcine model and performed a flap similar to the human deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP). Furthermore we developed a surgical protocol for a free flap transfer similar to a double-pedicle DIEP flap. The adipo-cutaneous flap was harvested as a free flap based on the superior abdominal vascularization and microsurgical anastomoses were performed to both the internal thoracic and thoracodorsal vessels. Results We were able to harvest a superior epigastric double-perforator free flap with increased similarity to the human DIEP flap. Microsurgical anastomoses were possible to both to the internal thoracic vessels and thoracodorsal vessels, which both proved to have optimal caliber for termino-terminal anastomosis. Conclusion Although there are several differences when comparing a swine experimental model with human anatomy, our protocol enhances the possibilities for training in breast reconstruction.

Simple Summary This review aims to provide an overview of the relevance of electroacupuncture in dogs with spinal cord injury. We illustrate and discuss the areas that have advanced in recent years and those that still require further research. Systematic studies have been conducted on Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Cab Direct, and Research Gate. This article is believed to be the first review of electroacupuncture in dogs with spinal cord injury. Electroacupuncture provides better analgesia than direct acupuncture by increasing spinal opioid release and increases blood supply to the spinal cord and nerve root. When combined together, Eastern and Western treatment offers faster recovery and improved ambulation and perception of deep pain than medical treatment results alone. Abstract In recent years, the use of acupuncture and electroacupuncture has been increasing as more clinical research has been conducted showing positive results in the treatment of animals, particularly dogs. Electroacupuncture is a more complex and specific acupuncture technique that involves electrical stimulation on acupuncture needles. Most of the studies have shown that the beneficial effects of electroacupuncture are more evident than in acupuncture alone. This review included studies focused only on dogs with spinal cord injury. Research facility animals (mice, rats, and rabbits) were avoided. Titles and abstracts of identified articles were read, and outlines were made to be better understood. Clinical applications are discussed and suggested in each section. When specialists use this method, electroacupuncture can be an excellent complementary therapy for veterinary patients’ pain control.

Introduction: PDA represents one of the most frequently diagnosed type of congenital heart disease. Ductus arteriosus is a normal structure in foetal life, which permits shunting of oxygenated blood from the pulmonary artery into the aorta. Failure of sealing after birth is an abnormal condition and is called patent ductus arteriosus. In normal PDA, due to fact that systemic pressure is fivefold higher than pulmonary circulation, blood is shunted from the aorta into the pulmonary artery. In reverse PDA, pulmonary artery pressure does not drop after birth, and blood will be shunted form right to left. Aims: We want to evaluate clinical, haematological, ECG and echocardiographic changes in case of reverse PDA. Materials and Methods: Two-year old female Bichon Frise was referred to our clinic with signs of effort intolerance and dyspnoea for more than a year. ECG was performed in the right lateral recumbency using a digital device and echocardiography was done with Esaote MyLab40 Vet with a phased array transducer matched with the size of the dog (7.5 MHz). Results: We identified a dog with a good body score, quite alert and without any sign of illness. Haematological investigation underlined polycythaemia and very high PCV. The ECG revealed a normal sinus rhythm with a deep S wave, changes consistent with right ventricle enlargement.  Right atrial dilation and right ventricle hypertrophy were found on cardiac ultrasonography. The right ventricle free wall was hypertrophied and interventricular septum was flattened, changes consistent with increased pressure on the right side of the heart. The left heart was small. Positive diagnosis was done, performing “bubble study” and identification of contrast bubble within the abdominal aorta.  Conclusion: Reverse PDA is a rarely diagnosed congenital heart disease. Polycythaemia in young dogs could raise the suspicion of reverse PDA.  For positive diagnosis, echocardiography and bubble study are required. ECG is not a sensitive tool for diagnosis.

The present study focused on evaluation of induction, maintenance and emergence of inhaled anesthesia and comparison of these anesthetics times for isoflurane and sevoflurane. The biological material consisted of 12 Wistar rats divided into 2 groups, each containing a number of 6 rats. One group was anesthetized with isoflurane and the other with sevoflurane. We monitorized the rats during all stages of anesthesia, observing how the induction established, the state of the rats throughout the anestesia and the moment of the first recovery signs, the moment the rats became active as well as the moment of full recovery from anesthesia. Both isoflurane and sevoflurane rapidly induced the anesthesia, without excitation signs and the emergence was significantly faster in sevoflurane group in comparison to the isoflurane group, being accompanied by horipilation in both anesthetics.

