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Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is the most important cytokine in the inflammation cascade activation in all tissues and is present in acute and chronic phases of inflammation. By blocking IL-1 binding to target cells, numerous inflammation processes are prevented. The use of autologous conditioned serum rich with IL-1 receptor antagonist protein (IL-1Ra) is a novel treatment method of tendon inflammation in domestic animals and humans. Injections of autologous conditioned serum (ACS) have demonstrated clinical efficacy and safety in animal models and humans in the treatment of osteoarthritis, disc prolapse and muscles and tendons injuries with low side effect. Neutropaenia, reduced white blood cell count, and infections or local irritations are described as side effects of IL-1 antagonist use in humans. Therefore, a study of blood changes in rabbits after local administration of IL-1Ra in the Achilles tendon tissue after iatrogenic inflammation was conducted. Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein was used to prevent and reduce tendon inflammation after longitudinal tenotomy. The study was done on 26 white Californian rabbits, divided into two equal groups consisting of 13 animals each; the experimental interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein (irap) group, and the control group. In the irap group, autologous serum rich with IL-1Ra was used (Orthokine®vet irap, Alfa-Arthro, Croatia). Differences between two groups were considered significant as changes in the blood for certain blood elements atP< 0.01. ThePvalue wasP= 0.0153 for the white blood cells,P= 0.00153 for neutrophils,P= 0.00017 and for platelets. In the control group, an increased platelet count was noticed in 70% of blood samples and a decreased neutrophil count was found in all of the irap group samples at the end of the study in comparison to the initial blood count prior to application.

Peritoneopericardial hernia is a malformation which allows the protrusion of abdominal organs into the pericardial sac. Several methods of herniorrhaphy had been described in human and veterinary medicine, such as the usage of prosthetic patches, allografts and autologous grafts. The purpose of this study was to describe a new technique of herniorrhaphy, which combines two different materials for defect closure (nonautologous-polypropylene mesh and autologous-pericardial flap) in a case of recurrent peritoneopericardial hernia in a dog. A two-year-old, intact female Rhodesian Ridgeback was presented with an eight week history of respiratory problems, occasional coughing, vomiting, lethargy, body mass loss and icteric mucous membrane. The reason for using this technique was tension at hernial ring, which could have caused recurrence of the peritoneopericardial hernia. Polypropylene mesh was used in order to reinforce the herniorrhaphy and an autologous flap served as a barrier against mesh exposure to the epicardial surface. In our opinion, this method is safe with no complications observed, so therefore, it could be a suitable method for peritoneopericardial reherniation repair., Peritoneoperikardijalna kila jest defekt dijafragme koji dopušta prolazak abdominalnih organa u perikardijalnu vreću. Liječenje zahtijeva kirurški zahvat, herniorafiju. Nekoliko je metoda opisano u humanoj i veterinarskoj medicine, poput raznih sintetičkih materijala i mrežica, autolognih i alogenih presadaka. Svrha ovoga rada jest prikaz herniorafije u psa koja obuhvaća dva načina zatvaranja ponovljenog defekta dijafragme, polipropilenskom mrežicom i autolognim perikardijalnim presatkom. Dvije godine stara nekastrirana kuja rodezijskog goniča lavova zaprimljena je zbog povremenih respiratornih problema, kašlja i povraćanja koja su trajala 8 tjedana te letargije, gubitka tjelesne mase i žutice. Razlog primjene herniorafije bila je prevelika napetost okrajaka prstena kile uz veliku mogućnost popuštanja šava herniorafije te povratka bolesnog stanja. Kombinacija umjetnog materijala (mrežice) i autolognog presatka korištena je u svrhu ojačavanja mjesta herniorafije. Ishod zahvata ukazuje da je to prikladna metoda kirurškog liječenja povratka peritoneoperikardijalne kile, a komplikacija i povratka nije bilo.

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common diseases of joints in dogs. It is estimated that as many as 20% of the dog population older than one year is affected by some form of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is a slow, progressive inflammatory syndrome. It is characterized by degeneration of the cartilage, hypertrophy of the bones, changes to the synovial membranes, and painful and stiff joints. Cells within the damaged joints release pro-inflammatory cytokines, which enhance and prolong the inflammatory process. This article focuses on the aetiology, diagnostics, therapy and alternative therapy of osteoarthritis.

Epidural fibrosis is an extradural scar tissue formed after a laminectomy procedure. It is associated with persistent pain after spinal surgery and an increased risk of complications during revision surgery. The aim of this study was to determine the preventive effects of local application of an omental free graft in minimising spinal epidural fibrosis in a rabbit laminectomy model. Twenty two rabbits were randomly divided in two groups, a control group of seven and an experimental group of 15 animals. A dorsal laminectomy at levels L 1 to L 3 was performed on each rabbit of both groups. Prior to the laminectomy procedure, the animals from the experimental group were submitted to a laparotomy in order to obtain the free omental graft. The graft was then applied to the same animal at the dural deffect. All rabbits were euthanised six weeks after surgery and spine segments L 1 to L 3 were removed. Histological sections were evaluated for fibrosis intensity at the laminectomy level, the adhesion degree between dura mater and fibrous tissue and the presence of the foreign body reaction. A statistically sig- nificant correlation was established for the foreign body reaction presence and belonging to the group, which can be explained by the omental effects on inflammation reduction and healing promotion. The degree of adhesion between the dura mater and fibrous tissue and the intensity of the fibr tissue at the laminectomy level were lower in the experimental group although the differences were not statistically significant. The use of free omental grafts is thus a promising technique in epidural fibrosis prevention.

The current study describes the use of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein (IL-1Ra) as a possible strategy for optimizing tendon healing and repair by presenting histologically visible changes in rabbit Achilles tendon tissue after longitudinal tenotomy. The study was carried out on 26 Californian rabbits divided into two equal groups. One was the experimental IRAP (interleukin-1 receptor antagonist) group and the second one was the PBS (purified buffered saline) group. The PBS group was the control group. After longitudinal tenotomy in both groups of rabbits, in the IRAP group IL-1Ra was applied locally, whereas PBS was applied in the control group. IL-1 concentration in Achilles tendon tissue was measured with an ELISA IL-1 rabbit kit. Local application of IL-1Ra resulted in 2.5-fold lower IL-1 tissue concentration and prevented cytokine cascade activation and its proinflammatory effects. Consequently, it prevented chronic tendon inflammation and improved Achilles tendon healing in rabbits. Histological changes in tendon tissue samples were evaluated by Bonar scale score with statistically significant differences between groups (P ≤ 0.01).

