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Objective: To compare the perioperative analgesic effect of lateral versus latero-ventral quadratus lumborum block (QLB) in dogs undergoing laparoscopic ovariectomy., Study Design: Randomized, blinded clinical study., Animals: A total of 15 client-owned female dogs undergoing laparoscopic ovariectomy., Methods: Animals were randomly assigned to receive a bilateral QLB, performed with 0.3 mL kg -1 ropivacaine 0.5%, either with lateral (group L QLB , n = 7) or latero-ventral approach (group LV QLB , n = 7). Dogs were premedicated intramuscularly with methadone 0.2 mg kg -1 and dexmedetomidine 3 μg kg -1 . General anaesthesia was induced intravenously (IV) with propofol and maintained with isoflurane. Cardiovascular and respiratory variables were continuously monitored and recorded every 5 minutes during surgery. Fentanyl 3 μg kg -1 was administered IV if there was a 20% increase in heart rate and/or mean arterial pressure from previous values recorded 5 minutes before. Meloxicam 0.2 mg kg -1 was administered IV to all dogs during recovery. The short-form of the Glasgow Composite Pain Scale was used hourly for 8 hours post-QLB. Methadone 0.2 mg kg -1 was administered IV when pain score was ≥ 6/24. A chi-square test compared the number of dogs requiring intraoperative rescue fentanyl. A Friedman test with a Dunn's post hoc was used to evaluate the trend in postoperative pain scores within each group, and a Mann-Whitney U test compared scores between the groups at each time point; p < 0.05., Results: Significantly fewer dogs required intraoperative rescue fentanyl in group L QLB than in group LV QLB . No dog required postoperative rescue methadone, and there were no significant differences in pain scores., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Bilateral QLB performed with lateral approach reduced the number of dogs requiring intraoperative rescue analgesia in comparison with the latero-ventral approach. No differences were detected postoperatively, possibly owing to the confounding effects of methadone, dexmedetomidine and meloxicam., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Objective:  To describe a modification of the tibial plateau leveling osteotomy technique wherein a double cut is made in the same plane to level the tibial plateau (double-cut tibial plateau leveling osteotomy [DCTPLO]) for treating dogs with cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) and excessive tibial plateau angle (eTPA) diseases., Study Design:  The DCTPLO technique was performed on 18 stifles in dogs with CrCL and an eTPA (>34°). This study evaluated the accuracy of preoperative planning, feasibility of the technique, postoperative clinical outcomes, radiographic examinations at the postoperative follow-up for the first 120 days, evolution of the tibial plateau angle (TPA), time of union of the osteotomy, apposition of the implants, and possible complications., Results:  The described technique proved to be feasible for clinical application, with reproducibility from preoperative planning. An effective reduction in the eTPA levels was observed. The mean preoperative and postoperative TPA values were 39.4° (36°-43.5°) and 6.3° (3°-13°), respectively. Radiographic healing time was 60 days in 17/18 of stifles. Minor complications (not requiring surgical review or clinical treatment) were observed in 4/18 of stifles., Conclusion:  The DCTPLO technique was effective for treating CrCL disease with TPA of up to 43.5° in dogs., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: To investigate the use of endovascular gastrointestinal stapling devices to perform intestinal functional end-to-end stapled anastomosis in small dogs and cats., Materials and Methods: Medical records of dogs (≤10 kg) and cats that underwent intestinal resection and functional end-to-end stapled anastomosis with an endovascular gastrointestinal anastomosis (endovascular-GIA) stapling device at five small animal referral centres between April 2014 and September 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Data including clinical findings, surgical technique, histopathology and complications were collected. A minimum follow-up of 10 days was required. Patients with follow-up of less than 10 days were included if they developed a major complication. Outcome was obtained from assessing the clinical records and contacting the referring veterinarians or owners. Estimated survival was generated according to the Kaplan-Meier method. Differences between survival curves were tested by log-rank test., Results: Twenty-five patients (10 dogs and 15 cats) were included. The median bodyweight was 4.6 kg (range 2.6 to 10 kg). Nine patients were diagnosed with intestinal neoplasia, 16 with non-neoplastic intestinal disease. The median follow-up was 126 days (range 18 to 896 days). Five patients developed minor postoperative complications, including three superficial surgical site infections. No major postoperative complications were reported. Eighteen patients were alive at the end of the study, one patient was lost to follow-up. Kaplan-Meier estimated median survival time was not reached. Survival was significantly longer for patients with non-neoplastic versus neoplastic intestinal., Clinical Significance: The study suggests that the use of endovascular gastrointestinal anastomosis staplers is safe and effective to perform intestinal functional end-to-end stapled anastomosis in dogs ≤10 kg and cats., (© 2024 British Small Animal Veterinary Association.)

Objective: To describe the use of virtual surgical planning (VSP) and three-dimensionally (3D) printed surgical guides for corrective osteotomies stabilized with an interlocking nail in a dog with a multiplanar femoral deformity., Study Design: Case report., Animals: An 8-year-old male neutered mixed breed dog weighing 44 kg., Methods: A dog was presented for a right grade 3 lateral patellar luxation secondary to a multiplanar femoral deformity due to a suspected femoral malunion. A computed tomography (CT) scan was obtained to create virtual femoral models. Corrective osteotomies were simulated with VSP. Custom osteotomy guides and reaming guides were designed to facilitate the correction and the placement of an interlocking nail. The preoperative femoral model, virtually aligned femoral model, custom osteotomy guides, and reaming guides were 3D printed, sterilized, and utilized intraoperatively. A CT scan was performed postoperatively to assess femoral length and alignment., Results: Custom osteotomy and reaming guides were used as intended by the VSP. Postoperative femoral length as well as frontal, sagittal, and axial plane alignment were within 0.7 mm, 2.2°, 0.5°, and 1.6°, respectively, of the virtually planned femoral model. Two months postoperatively, the dog was sound on visual gait examination, and the patella tracked in the trochlear groove throughout stifle range of motion and was unable to be manually luxated. Radiographs obtained 2 months postoperatively revealed static femoral alignment and implants. Both osteotomies were discernable with callus bridging., Conclusion: Virtual surgical planning and custom osteotomy and reaming guides facilitated complex femoral corrective osteotomies and interlocking nail placement., (© 2024 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective:  The main aim of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility of spinal neuronavigation for plate fixation of lumbar vertebrae in miniature breed dogs using a surgical navigation system in combination with a custom-made reference array., Study Design:  This was an experimental cadaveric study in five miniature breed dogs., Methods:  A 4-hole locking plate with four 2.0-mm locking screws was placed on two adjacent lumbar vertebrae using a neuronavigation system consisting of a mobile cone beam computed tomography linked to a navigation system. The procedure was performed by a novice surgeon. The plate and screw positions were assessed for surgical safety using predefined criteria. Surgical accuracy was determined by the deviation of entry and exit points between pre- and postoperative images., Results:  A total of five plates and 20 screws were placed. In 85% (17/20), screws were placed appropriately. The median entry point deviation was 1.8 mm (range: 0.3-3.7) and the median exit point deviation was 1.6 mm (range: 0.6-5)., Conclusion:  Achievement of surgical accuracy in the placement of screws for fixation of lumbar vertebral plates in small breed dogs using neuronavigation with a custom-made reference array by a novice surgeon resulted in surgical safe plate placement in four of the five cadavers. Therefore, we judge the method as promising, however, further studies are necessary to allow the transfer of image-guided navigation for lumbar plate fixation into the clinic., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To compare perioperative opioid consumption in dogs undergoing pelvic limb surgeries and receiving a lumbosacral plexus block by combining a lumbar [lateral pre-iliac (LPI)] block with a lumbosacral trunk [i.e. parasacral (PS group) or greater ischiatic notch plane (GIN group)] block. Study design Retrospective, descriptive, exploratory, noninferiority cohort study., Methods: Medical records of 37 client-owned dogs were analyzed. Intraoperative (primary outcome) and postoperative (24 hours) opioid use, 24 hour cumulative pain scores and prevalence of complications were compared between the two groups. Opioid use was quantified in morphine equivalents (ME, mg kg -1 ). The noninferiority limit for intraoperative opioid consumption was set at 0.05 ME kg -1 hour -1 . Demographic data, procedure duration, surgery type and perioperative dexmedetomidine and ketamine use were also collected. A t-test or Wilcoxon rank-sum test, a Fisher's exact test and multivariable linear regression were used. Significance was set at p < 0.05., Results: The GIN and PS groups comprised 17 and 20 dogs, respectively. Total intraoperative ME consumption was 0.17 (0.11-0.21) and 0.22 (0.16-0.30) mg kg -1 hour -1 for the GIN and PS groups, respectively (p = 0.077). The noninferiority analysis adjusted by surgery type and body mass revealed that the mean difference between the groups (GIN - PS) was -0.039 (95% CI -0.11-0.03, p = 0.247) ME mg kg -1 hour -1 , indicating that the GIN group was not inferior to the PS group regarding intraoperative ME consumption. Dexmedetomidine and ketamine use, postoperative ME consumption and pain scores were similar between groups., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: This retrospective study and preliminary observations support the clinical use of the GIN plane block, demonstrating its noninferiority to the PS block when combined with the LPI block for multimodal perioperative analgesia in dogs undergoing pelvic limb surgeries., (Copyright © 2024 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective:  Rock-back is a reported complication following tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO), whereby tibial plateau angle (TPA) increases postoperatively. The mechanism of rock-back is not fully understood, although a recent ex vivo investigation demonstrated that osteotomy exit cut angle (ECA) and inclination of the plate in the sagittal plane might be risk factors. The purpose of this study was to explore these relationships in a clinical dog population. We hypothesized that dogs with rock-back would have a higher degree of plate inclination and downward ECA compared with those without rock-back., Materials and Methods:  Medical records and radiographs of dogs that underwent TPLO between January 2021 and January 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. TPA was recorded preoperatively, postoperatively, and at follow-up. Plate inclination, ECA, and descriptive data were collected. Observers measuring TPA were blinded to other variables. Rock-back was defined as a change in TPA ≥ 2., Results:  Ninety-five TPLO procedures met the inclusion criteria ( n  = 87 dogs). Rock-back was identified in 21% of TPLOs ( n  = 20/95). The mean increase in TPA in the rock-back group was 3.2 ± 2.6. Plate inclination and ECA were not correlated with the presence of rock-back. Descriptive variables did not have a significant correlation with rock-back., Conclusion:  Plate inclination and ECA did not have a relationship with rock-back when defined as a postoperative TPA change ≥2 degrees, in this clinical retrospective study., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To compare the outcome of the laparotomy-assisted endoscopic removal (LAER) of gastrointestinal foreign bodies (FBs) with traditional enterotomy, and to determine which factors affected the ability to remove FBs., Study Design: Retrospective observational study., Sample Population: Dogs and cats (n = 81) with gastrointestinal FBs., Methods: Dogs and cats were divided into Group 1 (LAER, n = 40) and Group 2 (Enterotomy, n = 41). The localization and characteristics of the FBs (sharp or blunt; discrete or linear; single or multiple) were evaluated statistically to identify the factors that affected the ability of LAER to remove, partially or completely, the FBs (χ 2 test). The length of the postoperative stay, postoperative analgesia, and resumption of spontaneous feeding were compared between groups (Mann-Whitney U-test). Short-term follow up (14 days) was recorded., Results: Laparotomy-assisted endoscopic removal allowed complete or partial removal of FBs in 35/40 dogs and cats, regardless of the characteristics or the localization of the FBs. The presence of intestinal wall damage (p = .043) was associated with the conversion to an enterotomy. Group 1 required a shorter postoperative hospital stay (p = .006), less need for analgesia (p < .001), and experienced a faster resumption of spontaneous feeding (p = .012), and similar complication rate to Group 2., Conclusion: Laparotomy-assisted endoscopic removal resulted in a faster postoperative recovery when compared with an enterotomy. The FBs' characteristics or localization did not affect the efficacy of the technique to remove FBs., Clinical Significance: Laparotomy-assisted endoscopic removal allows the removal of a variety of FBs, avoiding intestinal incision and resulting in a fast postoperative recovery., (© 2024 The Author(s). Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To describe the technique for anastomosis of the caudal thoracic duct (TD) to the 10th or 11th intercostal vein (ICV) using a microvascular anastomotic coupler (MAC) device in dogs and assess patency of the anastomosis on days 0 and 30., Study Design: Experimental study., Sample Population: Six adult Beagle dogs., Methods: Under general anesthesia, fluoroscopic popliteal lymphangiography was performed and the TD identified. A right ninth or 10th intercostal thoracotomy was performed. Using an operating microscope, the TD and the 10th or 11th ICV were isolated, ligated, and anastomosed using a 1.5 or 2.0 mm MAC. Fluoroscopic popliteal lymphangiography was repeated immediately after surgery and on day 30., Results: The anastomosis was successful and lymphangiography documented flow into the azygos vein in all six dogs immediately after surgery. At day 30, the anastomosis was patent in four of six dogs. In two dogs, flow through the anastomosis was obstructed due to kinking of the ICV just cranial to the MAC., Conclusion: Anastomosis of the TD and ICV using a MAC was feasible and was shown to maintain patency up to 30 days. When performing the anastomosis, care should be taken to ensure the ICV is not kinked by the MAC., Clinical Significance: Direct anastomosis of the TD and ICV may have application for treatment of idiopathic chylothorax in dogs by maintaining flow from the abdominal lymphatics to the central venous circulation and thereby preventing the stimulus for collateral circulation and persistent chylous effusion. Further investigation is warranted to assess the efficacy of this technique in dogs affected with idiopathic chylothorax., (© 2024 The Author(s). Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To describe a novel surgical technique for the ventral stabilization of the orbit after inferior orbitectomy by using a sling suture and report outcomes in three dogs., Animals: A 7-year-old male neutered Swiss shepherd, a 4-year-old female neutered golden retriever and a 9-year-old female neutered Rhodesian ridgeback., Study Design: Short case series., Methods: All dogs presented with caudal unilateral maxillary masses. Surgical resection necessitated a caudal maxillectomy and inferior orbitectomy with a combined dorsolateral and intraoral approach. A sling suture was used to support the globe. A nylon suture was placed rostrally through the osteotomized maxilla and caudally through the osteotomized zygomatic arch via predrilled holes. The suture was tightened until the position of the globe subjectively appeared normal and was secured with a surgeon's knot. The periorbita was secured over the nylon suture with poliglecaprone suture material in a simple interrupted or continuous pattern. The surgical approach was routinely closed., Results: Follow-up ranged from 7 to 63 days. The surgical wounds healed uneventfully, and no postoperative complications associated with the stabilization technique were noted. No orbital deviation was noted and the zygomatic regions appeared subjectively symmetrical., Conclusion: The nylon sling suture provided a quick, easy, safe and effective technique to stabilize the ventral orbit during a combined maxillectomy and orbitectomy in dogs., (© 2024 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To determine the feasibility of open cholangioscopy using disposable flexible endoscopes in canine cadavers and describe the surgical approach., Study Design: Ex vivo experimental cadaveric study., Sample Population: Eight canine cadavers., Methods: Cadavers ranging from 5.8 to 43.8 kg underwent open transcholecystic cholangioscopy using a disposable flexible endoscope with a 3.8 mm outer diameter and 1.2 mm working channel and the surgical approach was described. The most distal anatomical region of the biliary tree towards the duodenal papilla that was visualized with the endoscope was recorded in each cadaver. A 2.7 mm rigid endoscope and a 1.9 mm flexible endoscope were also trialed and findings recorded. Endoscopic tools were trialed and their usage recorded., Results: The disposable flexible endoscope was feasible for visualization of the junction of the common bile duct, cystic duct, and hepatic ducts in all eight dogs. Cholangioscopy using a 2.7 mm rigid endoscope did not provide further distal visualization. The 1.9 mm flexible endoscope was able to traverse down to the level of the major duodenal papilla in a 43.8 kg cadaver. Use of certain endoscopic tools can be considered through the disposable flexible endoscope although fluid instillation was affected., Conclusion: A 3.8 mm disposable flexible endoscope could be placed through an open transcholecystic approach to provide intraluminal endoscopic evaluation up to the level of the junction of the common bile duct, cystic duct, and hepatic ducts in dogs without cholecystic disease., Clinical Significance: Open transcholecystic cholangioscopy with a disposable flexible endoscope could provide a low-cost diagnostic and therapeutic tool in cases of obstructive biliary disease up to the level of the common bile duct., (© 2024 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To compare the mechanical behavior of straight (STRT) and pre-bent (BENT) I-Loc angle-stable interlocking nails (AS-ILN) used for stabilization of canine mid-diaphyseal tibial fractures., Study Design: In vitro experimental study., Sample Population: Tibial gap fracture models (n = 5/group)., Methods: Tibial models simulating a comminuted mid-diaphyseal fracture were stabilized with either a STRT or BENT I-Loc AS-ILN. Bent nails were contoured to match the 10° tibial recurvatum of a mid-size dog. Constructs were subjected to cyclic eccentric compressive loads followed by ramp load until failure. Construct compliance, maximum compressive load and resistive torque, yield load and angular deformation at 450 N were statistically compared using t-tests (p < .05). Failure modes were described., Results: Compliance was 45% lower in BENT than STRT groups (p < .0001). Constructs in the BENT group sustained ~20% and 34% greater maximum and yield loads, respectively, than STRT constructs. Maximum resistive torques were similar between groups (p = .16). At 450 N, sagittal plane angular deformation increased from 0° to 4° in procurvatum (STRT group) and decreased from 10° to 8° in recurvatum (BENT group-p < .0001). Construct yield failure occurred at the nail isthmus in both groups., Conclusion: These results demonstrated that, in a tibial gap fracture model, pre-bending I-Loc AS-ILNs provided mechanical advantages by increasing their ability to resist bending resulting from eccentric compressive loads., Clinical Significance: Pre-bending may reduce the occurrence of tibial nail yield failure. Surgeons should therefore consider pre-bending tibial I-Loc nails to match the bone anatomical recurvatum prior to implantation., (© 2024 The Author(s). Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Gaining insights into the opinions and attitudes of veterinarians is essential for enhancing the sterilization rate, given their influential role in guiding pet owners. This study investigated the attitudes and practices of Thai veterinarians concerning surgical sterilization in dogs and cats. The survey was conducted from August 2022 to December 2022 and distributed through online and on-site questionnaires across all regions of Thailand. Seven hundred twenty-four veterinarians participated. A strong inclination toward sterilization for population control with a notable preference for female animals was revealed. The factors related to the necessity of sterilization in the opinion of Thai veterinarians were gender, age of veterinarians, and animal sex (P<0.05). Male veterinarians tended to assign less importance to sterilization, especially for male dogs (OR = 0.824), compared to their female counterparts. Older veterinarians tended to prioritize sterilization less than younger ones (OR = 0.985). Regarding animal's sex, a preference for sterilizing females over males in both dogs and cats (OR = 0.291) was observed. Encouraging sterilization should be promoted equally among veterinarians of both genders, with particular emphasis on older male veterinary practitioners. Most veterinarians recommended sterilization between 4 and 6 months for female cats and 7-10 months for male cats, male dogs and female dogs. Overall, mean agreement scores for prepubertal gonadectomy were significantly higher (P<0.05) for female dogs and cats, and the only significant factor associated with these scores was the animal's sex. Veterinarians expressed more disagreement with prepubertal sterilization in males compared to females, with an OR of 0.33. There were some concerns in prepubertal sterilization such as growth and development problems, anesthesia risks, and urinary tract disorders. These insights observed in Thailand hold potential implications for other countries facing similar challenges in effectively managing pet overpopulation., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None of the authors has any other financial or personal relationships that could inappropriately influence or bias the content of the paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective:  To report the use of a Lateral Epicondylar Anatomical Plate for the management of humeral condylar fractures (HCF) in dogs., Study Design:  Medical records of dogs with HCF stabilized using the Lateral Epicondylar Anatomical Plate at six UK veterinary referral centres between April 2018 and February 2021 were reviewed. Long-term follow-up (>6 months) was obtained via owner questionnaire, which incorporated the Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs clinical metrology instrument., Results:  Sixty-two HCF were treated in 61 dogs (44 lateral condylar fractures [LCF] and 18 intracondylar (T/Y) fractures [ICF]). Fifty-one dogs were Spaniels or Spaniel crossbreeds. Intraoperative contouring of the plate was required for one dog-a French Bulldog. Postoperative complications occurred in 14/42 LCF and 6/18 ICF; overall there were 14 minor, 8 major, and 2 catastrophic complications. On final follow-up imaging, there was evidence of partial or complete osseous continuity of the condylar part of the fracture 32/53 HCF (24/39 LCF and 8/14 ICF) and lateral epicondylar part of the fracture in 53/53 HCF (39/39 LCF and 14/14 ICF). At final reexamination, 20/28 dogs with LCF and 5/13 dogs with ICF were not lame and the remaining dogs demonstrated mild lameness. According to the owner questionnaire, 17/17 dogs with LCF and 8/10 dogs with ICF returned to full limb use and median Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs scores were 2/52 for LCF and 6.5/52 for ICF., Conclusion:  The Lateral Epicondylar Anatomical Plate can be used successfully for the surgical stabilization of HCF in dogs., Competing Interests: M.B.W. is Clinical Research and Development Director at Fusion Implants. This had no effect on the collection, reporting, or interpretation of the data reported. All implants were purchased from Fusion Implants by the participating clinics in this study. Fusion Implants provided initial support to help make contact with participating clinics, after which the lead author was responsible for maintaining contact and data collection., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Objective:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the stress changes in the radii beneath the locking plates (LP) of dogs implanted with LP using finite element analysis (FEA)., Study Design:  The study included radii harvested from eight dogs. After computed tomography (CT) scans of the forelimb, the articular surface of the radius was fixed using resin. Material tests were conducted to identify the yield and fracture points and for verification with FEA. The CT data of the radius were imported into FEA software. The radii were classified into three groups based on the placement of the LP (nonplate placement, intact group; 1 mm above the radial surface, LP + 1 mm group; 3 mm above the radial surface, LP + 3 mm group). Equivalent, maximum, and minimum principal stresses and minimum principal strain were measured after FEA at the radial diaphysis beneath the plate., Results:  In shell elements, the LP + 1 mm and LP + 3 mm groups showed a significantly lower maximum principal stress compared with the intact group. In solid elements, the LP + 1 mm and LP + 3 mm groups showed a significantly higher equivalent stress and a significantly lower maximum principal stress compared with the intact group., Conclusion:  When an axial load is applied to the radius, LP placement reduces the tension stress on the cortical bone of the radius beneath the plate, possibly related to implant-induced osteoporosis and bone formation in the cortical bone beneath the plate., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

The aim of this study was to develop a novel surgical technique for stifle arthrodesis in dogs using a semicircular saw for tibial and femoral ostectomies through a medial approach. Ten pelvic limbs from five canine cadavers underwent stifle arthrodesis. Prior to the surgical procedure, the limbs were radiographed to rule out musculoskeletal abnormalities. Additionally, the radiographs were used for surgical planning. For the tibial ostectomy, the center of the intercondylar eminences, the cranial limit of the tibial plateau, and the caudal cortex of the tibia were used as landmarks. In the femur, the groove of the insertion of the long digital extensor tendon and the caudal portion of the femoral cortex served as references. The most significant iatrogenic injury during the surgical procedures was the complete rupture of the long digital extensor tendon during the tibial cut in one of the stifles. Dome ostectomies facilitated interfragmentary contact, allowing for adjustment of the angulation between the fragments without the need for additional ostectomies or osteotomies. The medial approach provided a clear view of intra-articular structures without causing extensive damage to surrounding tissues. After the procedures, the limbs were radiographed to calculate angular measurements, and the final angulation (mean) of the knee joints was 134.7 ± 11°., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To biomechanically evaluate the stability of internal fixation methods for femoral neck fractures in small-breed dogs. Furthermore, the possibility of replacing the headed screw with fully threaded headless cannulated screws in the fixation method was assessed., Methods: The study was conducted from December 12, 2023, to February 7, 2024. A total of 18 femurs from 9 canine cadavers were used in this study. After a simple neck fracture was created, in group A (n = 6), the fracture was stabilized with three 1.1-mm parallel Kirschner wires (K-wires). In group B (n = 6), a 3.0-mm partially threaded cannulated screw and an antirotation pin were used. In group C (n = 6), a 2.5-mm fully threaded headless cannulated screw and an antirotation pin were used. A mechanical test was conducted to apply a single axial compressive load to the femoral head., Results: 9 adult small-breed dogs weighing 3.6 to 8.3 kg (mean ± SD; 5.9 ± 1.6). The mean maximum failure load was highest in group C (495 ± 81 N), followed by group B (454 ± 50.4 N), and then group A (222 ± 21.6 N). Significant differences in maximum failure load were observed between groups A and B as well as groups A and C but not between groups B and C., Conclusion: The use of fully threaded headless cannulated screws presents a promising method for internal fixation of canine femoral neck fractures., Clinical Relevance: To demonstrate the potential stability and reliability of fully threaded headless cannulated screws.