Three common buzzards (Buteo buteo) were brought to the veterinary emergency hospital in Cluj-Napoca with right wing trauma, inflicted by a car accident and multiple gunshot wounds. Clinical and Rtg examination were used to diagnose one humeral and two radio-ulnar fractures in the right wing. The fractures were reduced by using the simple intramedullary retrograde pinning technique, adapted to the requirements of the pneumatic avian bones. Radiological tests were performed at 3, 7 and 21 days postoperatively. The X-rays showed callus formation and healing processes. However, because of complications (paresis, muscular atrophy and osteomyelitis), the flight capacity could not be restored in all 3 cases. This is the first case series of right wing fractures, caused by gunshot and car accident trauma, to be reported in Romania. The orthopedic technique used had proved its effectiveness in healing long bone fractures, but due to presence of osteomyelitis, excessive fracture mobility and the sectioning of the radial nerve, the main objective, i.e. regaining flight capacity, was reached in only one patient.

Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens are mosquito-borne nematodes, primarily infecting dogs, but also other species of carnivores and even humans. Given their impact on animal and human health, the transmission of these filarioids has been widely studied. The microfilariaemia has been shown to have a circadian variation for both Dirofilaria species infecting dogs. Due to methodological difficulties, the periodicity was only studied using venous blood samples, while the mosquitoes feed, in fact, on capillary blood. In this context, the present study aimed to test the feasibility of using triatomine bugs for the collection of capillary blood and to comparatively evaluate the level of microfilariaemia and its circadian variation in capillary blood vs. peripheral venous blood in a dog naturally co-infected with D. immitis and D. repens. The results showed a feeding success of 50%, with variations in the blood meal volume that the bugs ingested. The relative values of microfilariaemia (mf/bug) were strongly correlated with the volume of blood recovered: the more blood recovered from each bug, the higher values of microfilariaemia in the evening samples while the opposite results were obtained for the morning samples. The counting of microfilariae revealed a dominance of D. immitis in all the samples, but with significantly higher microfilariaemia in the venous blood. Meanwhile, for D. repens, the situation was opposite, with higher counts in the capillary blood samples. Our study showed that triatomine bugs can be used as a model for the collection and study of microfilariaemia in the capillary blood in mammals.

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of bipolar electroacupuncture (EA) on a soft tissue defect in rabbits. Ten clinically healthy New Zealand white rabbits were divided into two groups: the control group (Group C, n = 5) and the experimental (EA) group (Group T, n = 5). During neuroleptanalgesia, defects of soft tissue (skin and muscle) were made at the dorsum site on the rabbits in both groups, and those defects were stimulated using EA. The biopsy samples were collected on Day 2, Day 4, and Day 6, prepared for histology, and examined microscopically. On the 2 nd day, in Group C, the inflammatory degree was higher than it was in Group T; on subsequent days, low or identical degrees of inflammation were observed in both groups. Proliferative fibrous activity was increased on Day 4 for Group T and identical for both groups on Day 6. The dynamics of the epidermal thickness were characterized by a high rate on Day 2, Day 4, and Day 6 for Group T. EA facilitates a low tissue mechanical stress and has a positive effect on the healing of muscular defects. EA enhances the healing process, with no side effects.

Blood pressure is a cardinal vital sign that gives important information about the cardiovascular function and about hemodynamic trends during anaesthesia, in critical ill patients and during experimental procedures (Rehman and Nelson, 2018). Arterial blood pressure can be evaluated by direct technique (arterial catheter) or indirect technique (Doppler or oscillometry). Direct measurement is gold standard for blood pressure measurement, giving accurate beat-to-beat information and also allow collection of blood samples. However, it is more invasive and requires equipment for monitoring and experience to place the arterial catheter (Araghi et al., 2006; Ward and Langton, 2007; Wingfield and Raffe, 2002). Given its importance in directing care, it is essential to measure blood pressure accurately and consistently.The aim of this article is to present all technique found in literature, with its advantages and disadvantages, with the errors that may occur so that the researchers can have a better knowledge before choosing their technique. For this study we took into consideration articles from literature and speciality books from which we extracted the information reliable for the study. Experimental studies on small laboratory animals, particularly rats are widely used as a model. Three methods are used for recording the blood pressure in rats: tail cuff (indirect technique), intra-arterial catheters (direct technique), and radio telemetry. Each technique has its advantages and disadvantages and each of it may lead to erroneous data if they are improperly performed. The vast ranges of these errors highlight the importance of adhering to appropriate technique when measuring blood pressure.