The soft palate plays a critical role in the oral and pharyngeal phases of swallowing. Congenitally cleft soft palates (palatoschisis) in calves are rare and pose a serious challenge for surgical correction due to high complication rates. The main obstacles to repairing palate defects are obtaining complicated access to the soft palate, and reducing the tension on the repair so that the sutures hold. A 21 day old female Simmental calf was submitted to our clinic with a history of frequent episodes of coughing and milk dripping from its nostrils after suckling. After clinical examination, a congenital cleft palate was diagnosed. Surgery was performed under general anaesthesia. First, lateral buccotomy was performed to improve the intraoral approach. The palatal defect was repaired using polypropylene mesh and palatal mucosal flap. An oesophageal tube was placed and anchored to the skin using a Chinese finger trap suture technique. Antibiotic treatment was continued through seven days and a transoesophageal feeding tube was fitted at the end of the surgery allowing the calf to be fed with milk during the postoperative period. Postoperatively, the caudal aspect of the repair broke down resulting in persistent mild bilateral nasal discharge. A combination of the two described techniques can be a good option for resolving palatal defects. However, adequate exposure and repair are still difficult to achieve and these approaches often result in serious postoperative complications. Keywords: cleft palate ; surgical treatment ; calf

Congenital anomalies in offspring of natural breedings are often a result of environmental factors, genetic factors, or both. A 21-day-old male Simental female calf was submitted to our clinic with abnormal severe green mucoid nasal discharge from both nostrils. At necropsy, the calf showed multiple defects, including cleft palate, hydrocephalus, diphragmatic hernia and freemartinism. The cause of these anomalies could not be deter - mined. This report is the first to describe these multiple malformations in a single calf.

Reports of abdominal hernias in birds are often not clearly described. Abdominal hernias have been characterized as a separation in the aponeurosis of the abdominal musculature on the ventral midline. In this article one case of abdominal hernia is described. A painless, reducibile swelling was located in the ventral abdominal region close to the cloaca. Surgical repair was performed because the bird was stable clinically and an hernioraphy was indicated. A ventral midline celiotomy was performed. For repair of the abdominal hernia the abdominal muscles and skin were sutured in a standard two-layer closure using a simple continuous suture pattern. This procedure is safe and uncomplicated and this approach can be recommended as a curative method for abdominal hernia repair.

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of low-pressure pneumoperitoneum and pentoxifylline, a methylxanthine derivative, in the prevention of injury caused by free oxygen radicals generated during CO2 pneumoperitoneum. Methods: Twenty-eight rabbits were allocated randomly to 4 groups. Control group rabbits (group 1) were subjected to anesthesia for 60 min; group 2 and 3 animals were subjected to a CO2 pneumoperitoneum (15 or 7 mm Hg); and group 4 rabbits received 50 mg/kg pentoxifylline, followed by a 15-mm-Hg pneumoperitoneum. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), lipid hydroperoxide, glutathione reductase and total antioxidant status were measured. Results: Compared with group 1, a significant increase in lipid hydroperoxide levels at the end of the pneumoperitoneum and 30 min after deflation and a significant decrease in total antioxidant status 24 h after deflation were recorded in group 2. In addition, a significant increase was observed in ALT, AST and LDH levels. These changes were attenuated by low-pressure pneumoperitoneum, whereas pentoxifylline pretreatment appeared to attenuate only transaminase levels. Conclusion: Low-pressure pneumoperitoneum could attenuate ischemia/reperfusion injury induced by CO2 pneumoperitoneum in a rabbit model whereas pentoxifylline pretreatment appeared to attenuate only transaminase levels. Pentoxifylline did not prevent the development of oxidative stress.

Opisano je nekoliko tehnika kastracije bikova.

The pharmacokinetics of lidocaine deals with the measurement of lidocaine concentration in the blood and its changes over time. The toxicity of lidocaine is a function of its peak plasma concentration, which in turn depends on several factors including total dose and rates of systemic absorption and elimination. The aim of the study was to assess serum levels of lidocaine after a single shot epidural injection in dogs seen in daily practice. The study included nine dogs undergoing different types of surgery. The animals were anesthetized with a combination of diazepam and ketamine; then lidocaine was injected epidurally. Blood samples for measurement of serum lidocaine concentration were obtained before and at 10, 30, 60 and 120 min after single injection. Basic vital parameters of heart rate, respiratory rate, mean arterial pressure and hemoglobin saturation were recorded before induction of general anesthesia (T 1 ), immediately after intubation (T 2 ), and then at 10, 30, 60 and 120 min of epidural lidocaine administration. Study results indicated that serum lidocaine concentration did not reach the levels of potential toxicity in dogs upon epidural injection of 4 mg/kg lidocaine at a concentration of 2% and there were no significant alterations in basic vital parameters.

In 16 male dogs who suffered from perineal hernia, polypropylene mesh was used to close a defect in the pelvic diaphragm. Pelvic bone was drilled on the pelvic floor and mesh was sutured through holes by polypropylene suture. Strong pelvic diaphragm, good long-term results and time-sparing by this technique was achieved. Suture sinuses were developed in two dogs one month postoperatively. Objectives of this study were to describe a new alternative technique of perineal herniorraphy and postoperative possible complications. Weak- ness of internal obturator muscle flap is complication which can be observed during transposition of internal obturator muscle flap. This technique can be used when internal obturator muscle flap is weak like the operation of the first choice.

We studied distraction osteogenesis in canine experimental model using two types of external fixators, Ilizarov (n=6) or AO unilateral (n=9) external fixator. Distraction started 1 week after surgery (2 x 0.5 mm/day) and lasted for 3 weeks. Specimens were harvested from weeks 7 through 12. The outcome was assessed by X-ray, histology, histomorphometry and microradiography. Bone regeneration as observed by X-rays was satisfactory and similar in both groups. Both endochondral ossification and intramembranous ossification were found simultaneously in both groups. In both groups, bone formation parameters were significantly higher in the area of consolidating bone. No differences in histomorphometric parameters existed between the groups. In the study period, the bone formation was enhanced and prevailed in the distraction area. This study demonstrated the utility of the canine experimental model for the study of distraction osteogenesis.