Objective: To compare the efficacy and clinical outcomes of computed tomography (CT)-based virtual surgical planning (VSP) and a three-dimensional (3D)-printed, patient-specific reduction system to conventional indirect reduction techniques for diaphyseal tibial fractures stabilized using minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) in dogs., Study Design: A prospective clinical study with a historic control cohort., Sample Population: Dogs undergoing MIPO stabilization of diaphyseal tibial fractures using a custom 3D-printed reduction system (3D-MIPO; n = 15) or conventional indirect reduction techniques (c-MIPO; n = 14)., Methods: Dogs were prospectively enrolled to the 3D-MIPO group and CT scans were used to design and fabricate a custom 3D-printed reduction system to facilitate MIPO. Medical records were searched to identify dogs for the c-MIPO group. Pre-, intra- and postoperative parameters were compared between groups., Results: The duration from presentation until surgery was 23 h longer in the 3D-MIPO group (p = .002). Fewer intraoperative fluoroscopic images were acquired (p < .001) and mean surgical duration was 34 min shorter in the 3D-MIPO group (p = .014). Median postoperative tibial length, frontal alignment, and sagittal alignment were within 4 mm, 3° and 3°, respectively, of the contralateral tibia in both groups and did not differ between reduction groups (p > .1). Postoperative complications occurred in 27% and 14% of fractures in the 3D-MIPO and c-MIPO groups, respectively., Conclusion: Both reduction methods yielded comparable results. Although the preoperative planning and guide preparation was time consuming, surgery times were shorter and fluoroscopy use was less in the 3D-MIPO group., Clinical Significance: VSP and the custom 3D-printed reduction system facilitated efficient MIPO., (© 2024 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To determine the influence of arthroscopy and injection volume on post-procedure intra-articular (IA) injection extravasation., Study Design: Ex vivo prospective study., Sample Population: A total of 40 paired canine cadaver forelimbs., Methods: After radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scans with three-dimensional (3D) digital bone model reconstructions, elbows were randomly assigned to the arthroscopy or control group and randomly assigned to receive an IA injection of 2 or 4 mL of contrast. Elbow arthroscopy was performed on assigned specimens, followed by IA injections of contrast in all elbows, and imaging was repeated. 3D digital model volumes were compared. Images were interpreted and scored for extravasation by a radiologist unaware of treatment and volume assignments., Results: Based on CT images and regardless of treatment group, IA injections of 4 mL resulted in a mean extravasation score of 2.25 (SD 0.97) versus 1.55 (SD 1.05) (p = .02) for 2 mL IA injections. The change in 3D model volumes after IA injections was a mean of 13.2 cm 3 (SD 5.85) after 4 mL injections, compared to 6.97 cm 3 (SD 6.28) (p = .003) after 2 mL injections. On radiographic evaluation, but not CT, the mean extravasation scores were 2.45 (SD 1.15) for the arthroscopy group and 1.25 (SD 0.79) for the control group (p < .001)., Conclusion: A larger volume of IA injection resulted in higher CT extravasation scores and larger 3D volumes regardless of arthroscopic treatment., Clinical Significance: IA injections performed immediately after arthroscopy resulted in 50% or less extravasation, especially with a smaller IA injection volume., (© 2024 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: The objectives of the study were to compare the clinical efficacy and adverse effects of two analgesic protocols consisting of bupivacaine liposome injectable solution (BLIS) and 0.5% bupivacaine and fentanyl for postsurgical analgesia in dogs undergoing limb amputation., Study Design: Randomized, double-blind, prospective, controlled, intent-to-treat, clinical noninferiority trial., Animals: Forty client-owned dogs., Methods: Dogs undergoing amputation were randomly assigned to either the BLIS or control group. Postoperative pain, sedation, nausea, and amount eaten were assessed using appropriate scales at 6, 12, 18, and 24 h by trained individuals blinded to the treatment protocol. Rescue analgesia was provided for Glasgow composite measure pain scale (short form) (CMPS-SF) scores of 5 or above. Clients were requested to pain score their dogs at home using a visual analogue scale (VAS) for 48 h following discharge., Results: Forty dogs completed this study (20 control dogs and 20 BLIS dogs). The BLIS and control groups were equivalent for sedation, nausea, amount eaten, and pain, at all time periods except at 6 h (p < .01), when the BLIS group pain score was lower., Conclusion: The BLIS provided equivalent analgesia with fewer adverse effects than fentanyl constant rate infusion (CRI) following limb amputation. Rescue analgesia was provided to five dogs in the BLIS group and four in the control group, and there was no statistical difference. Nausea scores did not differ statistically., Clinical Significance: As BLIS provides equivalent analgesia, this may allow for decreased reliance on opioids in the immediate postoperative period., (© 2024 The Authors. Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of a three-dimensional (3D)-printed, patient-specific reduction system for aligning diaphyseal tibial fractures stabilized using minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO)., Study Design: Prospective clinical trial., Sample Population: Fifteen client owned dogs., Methods: Virtual 3D models of both pelvic limbs were created. Pin guides were designed to conform to the proximal and distal tibia. A reduction bridge was designed to align the pin guides based on the guides' spatial location. Guides were 3D printed, sterilized, and applied, in conjunction with transient application of a circular fixator, to facilitate indirect fracture realignment before plate application. Alignment of the stabilized tibiae was assessed using postoperative computed tomography scans., Results: Mean duration required for virtual planning was 2.5 h and a mean of 50.7 h elapsed between presentation and surgery. Guide placement was accurate with minor median discrepancies in translation and frontal, sagittal, and axial plane positioning of 2.9 mm, 3.6°, 2.7°, and 6.8°, respectively. Application of the reduction system restored mean tibial length and frontal, sagittal, and axial alignment within 1.7 mm, 1.9°, 1.7°, and 4.5°, respectively, of the contralateral tibia., Conclusion: Design and fabrication of a 3D-printed, patient-specific fracture reduction system is feasible in a relevant clinical timeline. Intraoperative pin-guide placement was reasonably accurate with minor discrepancies compared to the virtual plan. Custom 3D-printed reduction system application facilitated near-anatomic or acceptable fracture reduction in all dogs., Clinical Significance: Virtual planning and fabrication of a 3D-printing patient-specific fracture reduction system is practical and facilitated acceptable, if not near-anatomic, fracture alignment during MIPO., (© 2024 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Background: Surgery such as ovariectomy causes an inflammatory and oxidative stress. This study was designed to evaluate endogenous tocopherol levels in response to surgical oxidative stress induced by abdominal surgery (ovariectomy) in thirty-two juvenile female dogs. The dogs received meloxicam before surgery (0.2 mg/kg SC) and after surgery (0.1 mg/kg OS every 24 h), 0.03 mg/kg of atropine sulfate (IM), and propofol 4 mg/kg intravenously (IV). General anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane. Physiological, hematological and biochemical parameters, malondialdehyde (MDA) and α-, δ-, γ-tocopherols were evaluated at baseline, 36 and 48 h after surgery., Results: The physiological parameters remained within normal ranges. Blood glucose concentration increased, while the albumin levels decreased after surgery. Rescue analgesia was not required. MDA levels increased above the baseline at 36 and 48 h after surgery (P < 0.001). The α-, δ-, and γ-tocopherol concentrations decreased from baseline at 36 and 48 h after surgery (P < 0.001)., Conclusions: Surgery in juvenile female dogs revealed oxidative, increased MDA concentrations, reduced tocopherol levels, and had a clinically insignificant influence on homeostasis., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Objective:  The aim of this study was to perform gait analysis using a pressure-sensitive walkway in dogs submitted to high (total) or low amputation (partial) of one forelimb or hindlimb., Study Design:  A total of 39 dogs met the inclusion criteria. The reasons for the amputations were motor vehicle accidents in 38 dogs and possible limb malformation in 1 dog. The amputee dogs were divided into four groups: G1 ( n  = 10)-high forelimb; G2 ( n  = 10)-low forelimb; G3 ( n  = 9)-high hindlimb; and G4 ( n  = 10)-low hindlimb. For kinetic evaluation, the dogs were walked across a pressure-sensitive walkway., Results:  In dogs with forelimb amputation, the percentage of body weight (%BW) distribution on the contralateral forelimb was 50.7% in cases of high amputation and 55.5% in cases of low amputation, while the %BW distribution on the hindlimbs, mainly in the ipsilateral hindlimb, was 27.9% in cases of high