The bioactive glasses can lead to the promotion of growth of granulation tissue, while the gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) can induce the acceleration of wound healing including tissue regeneration, connective tissue formation, and angiogenesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of using the bioactive glass (BG) and BG-AuNPs composites on skin wound healing in experimental rat models for 14 days. Sol-gel derived BGs and BG-AuNPs composites mixed with Vaseline at 6, 12 and 18 wt% were used to evaluate the repair response of the skin. During the process of healing, granulomatous reaction was observed in the wound treated with 12 and 18 wt% BG-Vaseline ointments. Furthermore, a strong vascular proliferation and complete wound regeneration were found in 18%BG-AuNPs-Vaseline treated groups. The results derived from the performed investigations revealed that the 18% BG-AuNPs-Vaseline ointment is a promising candidate for wound healing applications.

Gold nanorods (GNR) have been prepared by a seed mediated method and then functionalized with chitosan, in order to increase their biocompatibility. The interaction of GNR with whole blood has been assessed by means of fluorescence spectroscopy. The whole blood gives rise to a fluorescence emission peak with the maximum centered at 475 nm when a 410 nm excitation wavelength has been used. In vivo assessment of the existence of nanorods in the bloodstream is proven by the increase of the whole blood fluorescence due to metal enhanced fluorescence phenomenon, which leads to an increase of fluorescence emission in the close vicinity of noble metal anisotropic nanostructures.

The purpose of this paper is to emphasise the importance of the clinical exam in the evaluation of dogs with neurological disorders. A strict evaluation of this group of dogs during the clinical examination conduces to a more rapid diagnosis, reducing the risk of radiation and unnecessary costs by using the modern medical imaging techniques. Dogs from different breeds, of different ages and sex were examined. After the typical clinical procedures, for all the animals a neurological examination was performed. Once we have received the owner’s consent, basic blood biochemistry and haematology was performed. The VITAMIND protocol was mandatory for each dog. In order to establish the final diagnosis, the dogs were examined by imaging techniques or by other tests (e.g. for endocrynopathies). Further the dogs were treated systematically with appropriate drugs. The results show that all the diagnoses of the examined dogs can be confirmed by imaging and/or other techniques (physical examination methods), depending on the disease’ etiology. In order to have a correct and quick diagnosis of animals with neurological disorders, a certain examination protocol should be followed. The effectiveness of the treatments was different, according to the specific disease. Taking everything into account, the diagnostic medical imaging techniques are very important but not always necessary. Precious time is saved when the examining physician is able to evaluate and interpret the clinical signs obtained by the animal inspection.

Background Ovarian tumors in reptiles are uncommonly reported in the literature and for green iguanas previously reported cases include teratomas, one adenocarcinoma and one papillary cystadenocarcinoma. The present report is the first of a malignant ovarian teratoma in a green iguana. Complete and detailed pathological features, differential diagnosis and surgical management of malignant ovarian teratoma are discussed in this paper. Case Presentation A 9-year-old intact female green iguana (Iguana iguana) with a clinical history of persistent anorexia and progressive abdominal distension was referred to the surgery department. On physical examination, a presumptive diagnosis of follicular stasis was established. Radiographic evaluation showed a large radioopaque mass within the abdomen, which was visible both in latero-lateral and ventro-dorsal exposures. Abdominal ultrasonography showed a large intra-abdominal mass, with numerous cyst-like structures filled with liquid and a heterogeneous aspect with hypoechoic areas. Exploratory laparatomy was thus suggested and the mass was removed surgically. The histologic findings of the neoplasm were consistent with those of ovarian malignant teratoma. Surgical excision of the mass in our case was considered curative and after a follow-up period of 6 months the animal has recovered completely. Conclusions A malignant ovarian teratoma has not been previously reported in green iguana and should be included in the list of differential diagnosis of ovarian tumors in this species. This report will contribute to a better understanding of the pathology of this rare tumor in green iguanas.

Aims: The high technical demands associated with perforator flaps demand a precise preoperative identification and evaluation of perforator vessels. Color Doppler Ultrasonography (CDU) and Dynamic Infrared Thermography (DIRT) are currently used for preoperative perforator mapping. Each individual technique has advantages and disadvantages. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the value of combining the two methods in order to optimize the process of preoperative perforator mapping. Material and methods: CDU and DIRT were used for preoperative perforator mapping in 10 pigs. The results were compared to intraoperative findings. Total number of perforators, localization, and identification of the dominant perforator was analyzed for each method. The examination time was recorded for each procedure. Results: Both methods had a high sensitivity in determining the number and localization of perforators when compared to those identified during surgery. DIRT produced a higher number of false positive results. CDU accurately identified the emergence of the perforators in the fascia in all cases. Both methods correctly identified the dominant perforator. The sensitivity, positive predictive value, and accuracy of CDU were 93.56%, 97%, and 91.30% respectively and for DIRT 95.05%, 80.67%, and 77.41% respectively. The average examination was 39.76 minutes for CDU and 10.24 minutes for DIRT. The average time taken into account for the analysis of a single perforator in order to confirm DIRT findings was 1.83 minutes. Conclusions: Preoperative perforator mapping has become a compulsory step in nearly all reconstructive procedures. In our study, both CDU and DIRT correctly identified the dominant perforator in all cases. By combining the two examinations overall mapping time can be reduced significantly. A reduced examination time translates into increased patient compliance and a lower procedure cost. The combined mapping technique facilitates the selection of the ideal perforator in all cases. Correctly identifying the dominant perforator preoperatively reduces operative time, lowers complication rates and ensures an overall better result.