Osteoblasts (OB) play an important role in bone remodeling through the release of cytokines such as osteoprotegerin (OPG), a receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) and osteopontin (OPN). The objective of our study was to evaluate the effects of Chinese herb extracts of Cistanche (Cistanche deserticola) on the in vitro expression of these cytokines in rat OB cell culture. The primary OBs were isolated from the rat skull by trypsin and collagenase digestion. The cellular phenotype was determined by the Swiss dyeing method, alkaline phosphatase staining, Von Kossa staining, and Alizarin red staining. The gene expression of OPG, RANKL and OPN were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR. All treatments with herbaceous plant extracts of Cistanche increased the gene expression of OPG and RANKL at 72 hours of culturing, especially at concentrations of 5×10-2 mg/mL, which were significantly different compared to the control cultures. Treatment significantly reduced the expression of the OPG/RANKL ratio at 48 hours and the expression of OPN mRNA at 72 hours of culturing. The in vitro exposure of OB to the plant preparation of Cistanche promoted the gene expression of OPG and RANKL and reduced the gene expression of OPG/RANKL and OPN, and thus, could maintain the balance of bone formation and resorption during bone metabolism., Osteoblasti (OB) imaju važnu ulogu u remodeliranju kostiju tako što izlučuju citokine, kao što su osteoprotegerin (OPG), ligand receptora aktivacije jezgrenog činitelja kappa-B (engl. receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand; RANKL) i osteopontin (OPN). Cilj našeg istraživanja bio je vrednovanje učinaka ekstrakata kineske biljke Cistanche deserticola na in vitro ekspresiju tih citokina u OB štakora u staničnoj kulturi. Primarni OB bili su izdvojeni iz lubanje štakora digestijom pomoću tripsina i kolagenaze, a njihov je fenotip bio određen uporabom Swiss metode bojenja, bojenjem alkalnom fosfatazom, te bojenjem crvenom bojom po Von Kossi i alizarinom. Ekspresije gena za OPG; RANKL i OPN analizarne su pomoću kvantitativne RT-PCR metode. Svi su tretmani s biljnim iscrpcima biljke Cistanche povećali ekspresiju gena za OPG i RANKL nakon 72 sata kultiviranja, posebice u koncentraciji od 5×10-2 mg/mL, kad su one bile značajno različite u usporedbi s vrijednostima dobivenima za kontrolne kulture, dok je većina tretmana značajno umanjila ekspresiju OPG/RANKL nakon 48 sati te ekspresiju OPN mRNA nakon 72 sata kultiviranja. In vitro izlaganje OB biljnom pripravku Cistanche u primijenjenim koncentracijama potaknulo je ekspresiju gena za OPG i RANKL te umanjilo ekspresiju gena za OPG/RANKL i OPN, pa bi stoga moglo uspostaviti ravnotežu pri obnavljanju i resorbiranju kostiju tijekom koštanog metabolizma.

Six months old brown hare was presented at the Surgery Clinic for evaluation of a right forelimb third grade lameness. Full physical examination, blood samples for complete blood count, and serum biochemistry were performed. Radiographic examination from anteroposterior and lateral views confirmed a old, closed, complete, non-comminuted, transverse fracture of the right radius and ulna diaphysis. Distal fragmet was slightly externaly rotated with angulation of 30 degrees opposed to proximal fragment. Therefore osteosynthesis was performed to reduce fragments to normal anatomical position with normal limb function. Sedation was performed by ketamine in dose of 35 mg/kg and xylazine in dose of 3 mg/kg i.m. Induction to general anaesthesia was performed by ketamine in dose of 4 mg/kg of bw i.v. Blind endotracheal intubation with uncuffed endotracheal tube, 3.0 mm diameter was performed while anesthetized brown hare was placed in sternal recumbency with its head extended. General anaesthesia was maintaned by 2% sevoflurane, O2 flow was 1 L/min during surgical procedure. Ketoprofen in dose 2 mg/kg of bw provided analgesia and enrofloxacine antimicrobial prophylaxis. Stabilization of fractures with bone plates and screws are the most popular methods of fracture fixation. Osteosynthesis was performed by 2.0, 8-hole stainless steel Synthes dynamic compression plate (DCP) placed on cranial (dorsal) surface of the radius in neutral position with seven 2.0 cortical stainless steel Synthes screws to achieve anatomical repositioning of fragments and to restore normal biological function of the limb. One hole was omitted due to formed callus on fracture site. Surgical procedure was performed within 45 minutes in order to reduce residence in a hospital environment, which hares generally find stressful. Limb was immobilized with modified Robert Jones bandage reinforced with aluminium splint. The fracture was assessed as clinically stable at the 5th day postoperatively and the animal was weightbearing on it's forelimb. One month later fracture healed completely without any complications. After performing full clinical examination and bloodwork, controled and modulated anaesthesia and analgesia, it is possible to perform osteosynthesis in brown hare with excellent outcome and also a good way to preserve fragile wildlife.

Six months old brown hare was presented at the Surgery Clinic for evaluation of a right forelimb third grade lameness. Full physical examination, blood samples for complete blood count, and serum biochemistry were performed. Radiographic examination from anteroposterior and lateral views confirmed a old, closed, complete, non-comminuted, transverse fracture in the middle part of right radius and ulna. Fracture repair in the brown hare is a similar to those in cats and dogs. Stabilization of fractures with bone plates and screws are the most popular methods of fracture fixation. Osteosynthesis was performed by 2.0, 8-hole stainless steel Synthes dynamic compression plate, DCP (Synthes Holding AG, 4500 Solothurn, Switzerland) placed on radius in neutral position to achieve anatomical repositioning of fragments and to restore normal biological function of the limb. Surgical procedure was performed within 45 minutes in order to reduce residence in a hospital environment, which hares generally find stressful. The fracture was assessed as clinically stable in the 5th day postoperatively and the animal was weightbearing on it's forelimb. Osteosynthesis of hare radius using DCP plate 2.0 is a good method of fixation and healing fractures. After performing full clinical examination and bloodwork, controled and modulated anaesthesia and analgesia, it is possible to perform osteosynthesis with excellent outcome and also a good way to preserve fragile wildlife.