amputation and 27.1% in cases of low amputation. In cases of high amputation of the hindlimb, the %BW distribution was 71.5% on the forelimbs and 29.7% on the contralateral hindlimb, while in cases of low amputation, the distribution was mainly for the contralateral hindlimb and ipsilateral forelimb. No statistical difference was noted between the amputation levels, except for the contralateral limb in cases of low and high amputation of the hindlimbs concerning the overload percentage and %BW distribution., Conclusion:  The amputation level of one forelimb did not influence the %BW distribution; however, in the hindlimb, this was higher for the contralateral limb in dogs submitted to high amputation., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Objective:  The aim of this study was to report postoperative complications and long-term outcomes following transcondylar screw placement for humeral intracondylar fissure (HIF)., Study Design:  It was a retrospective single-centre case series. Medical records (2018-2022) were reviewed for dogs with HIF treated with transcondylar screw placement. Data collected included signalment, concurrent orthopaedic disease, partial or complete HIF, surgeon, surgical approach, surgical technique and implant type, transcondylar screw angulation, postoperative complications and outcomes. Long-term outcome was assessed with owner questionnaire, orthopaedic examination and follow-up radiography. Statistical analysis was performed to identify risk factors predisposing to a complication or a poor outcome., Results:  Forty-seven dogs (57 elbows) met the inclusion criteria; long-term follow-up was available in 41 dogs (50 elbows). Minor and major medical complications were noted in seven and three elbows respectively. The total complication rate was 17.5%. Increasing age was significantly associated with a reduced risk of postoperative complications ( p  = 0.0051). No other risk factors were identified. A postoperative complication was not associated with a less than full outcome ( p  = 0.5698)., Conclusion:  Transcondylar screw placement for HIF is associated with a low complication rate and good outcome., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

The use of simulators in veterinary education has been increasing over the last few years. This is fundamental for surgical classes, as simulators can provide a better learning environment for the students. Two procedures commonly taught in veterinary surgical practical classes are nephrectomy and cystotomy. However, the lack of simulators for use in these classes limits the training options to the use of cadavers, which have a number of associated disadvantages, including the potential for autolysis. The aim of this study was to develop and assess the value of a simple nephrectomy and cystotomy simulator that could replace the use of cadavers in surgical practical classes. The simulator, which represented the abdominal cavity, bladder, kidneys, ureter, vessels and adipose tissue, was constructed by using synthetic materials. To evaluate its usefulness and acceptance by the students, the learning outcomes and student satisfaction, for both the simulator and an ethically sourced dog cadaver, were compared. The students completed a Likert scale questionnaire, and the answers were evaluated by using the Diagnostic Content Validation (DCV) model. The simulator was well accepted by the students, with the best scores achieved for the ureter divulsion and ligation procedures; good results were also recorded for the kidney vessel ligature and urinary bladder suture practice. The scores showed that the simulator provided an acceptable experience during the training process and increased the confidence of the students in performing the procedure., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Objective: To investigate the impact of surgery resident training on surgery duration in tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) and evaluate whether surgery duration differs with each year of residency training., Study Design: Retrospective medical record review., Animals: A total of 256 client-owned dogs underwent TPLO., Methods: Records of dogs that underwent TPLO between August 2019 and August 2022 were reviewed. The effects of the surgeon (faculty/resident) and the procedure (arthrotomy/arthroscopy) on TPLO surgery duration were examined with an analysis of variance, and geometric least squares means (GLSM) were compared. A linear mixed effects model (LMM) was fitted to quantify fixed and random effects., Results: Four faculty surgeons performed 74 (29%) TPLOs, while 10 residents performed 182 (71%) TPLOs under the direct supervision of a faculty surgeon. All TPLOs were conducted with arthrotomy (109; 43%) or arthroscopy (147; 57%). Overall, residents (GLSM, 153 min) required 54% more surgery duration than faculty surgeons (GLSM, 99 min). Surgery duration among first-year residents (GLSM, 170 min) was 15% longer than second- (GLSM, 148 min) and third-year (GLSM, 147 min) residents, whereas the duration did not differ statistically between second- and third-year residents. Arthroscopy, meniscal tear treatment, surgery on the right stifle, and increasing patient weight were also associated with longer surgery duration., Conclusion: The duration of TPLO surgery significantly decreased after the first year of residency, but did not decrease afterward., Clinical Significance: The results will aid with resource allocation, curricula planning, and cost management associated with resident training., (© 2024 The Authors. Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To compare the effects of constant rate infusions (CRI) of fentanyl or dexmedetomidine, combined with lidocaine and ketamine, on cardiovascular response during surgery, sevoflurane requirement and postoperative pain in dogs undergoing mastectomy., Study Design: Prospective, randomized, blinded, clinical trial., Animals: A total of 29 female dogs with mammary tumors., Methods: Premedication consisted of intramuscular acepromazine and morphine. General anesthesia was induced with intravenous propofol and maintained with sevoflurane. Dogs were randomized to be administered intravenous DLK [dexmedetomidine 1 μg kg -1 loading dose (LD) and 1 μg kg -1 hour -1 ; lidocaine 2 mg kg -1 LD and 3 mg kg -1 hour -1 ; ketamine 1 mg kg -1 LD and 0.6 mg kg -1 hour -1 ; n = 14] or FLK (fentanyl 5 μg kg -1 LD and 9 μg kg -1 hour -1 ; same doses of lidocaine and ketamine; n = 15) during anesthesia. Cardiorespiratory variables and end-tidal sevoflurane (Fe'Sevo) were recorded during surgery. The number of dogs administered ephedrine to treat arterial hypotension [mean arterial pressure (MAP) < 60 mmHg] was recorded. Meloxicam was administered to both groups. Postoperative pain and rescue analgesia requirement were assessed for 24 hours using the short form of the Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale. Data were compared using a mixed effects model or a Mann-Whitney test., Results: More dogs required ephedrine in FLK than in DLK (67% versus 7%). Heart rate was not significantly different between groups, whereas lower values of MAP (p ≤ 0.01) and Fe'Sevo (p = 0.018) were observed in FLK than in DLK. Rescue analgesia was administered to 2/15 dogs in FLK and 0/14 dogs in DLK., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Based on the cardiovascular response during surgery, intraoperative infusions of FLK and DLK provided adequate antinociception. Infusion of DLK provided greater stability of blood pressure. Both protocols resulted in minimal need for additional analgesia within 24 hours postoperatively., (Copyright © 2024 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Evaluate whether total elbow replacement (TER) through a lateral approach is accurate and stable., Animals: 12 skeletally mature large-breed dog cadavers were used., Methods: Limb alignment, elbow joint motion, and collateral ligament laxity were evaluated preoperatively. The order of surgery (left or right) and the approach (lateral or medial) were randomly selected for TER in each dog. The other approach was used in the contralateral elbow. Intraoperative technical difficulties, duration of surgery, and anatomic complications were recorded. Limb alignment, elbow joint motion, collateral ligament laxity, and prosthetic component alignment were evaluated after surgery. Data were collected from June 11 to 15, 2023., Results: The duration of surgery using a lateral or medial approach did not differ (P = .499). Anatomic complications were not observed. The lateral approach resulted in 8° more elbow extension (P = .003), 1.58° less lateral collateral ligament constraint (P = .033), 2.80° less medial collateral ligament constraint (P = .002), 4.38° less frontal plane constraint (P = .004), 8° greater humeral component inclination (P = .033), and 5.6° greater radioulnar component varus (P = .001) than the medial approach. Varus of the radius, mechanical axis deviation, limb supination, elbow flexion, mediolateral humeral component and craniocaudal radioulnar component orientation did not differ among joints operated using a lateral or medial approach. In normal cadaveric elbows, a lateral approach for TER appears feasible, producing equivalent limb alignment, joint laxity, and joint motion to normal elbows and to TER placed using a medial approach., Clinical Relevance: In dogs, TER can be performed using a lateral surgical approach.

Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) has been commonly performed in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament disease (CCLD) since the introduction by Slocum and Slocum (1993). To reduce cranial tibial thrust the TPLO technique aims for a postoperative tibial plateau angle (TPA) of 5-6.5°. In recent years studies have shown that a postoperative TPA below 5° could be beneficial regarding stifle stability or meniscal load. Dogs with CCLD that were treated with TPLO, were examined preoperatively, six weeks, three and six months postoperatively with gait analysis and grouped according to their postoperative TPA. The aims of study was (1) to evaluate if dogs with a postoperative TPA below 5° would have a faster limb function recovery up to six months postoperatively as measured objectively with ground reaction forces (GRFs) and (2) to determine whether the postoperative TPA correlates with the outcome measurements. Dogs with TPA <5° showed no faster limb function recovery postoperatively up to six months as measured with peak vertical force (PVF) or vertical impulse (VI) (p > 0.05). No correlation for the postoperative TPA <5° on GRFs was demonstrated. But the postoperative TPA showed a significant correlation with the symmetry indices of PVF (SIPVF) and VI (SIVI) for all dogs (>5° and <5° TPA together), indicating that with lower postoperative TPA dogs had a more symmetrical gait in hindlimbs SIPVF (r = 0.144, p < 0.05) and SIVI (r = 0.189, p < 0.01). The study indicates that a lower postoperative TPA could be beneficial regarding hindlimb symmetry indices of GRFs., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None of the authors has any financial or personal relationships that could inappropriately influence or bias the content of the paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Background: Biomedtrix BFX ® cementless total hip replacement (THR) requires the use of femoral broaches to prepare a press-fit envelope within the femur for subsequent stem insertion. Current broaches contain teeth that crush and remove cancellous bone; however, they are not particularly well-suited for broaching sclerotic (corticalized) cancellous bone. In this study, three tooth designs [Control, TG1 (additional V-grooves), TG2 (diamond tooth pattern)] were evaluated with a quasi-static testing protocol and polyurethane test blocks simulating normal and sclerotic bone. To mimic clinical broaching, a series of five sequential broach insertions were used to determine cumulative broaching energy (J) and peak loads during broach insertion. To determine the effect of broach tooth design on THR stem insertion, a BFX ® stem was inserted into prepared test blocks and insertion and subsidence energy and peak loads were determined., Results: Broach tooth design led to significant differences in broaching energy and peak broaching loads in test blocks of both densities. In low density test blocks, TG1 required the lowest cumulative broaching energy (10.76 ±0.29 J), followed by Control (12.18 ±1.20 J) and TG2 (16.66 ±0.78 J) broaches. In high density test blocks, TG1 required the lowest cumulative broaching energy (32.60 ±2.54 J) as compared to Control (33.25 ±2.16 J) and TG2 (59.97 ±3.07 J).  During stem insertion and subsidence testing, stem insertion energy for high density test blocks prepared with Control broaches was 14.53 ± 0.81 J, which was significantly lower than blocks prepared with TG1 (22.53 ± 1.04 J) or TG2 (19.38 ± 3.00 J) broaches. For stem subsidence testing in high density blocks, TG1 prepared blocks required the highest amount of energy to undergo subsidence (14.49 ± 0.49 J), which was significantly greater than test blocks prepared with Control (11.09 ±0.09 J) or TG2 (12.57 ± 0.81 J) broaches., Conclusions: The additional V-grooves in TG1 broaches demonstrated improved broaching performance while also generating press-fit envelopes that were more resistant to stem insertion and subsidence. TG1 broaches may prove useful in the clinical setting; however additional studies that more closely simulate clinical broach impaction are necessary prior to making widespread changes to THR broaches., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to evaluate and characterize different methods to achieve interfragmentary compression during tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO)., Study Design:  TPLO was performed in 20 canine tibia models (Sawbones, Vashon, Washington, United States) using 3D-printed guides for standardization. Interfragmentary compression was assessed using pressure-sensitive films (Prescale, Fujifilm, Atherstone, United Kingdom). Seven compression methods were tested: (1) Kern bone holding forceps clamping the craniodistal aspect of the TPLO plate to the caudal aspect of the tibia (K); (2) using the distal TPLO plate dynamic compression hole (P); (3) pointed bone reduction forceps engaging the caudal aspect of the proximal bone fragment and the cranial aspect of the tibial crest (F); (4) K + P; (5) K + F; (6) F + P; and (7) K + F + P. Five measurements were obtained for each method, and each bone model was used for two measurements (single method, ± plate). The interfragmentary surface was digitalized and divided into quadrants for standardization and pixel density calculation: Q1, craniomedial; Q2, craniolateral; Q3, caudomedial; and Q4, caudolateral. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc tests were used for statistical analysis., Results:  Mean pressures per quadrant differed significantly between methods ( p  < 0.001). Methods K, F, and P produced more craniomedial, craniolateral, and caudal compression, respectively. Method K resulted in loss of caudal compression ( p  < 0.001). Method F + P provided the most even distribution of high interfragmentary compression forces. The addition of method K to this construct (K + F + P) marginally increased cranial compression ( p  = 0.189 for Q1; p  < 0.001 for Q2), but reduced compression caudally ( p  < 0.001)., Conclusion:  Method F + P provided more even interfragmentary compression. If method K were used, then combined use with method F + P would be recommended., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To compare the perioperative analgesic effects of an opioid-free (OFA) and an opioid-sparing (OSA) anaesthetic protocol in dogs undergoing laparoscopic ovariectomy., Study Design: Prospective, randomized, blinded, clinical trial., Animals: A group of 28 client-owned dogs., Methods: Dogs were allocated to one of two groups. The OFA group was administered intramuscular (IM) dexmedetomidine 5 μg kg -1 and ketamine 1 mg kg -1 , followed by two intraoperative constant rate infusions (CRIs) of dexmedetomidine (3 μg kg -1 hour -1 ) and lidocaine (1 mg kg -1 loading dose, 2 mg kg -1 hour -1 ). The OSA group was administered IM dexmedetomidine 5 μg kg -1 , ketamine 1 mg kg -1 and methadone 0.2 mg kg -1 , followed by two intraoperative saline CRIs. In both groups, anaesthesia was induced with intravenous (IV) propofol 2 mg kg -1 and diazepam 0.2 mg kg -1 and maintained with isoflurane. Rescue dexmedetomidine (0.5 μg kg -1 ) was administered IV if there was a 20% increase in cardiovascular variables compared with pre-stimulation values. Ketorolac (0.5 mg kg -1 ) was administered IV when the surgery ended. Postoperative analgesia was evaluated using the Short Form-Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale and methadone (0.2 mg kg -1 ) was administered IM if the pain score was ≥ 6/24. Statistical analysis included mixed analysis of variance, Chi-square test and Mann-Whitney U test., Results: There were no significant differences in the intraoperative monitored variables between groups. The OFA group showed a significantly lower intraoperative rescue analgesia requirement (p = 0.016) and lower postoperative pain scores at 3 (p =0.001) and 6 (p < 0.001) hours. No dogs were administered rescue methadone postoperatively., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Although both groups achieved acceptable postoperative pain scores with no need for further intervention, the analgesic efficacy of the OFA protocol was significantly superior to that of the OSA protocol presented and was associated with a lower intraoperative rescue analgesia requirement and early postoperative pain scores., (Copyright © 2024 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To compare the effect of three-dimensional (3D) and two-dimensional (2D) laparoscopy on surgical time and intraoperative complications during cholecystectomies in canine cadavers., Study Design: Experimental prospective study., Animals: Twelve canine cadavers., Methods: The laparoscopic cholecystectomies were performed in canine cadavers with four cannulas and with either 2D or 3D cameras by a single surgeon. The following surgical times were recorded: time from insertion of laparoscopic instruments to first endoclip placement, time from first endoclip placement to second endoclip placement, time from second endoclip placement to complete gall bladder dissection, and total surgical time. The cystic duct length distal to the first endoclip, intraoperative complications, and the amount of liver attached to the gall bladder were also recorded., Results: Time from the insertion of the instruments to the application of the first endoclip was shorter for the 3D group than for the 2D group (p = .016). Other surgical times were not different between groups. There was no difference in the cystic duct length distal to the first endoclip, intraoperative complications, or the amount of liver attachment., Conclusion: Three-dimensional laparoscopy shortened the time from insertion of the laparoscopic instruments to placement of the first endoclip. However, total surgical time was not affected by the type of camera in laparoscopic cholecystectomy., Clinical Significance: Three-dimensional laparoscopy may be beneficial when performing procedures requiring enhanced spatial orientation. However, this technique did not shorten the total surgical time in this cadaveric study. Further studies in a clinical setting are necessary for the optimization of the future use of 3D laparoscopy., (© 2023 The Authors. Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Competing Interests: Disclosure The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.