Nowadays, endoscopy represents one of the most useful tools in the diagnosis of digestive pathologies in human beings and animals. Whether we are talking about upper or lower gastrointestinal tract endoscopies, these procedures dramatically increase the capacity to diagnose digestive disorders in dogs and cats. The aim of the present study is to investigate the role of endoscopy in the diagnosis of digestive pathologies.This paper represents our 5 years’ experience in digestive endoscopy. During this period we performed more than 150 digestive procedures in dogs and we diagnosed a heteromorphic digestive pathology. Clinical cases were represented by client-owned dogs that were referred to our clinic with a suspicion of digestive pathology.. We diagnosed erosive esophagitis and esophageal foreign bodies, hemorrhagic gastritis and ulcers, gastric and intestinal tumors, infiltrative enteritis, cecal intussusception, and colorectal carcinoma. It must be stressed that these diagnoses were missed using other investigative methods, and we can sustain that endoscopy dramatically increases our diagnostic capacity. Moreover in some conditions (for e.g. esophageal or gastric foreign bodies) endoscopy could also be used as a therapeutic tool.We recommend endoscopy in every case where there is a suspicion of digestive pathology and where other diagnostic tools did not reveal any abnormalities. The main disadvantages of endoscopy were the need for anesthesia in case of upper G.I. series and the cost of the procedure. We did not encounter any complications related to anesthesia or the procedure itself.

The interest of sex determination in embryos has an economical and research implication. This method is directly related to the embryo transfer method, which nowadays is considered to be an industry, in both equine and bovine. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the applicability of equine embryo sexing using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and to decide if this method is affordable for Romania and yields good results. Five equine embryos have been obtained by natural breeding using transcervical uterine lavage with Ringer Lactate on 6.5 or 7 days. The DNA extraction was performed by using proteinase K and the DNA was quantified by spectrophotometry. Three sets of primers have been used. The double nested PCR was performed, followed by electrophoresis of the amplified samples. From the five embryos obtained, three samples presented a single 445 bp DNA band and no SRY band and they were considered to be females. In two cases, the 445 bp was accompanied by the SRY-1 217 bp and SRY-2 121 bp band, thus being considered to come from male embryos. The embryo biopsy was done in 2 embryos and one biopsied embryo was transferred to a recipient mare. The transfer of the biopsied embryo did not succeed. PCR is suitable for sexing preimplantation equine embryos, but still in order to perform this type of activity at a commercial level, the infrastructure and the development of Equine Reproduction centres it’s mandatory.

The main problem of ethylene glycol consumption and intoxication is acute tubular necrosis and consecutive acute renal failure. In our case a 3,5 years Bucovina Shepard female dog presented with acute renal failure following antifreeze ingestion. The dog was subjected to three HF hemodialysis treatments which dramatically reduced the urea creatinine levels and also the metabolic derangements.

Dystocia is one of the most common disorders in reptiles. Regardless of the cause of this reproductive tract disorder, in most of the cases, surgery is the option of treatment. In female chameleons this is a common disorder mostly due to the environmental conditions and very young age of reproduction.Four female reptiles, three chameleons (Chamaeleo caliptratus) and a snake (Orthriophis taeniurus taeniurus) were presented to our clinic and diagnosed with dystocia. After the females were anesthetized using Butorphanol, Propofol and Isoflurane, coeliotomy was performed. After exploration of the coelom ovariosalpingotomy through a paramedian coeliotomy was performed in the case of the female chameleons and salpingotomy with eggs extraction in the case of the female snake, through a latero-costal coeliotomy. The salpinx was closed using a continous suture and a Cushing continous pattern (monofilament absorbable 4.0) and the coelom, in all cases, using 5.0 monofilament absorbable material. The skin was closed in an everted pattern using 4.0 monofilament nonabsorbable material. All four animals recovered well after surgery and received postoperative treatment, antibiotics (Cefuroxime, 20 mg/kg) for 10 to 20 days and analgesia using Meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg, every 48 hours). The suture material was removed 1 month after the surgical procedures.