Rad prikazuje slučaj ozlede skrotuma bika staroga 2 godine i 10 meseci koja nije zarastala. Kliničkim pregledom utvrđena je bolna oteklina prekrivena sivkastim naslagama fibrina i nekrotičnoga epitela na lateroventralnoj strani skrotuma, sa ubodnom ranom. Obzirom na složenost povrede odlučili smo se za ablaciju skrotuma sa ciljem da uklonimo izvor i širenje infekcije.

Cryptorchidism is a congenital anomaly that refers to failure of one or both testicles to descend into the scrotum more common in dogs than in cats. It affects less than 2% of all cats with emphasis on purebred cats, mostly Himalayan and Persian cat. Cryptorchidism is known as abdominal, inguinal or sometimes prescrotal, depending on the location of retained testicle(s). It can also be unilateral (up to 90%) or bilateral. Clinical signs include fighting problems and agression. A 5-year-old male cat was presented for castration aiming to solve agression and fighting problem. Following the clinical examination and appropriate diagnostic procedures, bilateral cryptorchidism was suspected and surgery was recommended in order to remove retained testicles. Ultrasound and x-ray diagnostic was not performed. Owing to the palpable mass in the right inguinum, an inguinal incision followed by medial laparotomy were made. Fully functional testicles had been found and removed from abdomen in field conditions in general anaesthesia. Pain management was maintained with epidural nerve block with 2% lidokain and postoperative with meloxicam. The prognosis is great in surgicaly corrected cryptorchidism followed by post-operative supportive therapy, strict rest and wound protection. Proper diagnose should be based on clinical examination, ultrasound evaluation and laboratory tests that include hormones such as hCG and GnRH. Treatment of the cryptorchidism can be conducted with hormonal drugs which mostly does not give good results. Neutering is recommended as soon as possible because untreated cryptorchidism can cause infertilization, tumor formation, function loss and appereance samo of the other congenital abnormalities. AS mentioned before bilateral abdominal cryptorchidism in mixed breed cats is uncommon. Bilateral orciectomy is highly recomended because of high incidence of muliple tumors with more than one histological type. It is possible to perform medial celiotomy in field conditions and to remove retained testicles.

The stability of homeostasis is important to keep a balance between coagulation and fibrinolysis. A disorder of homeostasis leads to different physiological changes and causes different diseases such as cardiopathies and malignant tumors. Cardiopathies is characterized by a hypercoagulation. In the malignant tumors, besides the hypercoagulation due to plasminogen activators (PA) formed inside the tumor, a disorder of homeostasis leads also to acceleration of the fibrinolysis. The variety of internal and external factors in both cases determine the deviation of time for the clots formation, as well as the lyses of blood and fibrin clots. In this study the venous blood as well as the blood and the fibrin clots, derived from healthy dogs, the dogs with cardiopathies and with malignant tumors, were examined for the time of coagulation and fibrinolysis by adding different substances. In these experiments we used a glycolipoprotein extract from earthworm tissue homogenate (G-90) and the proteolytic enzymes PI and PII, isolated from G-90. The efficacy of the tested substances was comparable with the clinically administered anticoagulants. The most significant differences in clotting time among the three tested groups of dogs were obtained by application of the original G-90. The results suggest a possibility that G-90, along with the fibrinolytic enzymes and other biologically active factors, also contains a factor that decelerates the formation of clot in a specific medium, such as the blood from the dogs with malignant tumors. (Pathology Oncology Research Vol 7, No 3,197-202,2001)

Butkovic V., M. ·impraga, M. ·ehic, D. Stanin, V. Su‰ic, D. Capak, J. Kos: Dental Diseases of Dogs: a Retrospective Study of Radiological Data. Acta Vet. Brno 2001, 70: 203-208. The purpose of the present study was to assess the number of pathological dental changes and anomalies in dogs. The incidence of dental diseases was investigated in radiologically examined 139 males dogs and 120 females dogs, aged seven months to 15 years. There were 235 purebred dogs and 24 mongrels. The oral cavity was clinically examined and radiographed. The incidence and extent of oligodontia, periodontitis, dental fractures and rotations, persisting deciduous teeth and supernumerary teeth were recorded. It has also been established that 30% of dogs presented more than one anomaly. The incidence of oligodontia equalled to 45.17%, peridontitis 44.40%, fracture 19.30%, tooth rotation 11.59%, persisting deciduous teeth 5.40% and supernumerary teeth 3.86%. Our results have shown that incidence of dental changes and anomalies differed significantly between dogs of different age groups. The highest incidence of oligodontia, tooth rotation, retained deciduous teeth and supernumerary teeth was observed in the youngest age group (p < 0.001), dental fracture in the mid-age group (p < 0.001) and peridontitis in the mid-age and oldest age group (p < 0.001). Considering the hereditary nature of the anomalies such as congenital oligodontia, tooth rotation and retained deciduous teeth, dog breeders should provide for a timely X-ray examination and, in case of these anomalies, exclude the affected dogs from further breeding.

The 15 amino acid agent BPC 157, showing a wide range of organoprotective action in different experimental models, was used in our experiments in order to establish its influence on different elements connected with the healing process. Elements thought to be of greatest importance in the process of healing are formation of granulation tissue, angiogenesis and production of collagen. In our work we tested the influence of BPC 157 on: granulation tissue and collagen formation, on angiogenesis as well as on tensile strength development, using three experimental rat models: 1) skin incisional wounds ; 2) colon-colon anastomoses ; and 3) angiogenesis model with synthetic sponge implantation. The specimens were histologically assessed for collagen, reticulin and blood vessels using scoring and morphometry. In all experiments significant differences between BPC 157-treated animals and controls were found, showing a strong, promoting involvement of BPC in the healing process. It is worth noting that these effects were achieved by different routes of application, including intragastric and local, making BPC 157 a potentially useful therapeutic agent.