Objective: To describe a caudomedial instrumental portal for caudal pole meniscectomy (CPM)., Study Design: Experimental ex-vivo study., Sample Population: Ten cadaveric hindlimbs of 10 large breed dogs., Methods: Each hindlimb was used for establishing the caudomedial portal for CPM. The surgical time was recorded. Specimens were disarticulated afterwards, and the completeness of CPM was documented. Iatrogenic injuries to the articular cartilage and the intra- and periarticular structures were assessed., Results: The extent of the CPM (mean ± SD, percentage of the resected medial meniscus) was 29.8 ± 12.9% of the area of the medial meniscus. There were no injuries to the medial collateral ligament or caudal cruciate ligament. The mean iatrogenic articular cartilage injury (IACI) was 3.71 ± 1.78% of the area of the medial meniscus., Conclusion: The establishment of a caudomedial portal for CPM in canine cadavers was feasible and allowed to perform a partial caudal pole meniscectomy., Clinical Significance: A caudomedial portal may be considered for CPM in selected cases when caudal tears cannot be accessed through the standard portals., (© 2023 The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To report the clinical outcomes in toy-breed dogs with atlantoaxial instability (AAI) stabilized with patient-specific 3-D-printed titanium plates or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), both with the assistance of 3-D-printed drill guides., Animals: 15 client-owned dogs undergoing surgical treatment for AAI between January 1, 2020, and October 31, 2022., Methods: The clinical characteristics, diagnostic images, and neurological outcomes of 15 dogs treated for AAI using 3-D-printing technology were reviewed. Postoperative CT images were examined to evaluate the screw placement accuracy in the atlas and axis. Clinical outcomes, including postoperative neurological improvement and screw loosening, were evaluated in dogs treated with a patient-specific titanium plate and those treated with PMMA., Results: Patient-specific titanium plates (7 dogs) and PMMA (8 dogs) were used for AAI stabilization. The mean follow-up period was 15.2 months (range 7 to 22 months). A reduction of the axis without vertebral canal violation was confirmed on postoperative CT in 14 dogs. The mean deviation from the preoperative planning ranged from 0.30 to 1.27 mm at the insertion and exit points of 84 screws using this method. The neurological grade had improved in each dog postoperatively and at the final follow-up. Screw loosening was noted in 4 dogs in the titanium plates groups without neurological deterioration., Clinical Relevance: Patient-specific 3-D-printed drill guides and titanium plates or PMMA are effective for AAI stabilization in toy-breed dogs, providing accurate guidance.

Canine orchiectomy (COE) is one of the most commonly performed procedures in small animal veterinary surgery. The aim of this study was to assess veterinary students' confidence in performing this surgery in relation to their previous surgical experience of the procedure. The hypothesis was that confidence to perform canine orchiectomies among recent veterinary graduates increased when having participated in the procedure as part of practical surgical training. A cross-sectional survey was conducted and included 65 fifth-year veterinary graduate students at the Swedish University of Agriculture in Uppsala, Sweden. The survey investigated how differences in experience of COE affected students' confidence to perform the procedure. Of the responding students, 24.6% had performed the procedure, 47.7% had observed the procedure live, and 27.7% had neither seen nor performed the procedure. They were asked how confident they were to perform the procedure both with and without assistance. Data were compared using a non-parametric test (Mann-Whitney U test). The results showed a statistically significant increase in confidence to perform COEs in the group that had previously performed or observed COE compared with the group that had neither performed nor observed the procedure. In conclusion, veterinary students' participation in COEs significantly contributed to their clinical confidence to perform the procedure.

Objective: To evaluate the indications for, complications of, and surgical outcomes of dogs and cats that were treated with double limb amputations., Animals: 14 dogs and 4 cats that underwent double limb amputations., Procedures: Data collected retrospectively included patient-specific (species, age, weight, breed, sex, existing comorbidities) and amputation-specific (indication for amputation, full or partial limb amputation, associated complications, need for revision surgeries) variables. Owner satisfaction scores were also collected., Results: The most common indication for double amputations was trauma (12/18) patients. Eleven patients had both amputations performed simultaneously. Nine patients had double partial limb amputations versus full limb amputations. Twelve patients underwent bilateral pelvic limb amputations, 4 underwent bilateral thoracic limb amputations, and 2 had 1 pelvic and 1 contralateral thoracic limb amputated. Five patients had reported complications over the course of the follow-up period, and complications for 3 patients were considered major. Revision surgery was reported for 2 animals. Owner satisfaction scores were reported as very satisfied/excellent (14/18), mildly satisfied (3/18), and strongly dissatisfied (1/18). Median time to follow-up was 450 days (range, 85 to 4,380 days)., Clinical Relevance: Double limb amputation may be a viable alternative to advanced limb-sparing procedures or humane euthanasia based on the owner satisfaction data and the relatively low rate of major complications in this study. Future studies should clarify patient selection criteria and differences in function between surgical types.

Background: Deficiencies in vitamin A and D and disorders in the vitamin B complex are often present in people with chronic liver diseases. So far, the serum concentrations of these vitamins have not yet been studied in dogs with congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (EHPSS), who also have some degree of liver dysfunction. The objective was to assess serum vitamin concentrations in dogs with EHPSS from diagnosis to complete closure. A prospective cohort study was performed using ten client-owned dogs with EHPSS, closed after gradual surgical attenuation. Serum concentrations of vitamin A, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, folic acid, cobalamin and methylmalonic acid (MMA) were measured at diagnosis prior to institution of medical therapy, prior to surgery, and three months after gradual attenuation and complete closure of the EHPSS., Results: At diagnosis, median serum concentrations of vitamin A, 25-hydroxyvitamin D and folic acid were 18.2 μg/dL (8.8 - 79.5 μg/dL), 51.8 ng/mL (19.4 - 109.0 ng/mL), and 8.1 μg/L (5.2 - 14.5 μg/L), respectively, which increased significantly postoperatively (88.3 μg/dL (51.6 - 182.2 μg/dL, P=0.005), 89.6 ng/mL (49.3 - >150.0 ng/mL, P =0.005), and 14.8 μg/L (11.5 - 17.7 μg/L, P <0.001), respectively). Median serum cobalamin concentrations were 735.5 ng/L (470 - 1388 ng/L) at diagnosis and did not significantly decrease postoperatively (P =0.122). Both at diagnosis and three months postoperatively 7/10 dogs had hypercobalaminemia., Conclusions: Serum concentrations of vitamin A, 25-hydroxyvitamin D and folic acid significantly increase after surgical attenuation. Nevertheless, persistent hypercobalaminemia is suggestive of ongoing liver dysfunction, despite successful surgery., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

This retrospective study assessed the effect of an intraoral bilateral maxillary nerve block in dogs undergoing surgery for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Records of dogs that underwent BOAS surgery were retrieved. Cases were assigned to Group B or C if a preoperative bilateral maxillary nerve block was performed or not. Type and dose of local anesthetic, inhalant anesthetic minimum alveolar concentration multiples, intraoperative fentanyl and injectable anesthetic use, prevalence of intraoperative hypotension or bradycardia, and postoperative opioids administration, were compared between groups. Sixty-seven cases met the inclusion criteria: 33 were assigned to Group B and 34 to Group C. In Group C, 18 dogs required intraoperative fentanyl ( P = 0.005), and 12 needed injectable anesthetic top-ups ( P = 0.006). Hypotension, or bradycardia, were not different between groups. Bilateral maxillary nerve block reduces intraoperative fentanyl and injectable anesthetic requirement in dogs undergoing BOAS surgery., (Copyright and/or publishing rights held by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.)