Egg binding is a common reproductive disorder in pet birds of all age and species. In some cases there is no evident clinical sign present, mostly due to the cause of the disorder, but also the species. In other cases, like cockatiels, finches, lovebirds or canaries, signs are more evidentA female pigeon was presented to our clinic with a history of egg laying problem. Based on history, palpation and X-Ray findings the diagnosis was that of egg binding. Due to the fact that the egg was too large to be laid, surgery was the treatment of choice.Under general anesthesia with Butorphanol and Isoflurane, the pigeon was placed in dorsal recumbency, the surgical field was prepped and a midline coeliotomy was performed. Removal of the necrotic egg was achieved by salpingotomy and a Cushing suture (monofilament absorbable 6.0) was used for the lumen closure. The coelom was then closed using a continous pattern (poliglicolic acid 4.0) for the abdominal muscles and a single layer everted pattern for skin (silk 3.0), the last being removed 7 days after the surgical procedure.The bird recovered well after surgery. The postoperative treatment consisted of the

In modern veterinary medicine, like in human medicine all major surgery procedures must be performed under balanced anaesthesia. This protocol contained substances that insure: neurovegetativ protection, analgesia, miorelaxation, hypnosis. Rocuronium represent a nondepolarizing agent, intermediate acting ( 60-120 seconds), with relative long effects ( 40-90 minutes), and with the posibility of effect reversal ( agents-Sugammadex). Â The aim of this study was monitorization of clinical, haematological and biochemical parameters perioperative in dogs scheduled for orthopedic procedures. This study was performed on five canine patients (different breed, with age between 4 months to 11 years), scheduled for femoral had resection procedure. In this dogs balanced anaesthesia was performed: induction with propofol to effect, maintained with sevoflurane 2.5%; analgesic component: fentanyl 3I¼g/kg b.w.-bolus followed by CRI 5 I¼g/kg b.w./min, the neuromuscular blocking agent was represented by rocuronium 0.4 mg/kg b.w. Haematological analysis were performed with Abacus Junior Vet 3 diff analyzer, biochemical parameters with UV-VIS Screen Master Touch Hospitex Diagnostic spectrophotometer, and electrolytes with GEM Premier 2000 analyzer. The majority of biochemical and mineral parameters suffered only small changes, without statistical importance. After the surgery we determined only a slight reduction of erythrocyte number, haemoglobin and PCV, a mild increase of I³-globulin. Regarding the clinical parameters only internal temperatures was modified. We recommend the use of rocuronium in orthopedic procedures for the advantages offered in the surgical act (profound miorelaxation) without any major biochemical, haematological, electrolytes alteration.

Venous blood gases analysis provides information on acid-base status and ventilation (venous partial pressure of CO2) (Reiss A.2009). General anaesthesia reduces the oxygenation degree of blood (Grimm K.A. 2010), and SpO2 analysis by trans cutaneous monitor does not approximate correctly the level of oxygenation from the patient’s body (Linda S.Barter 2011).

Background and aims . The present study conducted from March 2012 to July 2013 aimed to evaluate from echocardiographic point of view the effects of peripheral intravenous administration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in laboratory rabbits presenting 30 days old chronic myocardial infarction. Material and methods. 30 days after the induction of an acute myocardial infarction in 40 laboratory rabbits by direct ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery at about 10 mm from the apex, we injected 1x106 MSCs in the auricular vein in a group of 30 rabbits, and a group of 10 rabbits were used as controls. 30 days after the injection of stem cells the left ventricular (LV) fractional shortening (FS) was evaluated by echocardiography and compared with the control rabbits. Results. In control rabbits, echocardiography revealed akinesis of apex, interventricular septum kinetics was also impaired, FS being approximately 6%. In 80% (24 rabbits) of the injected rabbits the FS of the LV was significantly greater than in the witness group (26+/-2%, p

A survey with 32 questions was performed in Cluj-Napoca veterinary private practices about the routine anaesthetic management of dogs. Of those veterinarians who answered this questionnaire, 18.2% are equipped with a machine for inhalation anesthesia, 27.3% do not use any monitoring during anesthesia and no one use methods of monitoring blood pressure. All the veterinarians graduated the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca. Ketamine and alpha 2 agonists remain the most used anesthetic substances in private practices. Postoperative analgesia is used constantly by 81.8% of veterinarians. The mortality rate in veterinary practices in Cluj - Napoca for two years was 0.25% (1:403).