Koštano cijeljenje složeni je fi ziološki proces koji podrazumijeva koordinirano djelovanje većega broja stanica i njihovih prekurzora kao odgovor na ozljedu, a posljedica je potpuna obnova jednakovrijednoga koštanog tkiva te preuzimanje fi ziološke funkcije tog tkiva. Tijekom cijeljenja dolazi do reakcije četiriju različitih čimbenika: periosta, kosti, koštane srži i okolnoga mekog tkiva. Osim spomenutih čimbenika optimalno cijeljenje kosti ovisi i o prisutnosti čimbenika rasta, hormona, nutrijenata, opskrbi kisikom, pH te mehaničkoj stabilnosti na mjestu ozljede. Koštanu reakciju, histološki gledano, možemo podijeliti na primarno i sekundarno koštano cijeljenje., Bone healing is characterized by a series of molecular, cellular, and tissue transformations consisting of resorption and formation of hard and soft tissues. Mineralized tissue remodeling in fracture repair involves the activity of various cells and tissues such as periost, bone marrow, bone and soft tissues. In addition to these factors optimal bone healing depends on presence of growth factors, hormones, oxygen supply, pH and mechanical stability on bone fracture site. Bone healing process can be divided in primary and secondary bone healing.

Fracture healing is a complex physiological process. Multiple factors regulate this cascade of molecular reactions, affecting different sites in the osteoblast lineage, through various processes such as: migration, proliferation, chemotaxis, differentiation, inhibition, and extracellular protein synthesis. The omentum is a serous membrane made up of a lattice of blood vessels and fat. Basically, it is a highly vasculated organ with a rich source of angiogenic factors that promote the growth of blood vessels into whatever tissue it is placed close to. Recent studies have revealed that the omentum, apart from being a great source of various growth factors, also contains omnipotent stem cells that can differentiate into a variety of cell types. The study was carried out on 16 adult male New Zealand rabbits in the same condition. A large segmental defect was created in the radius of each animal in groups A and B. In group B the defect was filled with a piece omental fat tissue. The animals were euthanized 56 days after the operation and the bones removed for histomorphometric analysis. Histomorphometric analysis was performed. The osteoblast interface (Ob.S/BS) proved to be the statistically significant parameter (P = 0.005). An osteoblast interface was found in the treated group in contrast to the control. The surface of trabecula covered with the osteiod and osteoblast interface showed a high degree of positive linear correlation, in both the control and the treated group. Our study shows that the statistically significant osteoblast interface leads to the conclusion that omental fat tissue has a certain influence on bone turnover, especially on the formation of the newly-created bone., Cijeljenje loma kosti složeni je fiziološki proces. Više faktora regulira ovu kaskadu molekularnih reakcija utječući na osteoblaste kroz razne procese kao što su migracija, proliferacija, kemotaksija, diferencijacija, inhibicija i ekstracelularna sinteza proteina. Omentum je serozna membrana koju čini mreža krvnih žila i masnog tkiva. To je izrazito vaskulariziran organ koji je ujedno bogat izvor angiogenih faktora koji potiču rast krvnih žila u bilo kojem tkivu na koje ga se položi. Nedavna istraživanja su otkrila, da omentum osim što je obilan izvor različitih faktora rasta, također sadrži omnipotentne matične stanice koje se mogu diferencirati u razne tipove stanica. Istraživanje je obavljeno na 16 odraslih mužjaka novozelandskog kunića istog statusa. Na radijusu svake životinje, podijeljene u skupine A i B, učinjen je veliki segmentalni defekt. U skupini B defekt je bio ispunjen komadićem (isječkom) masnog tkiva omentuma. Životinje su bile eutanazirane 56. dana nakon operativnog zahvata, a kosti su zatim izuzete za potrebe histomorfometrijske analize. Učinjena je histomorfometrijska analiza. Sloj osteoblasta (Ob.S/BS) pokazao se kao statistički značajan pokazatelj (P = 0,005). Sloj osteoblasta ustanovljen je u pokusnoj skupini u usporedbi s kontrolnom skupinom. Površina trabekula pokrivena osteoidima i slojem osteoblasta pokazala je visok stupanj pozitivne linearne korelacije i u kontrolnoj i pokusnoj skupini. Naše istraživanje pokazuje da sloj osteoblasta statistički značajno povećan, te se može zaključiti da masno tkivo omentuma ima stanoviti utjecaj na obnavljanje kostiju, naročito na formiranje novostvorene kosti.