Objective: To describe the use of the T'LIFT transabdominal organ retraction device to suspend ovaries during canine laparoscopic ovariectomy (LapOVE) and compare its use to a transabdominal suspension suture (TSS)., Design: Randomized clinical trial., Animals: Client-owned intact bitches (n = 30)., Methods: Dogs were randomly assigned either to group T, in which LapOVE was performed with the T'LIFT, or to group S, in which a TSS was used. Laparoscopic ovariectomy was performed by using a standard two-portal protocol. Signalment (age, weight, body condition score [BCS], fat score of the ovarian pedicle [FSOP]), overall operative time, ovarian resection time, and perioperative complications were compared between groups., Results: No significant differences were found between groups regarding age, weight, BCS, or FSOP. Surgical times were not significantly different between groups. No significant differences in major or minor complications were recorded. Overall operative time was significantly shorter for the last half of the cases compared with the first half, for the overall population, and within each group. Ovarian resection time for the last cases was significantly shorter compared with that for the first ones only in group T., Conclusion: The T'LIFT was used to suspend ovaries for two-portal LapOVE, with no major complications noted. There was no significant difference in surgical times or complications compared with transabdominal suturing., Clinical Significance: The T'LIFT can be considered as an alternative to transabdominal suture for ovarian suspension in dogs undergoing LapOVE., (© 2020 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To evaluate the short- and mid-term effects of tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) and tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) on subsequent meniscal tears., Study Design: Experimental in vivo study., Animals: Purpose-bred beagle dogs (n = 15)., Methods: For each dog, the cranial cruciate ligaments were transected; one limb underwent TTA and the other limb underwent TPLO. Orthopedic and radiographic examinations were performed preoperatively and at 12 and 32 weeks postoperatively. Gross evaluation of the stifle joint was performed after euthanasia at 12 (n = 10) and 32 (n = 5) weeks., Results: Lameness scores were not different between TTA and TPLO limbs at any time point. Radiographic osteoarthritis scores of TTA stifles (1.33 ± 0.49) were higher than TPLO stifles (0.67 ± 0.49) (p = .002) at 12 weeks postoperatively, but there was no difference between groups at 32 weeks postoperatively. Subsequent medial meniscal tears occurred in 6/10 TTA stifles, and 0/10 TPLO stifles at 12 weeks postoperatively and in 5/5 TTA stifles, and 1/5 TPLO stifles at 32 weeks postoperatively. Subsequent lateral meniscal tears occurred in 4/5 TTA stifles at 32 weeks postoperatively. Medial meniscal total gross pathology score was higher in TTA than TPLO stifles. TTA stifles had more articular cartilage damage when compared with TPLO stifles at 32 weeks postoperatively., Conclusion: In this within-dog experimental comparison, subsequent medial meniscal tears and cartilage injury was more prevalent following TTA when compared to TPLO., Clinical Significance: In an experimental model, TPLO protects the medial meniscus and articular cartilage better than TTA in stifles with complete cranial cruciate ligament deficiency., (© 2021 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) has been an effective treatment for human patients with haematological malignancies (Baron & Storb, 2006; Bair et al., 2020; Copelan et al., 2019). However, the optimal pretransplant conditioning treatment is unclear in canine allogeneic HCT. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of total lymphoid irradiation (TLI) with volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for a nonmyeloablative HCT conditioning. Six healthy dogs were treated with 8 or 12 Gy TLI using VMAT. Haematological and physical changes were recorded over 8 weeks. To assess the effect of peripheral lymphocyte condition, lymphocyte subset and proliferative ability were examined. At the end of the experiment, necropsy was performed. All dogs showed mild-to-moderate neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, and these haematological changes resolved spontaneously. One dog treated with 8 Gy TLI developed transient cutaneous infection. No major complication was seen in the other seven dogs. Myelocytes and erythroblast cytopenia of bone marrow were detected in two dogs treated with 12 Gy TLI. This study is the first report of TLI using VMAT in dogs, and results suggest that this regimen is a feasible nonmyeloablative treatment., (© 2021 The Authors Veterinary Medicine and Science Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: The partial or complete cranial cruciate ligament rupture is a common skeletal disease affecting the stifle joint in dogs. The tibial plateau levelling osteotomy, performed with several synthesis systems, changed the approach to its treatment in dogs. The aim of this study was to compare two types of fixation implants, locking compression system and locking system, evaluating radiographically the progression of osteoarthritis of the stifle joint in dogs with complete cranial cruciate ligament deficiency treated surgically with tibial plateau levelling osteotomy. Moreover, we evaluated bone healing and lameness scores to show biomechanical effects by the implant used. Twenty-eight dogs, who met the inclusion criteria, were divided into two groups. Group A: 14 dogs treated using locking compression plates; Group B: 14 dogs treated using locking plates. Radiographic osteoarthritis scores were evaluated up to 1 year following tibial plateau levelling osteotomy. At each visit, animals were clinically and radiographically assessed. Each dog was evaluated before (T0) and after two (T2) and twelve (T12) months after the surgery. At T2 the stage of bone healing was evaluated. The clinical follow up was performed before the surgery and at 10, 15 and 20 days after the surgery, grading the lameness at walk and trot., Results: An increase in osteoarthritis score at T12 versus T0 in both groups was detected. A decrease of the lameness score was observed in Group A versus Group B. The healing score system at T2 showed a lower score in Group A versus Group B., Conclusions: The osteoarthritis score following tibial plateau levelling osteotomy did not differ when comparing the two different fixation systems. The locking compression system allowed a more rapid functional recovery of the limb and a quicker bone healing than the locking system. Locking compression system should be carefully considered for dogs subjected to tibial plateau levelling osteotomy surgery, because it may reduce the recovery time.

Objective: To determine whether ease of access to thoracic structures for performing open-chest cardiopulmonary resuscitation (OC-CPR) differed between fourth and fifth intercostal space (ICS) left lateral thoracotomies in dogs, and to determine if "shingling" improved access for OC-CPR manipulations., Design: Prospective single-blinded study., Setting: Laboratory., Animals: Twelve mixed breed canine cadavers weighing approximately 20 kg., Interventions: Left lateral thoracotomies were performed at the 4th ICS (n = 6) or 5th ICS (n = 6). Shingling at the 4th or 5th ICS, as applicable, was performed after initial data collection and outcomes were reassessed., Measurements and Main Results: Three evaluators blinded to the surgical approach scored the following parameters on a 0 to 10 scale (0 = easiest, 10 = most difficult): ease of access of the phrenicopericardial ligament, ease of pericardial incision, ease of appropriate hand position, ease of aortic access, ease of Rumel tourniquet application, and ease of proper placement of defibrillation paddles. Objective measurements (time to completion or number of attempts) were made for all but ease of pericardial incision and ease of appropriate hand position. Outcomes were reassessed after shingling. The 5th ICS was superior for ease of aortic access (P = 0.042), time to visualization of aorta (P = 0.009), and ease of application of a Rumel tourniquet (P = 0.019). When comparing scores pre- and post-shingling, shingling improved time to visualization of the aorta (P < 0.001), time to placement of Rumel tourniquet (P < 0.001), ease of paddle placement (P = 0.017), and time to paddle placement (P < 0.001)., Conclusions: Either 4th or 5th ICS thoracotomy may provide adequate access to intrathoracic structures pertinent to performing OC-CPR in dogs weighing approximately 20 kg, but 5th ICS was preferred for most manipulations, and shingling improved access for most of the measured parameters., (© 2021 The Authors. Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society.)