The purpose of this study was to document abnormalities in premolar and molar teeth detected in a group of 100 equine patients. The oral cavities of standing, sedated horses were examined under field conditions. Clinical dental examinations revealed a high prevalence of premolar and molar tooth lesions, with dental overgrowths present in all the animals. The high prevalence of buccal soft tissue lesions (38%) present in this population was believed to be due to the high prevalence of moderate (72%) and severe (8%) dental overgrowths. Other abnormalities in premolar and molar teeth detected were: focal dental overgrowth (85%), wolf teeth (27%), ramps (12%), deciduous caps (8%), diastemata (4%), worn teeth (7%), shear mouth (1%), wave mouth (2%), step mouth (2%), missing teeth (1%) and fractured teeth (1%). This study showed that many horses had dental disorders without showing any clinical signs., Svrha ovog istraživanja bila je prikupiti rezultate kliničkih pretraga pretkutnjaka i kutnjaka u grupi od 100 kliničkih pacijenata. Pretrage usnih šupljina obavljene su u terenskim uvjetima na sediranim konjima u stojećem stavu. Kliničkim pretragama zubala ustanovljeni su različiti poremećaji pretkutnjaka i kutnjaka. Najučestaliji nalaz, zabilježen u svih konja, bili su oštri rubovi zuba. Visok postotak čireva obrazne sluznice (38%) pripisao se velikoj učestalosti umjerenog (72%) i jakog (8%) stupnja oštrih rubova zuba. Osim toga, zabilježena su žarišna preraštavanja griznih površina (85%), vučji zubi (27%), kosine zuba (12%), zaostali mliječni pretkutnjaci (8%), dijasteme (4%), istrošeni zubi (7%), koso zubalo (1%), valovito zubalo (2%), stepeničasto zubalo (2%), nedostatak zuba (1%) i lom zuba (1%). Ovo je istraživanje pokazalo da veći broj konja nije pokazivao jasne kliničke znakove usprkos prisutnosti patoloških procesa na pretkutnjacima i kutnjacima.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the topical action of oxytetracycline (OTC) and copper sulphate (CuSO4) in digital dermatitis treatment (DD). A study was conducted on a high-yielding dairy herd, to estimate the topical antibiotic effect and non-antibiotic treatment of DD, with or without bandaging. Research was carried out on 171 Holstein cows with DD in this study. The cows were divided into four experimental groups and one control group. In all cases, surgical debridement of DD lesions was performed before treatment. Group 1 received local topical treatment with oxytetracycline three times, on the zero, second and fifth days, without bandaging. Group 2 received one topical treatment of oxytetracycline with bandaging. Group 3 received one topical treatment of 8% copper sulphate. Group 4 received one topical treatment of 8% copper sulphate, followed by bandaging. Group 5 was used as the control, to assess the possible effects of surgical debridement and bandaging. The most efficient result was obtained in Group 2, in which 86% of the animals recovered from DD. Bandaging is a very important part of DD therapy, because it protects the layers of skin exposed after surgical debridement., Cilj ovog rada bio je istražiti djelovanje lokalno primijenjenog oksitetraciklina i bakrenog sulfata u liječenju digitalnog dermatitisa krava. Istraživanje je provedeno na farmi mliječnih krava, a procjenjivana je učinkovitost liječenja antiboticima i neantibiotskim tvarima s uporabom povoja ili bez. Istraživanje je provedeno na 171 kravi holštajnsko-frizijske pasmine. Krave su bile podijeljene u četiri pokusne i jednu kontrolnu skupinu. Prije medikamentozne terapije vršena je primarna kirurška obrada lezija koja je podrazumijevala uklanjanje nekrotičnog tkiva, tkivnih proliferata, dlake, eksudata i sl. Skupina 1 bila je liječena oksitetraciklinom u spreju trokratno bez primjene povoja. Skupina 2 bila je liječena oksitetraciklinom u spreju, lokalno. Nakon nanošenja antibiotika, lezija je bila prekrivena povojem. Skupina 3 bila je obrađena 8%-tnom otopinom bakrenog sulfata, a skupina 4 bakrenim sulfatom uz previjanje. Skupina 5 poslužila je kao kontrolna skupina gdje je procjenjivan utjecaj debridmenta i povoja. Najbolji učinak liječenja bio je uočen u skupini 2 gdje se liječenje sastojalo od ukljanjanja propalog tkiva, jednokratnog lokalnoga nanošenja tetraciklina i postavljanja povoja. U skupini 2 učinkovitost terapije iznosila je 86,1%. Postavljanje povoja nakon kirurškog debridmenta i primjena lijekova pokazala se uspješnom u liječenju digitalnog dermatitisa.

The aim of this paper was to determine the standard measures of the hoof (claw): length, height, heel height and hoof surface in breeding bulls as indicators for the correction of hooves. The paper deals with the healthy and pathologically altered hooves of 11 Simmental bulls, owned by the Centre for Reproduction in Livestock of Croatia, Križevci. After measuring these dimensions, their mean values were calculated, and a statistically significant difference was determined between values within each group of parameters and a certain correlation between the mean values and weight of each bull. The average length of the front limb hooves in the bulls studied was 9.39 cm, and the average length of the hind limb hooves was 9.92 cm. The average height of the front limb hooves was 8.65 cm and average height of the hind limb hooves was 8.63 cm. The average height of the front limb hoof heel of the bulls studied was 5.93 cm, and the average height of the hind limb hoof heel was 5.09 cm. The average surface of the front limb hooves was 122.46 cm² and the hind limb hooves 102.49 cm². The degree of correlation between the hoof length and body mass in front limb hooves was fourfold higher than the one in hind limb hooves. The trimming of the front limb hooves was rendered difficult by the live animals’ restlessness and the fact that they lean on one front limb hoof which is overburdened by the front part of the body during trimming and the horn of the front limb hooves was much firmer than of the hind limb hooves. A negative correlation between the obtained measurements of the heel height in front and hind limbhooves and body mass indicates that the increase in body mass overburdens the legs, and therefore their heel parts. The average surface area of the front limb hooves was 20 percent larger than the surface area of hind limb hooves. A significant and a very high correlation existed for the total area of hooves in relation to body mass of breeding bulls, and this correlation was more pronounced in the hoof surface of the front limb and body weight than the surface of the hind limb hooves and body weight. Hoof area increased with increasing body weight and the degree of correlation was more pronounced in the front limbs than in the hind limbs. This is, most probably, related to the fact that the front limb hooves suffer greater physiological load. The correlation of the total surface area of all limb hooves and body mass was also high., Cilj rada bio je odrediti standardne mjere dužine nokta (papka), visine papka, visine pete papka te površine papka u rasplodnih bikova kao pokazatelje prilikom korekcije papaka. U radu su obrađeni zdravi i patološki promijenjeni papci 11 bikova simentalske pasmine u vlasništvu Centra za reprodukciju u stočarstvu Hrvatske, Križevci. Nakon izmjere navedenih dimenzija izračunate su njihove srednje vrijednosti, utvrđena je statistička značajnost razlika vrijednosti unutar skupine svakog pojedinog pokazatelja te je određena korelacija srednje vrijednosti određenog pokazatelja i tjelesne mase svakoga pojedinog bika. Prosječna dužina nokta prednjih nogu istraživane pasmine rasplodnih bikova bila je 9,39 cm, a prosječna dužina nokta stražnjih nogu 9,92 cm. Prosječna visina papka prednjih nogu rasplodnih bikova iznosila je 8,65 cm, a prosječna visina papka stražnjih nogu 8,63 cm. Prosječna visina pete prednjih nogu rasplodnih bikova iznosila je 5,93 cm, a prosječna visina papka stražnjih nogu 5,09 cm. Prosječna vrijednost površine papka na prednjim nogama bila je 122,46 cm2, a na stražnjim 102,49 cm2. Stupanj korelacije između dužine papka i tjelesne mase prednjih nogu četiri je puta veći nego na stražnjim nogama. Korekcija papaka prednjih nogu živih bikova bila je otežana zbog nemira životinje i preopterećenja kontralateralne noge tijekom korekcije, a uz to je rožina papaka prednjih nogu bila puno čvršća, negoli stražnjih nogu što je imalo utjecaj na preciznost izmjere papaka. Negativan stupanj korelacije između visine pete papaka prednjih i stražnjih nogu i tjelesne mase upućuje na zaključak da se povećanjem tjelesne mase više opterećuju petni dijelovi papaka. Prosječna površina papaka prednjih nogu je 20% veća od prosječne površine papaka stražnjih nogu. Značajna i vrlo visoka povezanost postoji za ukupnu površinu papaka u odnosu na tjelesnu masu rasplodnih bikova, a ta korelacija je naglašenija u usporedbi površine papaka prednjih nogu i tjelesne mase negoli površine papaka stražnjih nogu i tjelesne mase. Površina papka raste s porastom tjelesne mase, a stupanj povezanosti je izraženiji na prednjim nogama, negoli na stražnjim. To je povezano s činjenicom da prednje noge, vrlo vjerojatno, trpe veće fiziološko opterećenje. Stupanj korelacije ukupne površine papaka svih udova i tjelesne mase također je visok.

This study shows on a rabbit model in vivo the importance of suture material elasticity in Achilles tendon healing. Tendon reconstruction was performed on 30 rabbits divided into three groups of 10 animals, according to the suture material. Tendons were sutured by the Krackow suture. Steel wire as a stiff material, polypropylene as a plastic material, and polybutester as a material that shows elasticity and resistance to deformities were used. In all the animals the unoperated, contra lateral limb served as control. A servohidraulic jack was used to set a maximum loading capacity until the breaking point (Fmax) and drawing ability (A). The breaking strength of tendons reconstructed by polybutester was not statistically different in comparison to the breaking strength of control tendons, but were significantly higher in comparison to tendons sutured by wire or polypropylene. Different histological staining methods were used to show the parameters of healing tendon tissue. The collagen fiber structure and arrangement, and the cellularity of tendon scar tissue sutured by polybutester are more similar to those of the control tendon. Achilles tendon suturing with polybutester is beneficial for tendon healing, so its clinical use is recommended., Ova studija na modelu kunića in vivo istražuje značenje elastičnosti šivaćega materijala u cijeljenju petne tetive. Šivanje tetiva izvedeno je na 30 kunića podijeljenih u 3 skupine po 10 životinja, s obzirom na upotrijebljen šivaći materijal. Uspoređeni su čelična žica kao krut materijal, polipropilen kao plastičan materijal i polibutester kao elastičan materijal otporan na deformacije. Servohidraulična kidalica upotrijebljena je za određivanje sile kidanja i istezljivosti tetiva. Sila kidanja tetiva rekonstruiranih polibutesterom nije se statistički značajno razlikovala od sila tetiva kontrolne skupine, ali je bila značajno veća u odnosu na sile kidanja tetiva sašivenih čeličnom žicom ili polipropilenom. Različite metode histološkoga bojenja rabljene su za prikazivanje pokazatelja cijeljenja tetiva. Građa kolagenih vlakana, uređenost i brojnost stanica ožiljkastoga tkiva tetiva sašivenih polibutesterom sličnija je tetivama kontrolne skupine. Šivanje tetive polibutesterom učinkovito je za njezino cijeljenje, te je stoga preporučljiv u kliničkoj uporabi.

Hypotension induced by volatile agents is particularly notorious in horses and it is probably one of the major causes of the high anaesthetic risk in this species. In the present study we investigated the influence of 10 mL/kg lactated Ringer solution on the values of arterial blood pressure during the elective surgical procedure, administered right before the induction of anaesthesia. The goal was to establish if it was possible to lower the risk of hypotension development with this type of therapy. Nine horses divided in two groups were used in this study. All the horses were submitted to the same anesthetic regimen. The second group of horses received 10 mL/kg i.v. lactated Ringer solution in the 15 minutes time before the induction of anesthesia. The effect of lactated Ringer solution was noted at the beginning of anesthesia. Statistically significant differences among groups were noticed during the first measurement. The results indicate that the suggested method may provide a very simple way of supporting the cardiovascular system at least at the beginning of the surgical procedure.

The study was undertaken to examine the effects of castration on plasma lipids and on the fatty acid profile of abdominal fat in male pheasants. Thirty pheasants reared in a commercial pheasantry were included in the experiment. Half the pheasants were castrated at 8 weeks of age and the other half underwent sham surgery at the same age. Plasma levels of triglycerides and high density lipoproteins (HDL) were significantly higher in the castrated pheasants. Values for cholesterol tended to be higher in castrated pheasants although without statistical significance. The fatty acid content of the abdominal fat from castrated and intact pheasants were primarily composed of oleic acid (42.58%-40.33%), followed by palmitic acid (25.25%-27.33%), linoleic (14.05%-12.65%) and stearic acid (8.95%-9.40%). Castration also significantly influenced the fatty acid composition of abdominal fat. Compared to the intact pheasants, the fatty acid content of abdominal fat from castrated pheasants contained higher values for saturated fatty acids (SFA) and lower values for unsaturated fatty acids (UFA), unsaturated to saturated fatty acids ratio (UFA/SFA) and polyunsaturated to saturated fatty acids ratio (PUFA/SFA).

This study aims to investigate the use of a photodensitometry to analyze plain radiographic images and correlate them with the rate of new bone formation in a critical size defect of a rabbit radius filled with an autologous omental graft. The computer program MCID Evaluation 7.0. was used for photodensitometric processing of X-ray images taken at 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks after surgery. The study was conducted on 20 adult New Zealand white rabbits under general anaesthesia, critical-sized osseous defect was created in the right radius and in treated group filled with autogenous omental graft. Optical densitometry of radiographs revealed statistically significant differences between the experimental and control sites. The study showed that autogenous omental grafts promoted healing of the critical-sized defect of the rabbit radius., Istražena je upotreba fotodenzitometrije za analizu rendgenograma u usporedbi sa stopom novostvorene kosti u kritičnom defektu kunićje palčane kosti ispunjene autolognim presatkom velikoga omentuma. Računalni program MCID 7.0. rabljen je za obradu rengenograma koji su snimljeni 2, 4, 6 i 8 tjedana nakon operacije. Istraživanje je provedeno na 20 odraslih novozelandskih kunića u općoj anesteziji. Denzitometrija rendgenograma pokazala je statistički značajne razlike između pokusne i kontrolne skupine. Istraživanje je pokazalo da autologni presadak omentuma pospješuje cijeljenje kritičnoga defekta kunićje palčane kosti.

The spleen is an important organ for hemodynamic compensation during hemorrhagic shock. The aim of the study was to compare the hemodynamic and metabolic responses of sham- operated pigs with intact spleen, splenectomized pigs, and splenic autotransplanted pigs during hemorrhagic shock. Hemorrhagic shock was induced by 30% total blood volume bleed in sham-operated, splenectomized and splenic autotransplanted pigs (n = 20). Cardiopulmonary and metabolic variables were measured before, immediately after, and at 20, 60 and 100 minutes after hemorrhage. Upon hemorrhagic shock induction, body temperature, mean arterial pressure, mean pulmonary arterial pressure, cardiac output, cardiac index and oxygen delivery decreased, while lactate and shock index increased. Hemoglobin and hematocrit were significantly lower in the splenectomized and splenic autotransplant groups as compared with the control group at 60 and 100 minutes after hemorrhage (p < 0.05). Unlike intact spleen, splenic autotransplant could not improve hemodynamic parameters in hemorrhagic shock in pigs. In comparison to mice, rats or dogs, this species could be an interesting investigation model to test new surgical procedures during splenic related hemorrhagic shock, with potential applications in human medicine.

The clinical, intraoperative and pathological findings taken from a case of melanoma in a 3-month-old bull calf are reported here. The cattle holder did not notice anything unusual when the calf was born, but noticed tumescence on the Achilles tendon at the age of 9 weeks, which increased with time. During surgery, subcutaneous and tendonous invasion by tumorous tissue was detected. Histological findings indicated that the neoplasia was a melanoma, therefore the prognosis was considered reserved. Melanoma is a rare tumour in cattle, often congenital, although already reported in companion species (e.g. dogs and cats) and domestic animals (e.g. some breeds of pigs and horses)., Opisani su klinički, intraoperacijski i patohistološki nalazi melanoma uočenoga na tromjesečnom muškom teletu. Vlasnik nije primijetio ništa neobično prilikom teljenja, ali je u dobi od devet tjedana opazio oteklinu na samoj Ahilovoj tetivi koja se postupno povećavala. Tijekom operacije uočeno je da su potkožje i tetiva zahvaćeni tumoroznim tkivom. Histološki nalaz upućivao je da je novotvorina melanom pa je stoga prognoza bila suzdržana. Melanomi su rijetki tumori u goveda, često su urođeni, a opisani su u kućnih ljubimaca (npr. u pasa i mačaka) i drugih domaćih životinja (npr. u nekih pasmina svinja i u konja).

In this study the process of the bone healing was observed. As the model the femoral bone of the New Zealand rabbit was used. The identical bone defect was created on the left and the right femur of the each experimental animal. On the right side the defect was covered with the fitting muscle tissue and with the free transplant of the greater omentum on the left side. The healing of the defect was observed by the x-ray and histological examination. The results of the investigations showed that the process of the callus formation and its mineralisation are much quicker and thicker on the defect that was covered with the free transplant of the greater omentum.

Background: Laparoscopic surgery has rapidly become a popular and widely used technique. Elevated intra abdominal pressure due to gas insufflation for laparoscopic surgery may result in a number of local and systemic effects on the organism. The effects of pneumoperitoneum on the cardiovascular and respiratory system are well known today, but very few studies have been carried out on the consequences of pneumoperitoneum on hepatic integrity. The aim of the present study was to assess changes in aminotransferases, bilirubin and prothrombin time after pneumoperitoneum in dogs. Methods: The effects of different levels and duration of intra abdominal pressure and different gases on liver function test were investigated in dogs. The levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, total and direct bilirubin, and prothrombin time, according to the duration and the level of pneumoperitoneum and gas, were measured at 6, 12, 24 and 48 h of desufflation. Results: The levels of total bilirubin, direct bilirubin and prothrombin time showed no significant alteration. A statistically significant (P

Trochleoplasty or sulcoplasty has always played a prominent role in the radical methods of sanation of patellar dislocation. The results of 20 operated dogs were considered. Two groups of experimental animals were operated on, one by rescission trochleoplasty and the second by abrasive trochleoplasty. Clinical, radiological, pathomorphological and histological findings were studied. Although rescission trochleoplasty produces a physiologically closer result to the preoperative cartilage, abrasive trochleoplasty is a much simpler technique to perform and is biomechanically a more efficient method in conceiving the stability of the stifle joint in the radical treatment of patella ectopy., Među metodama radikalne sanacije dislokacije patele, trohleoplastika je uvijek zauzimala istaknuto mjesto. U obzir su uzeti rezultati 20 operiranih pasa. Operirane su dvije skupine eksperimentalnih pasa: skupina A abrazijskom trohleoplastikom, a skupina B resekcijskom. Proučeni su klinički, radiološki, patomorfološki i histološki nalazi. Iako resekcijska trohleoplastika daje rezultat bliži preoperativnoj zglobnoj hrskavici, abrazijska trohleoplastika je znatno jednostavnija metoda, a biomehanički zadovoljava stabilnošću koljena nakon radikalne sanacije ektopije patele.

The efficacy of osteogenic protein-1 (OP-1 ; BMP-7) in regeneration of articular cartilage was examined by creating knee chondral defects in sheep. With a specially designed instrument in both knees, two 10 mm (diameter) chondral defects were created: one in the trochlea and the other on the femoral condyle. The recombinant BMP was delivered via an extra-articulary positioned mini-osmotic pump, which was fixed to the femoral diaphysis above the knee joint, and connected by a polyethylene tubing to the articular space. Prior to use, the compatibility of OP-1 with mini-osmotic pumps was tested in vitro by measuring aggregation/precipitation and modification of the released protein by size exclusion and reversed phase HPLC. The average amount of aggregation was 15% and about 5% of OP-1 was modified. However, the biological activity of OP-1 released from pumps over a period of 2 weeks at 37 degrees C was equal to ROS cell assay OP-1 standard. Following surgery, a total of 55 microg (low dose) or 170 microg (high dose) OP-1 in acetate buffer (pH 4.5) was slowly released from the pump over a period of 2 weeks. The pumps connected to control knees were filled with acetate buffer as a vehicle. Twelve animals were operated, six of which were treated with the low OP-1 dose, and six with the high OP-1 dose. Three sheep of each group were killed either at 3 or 6 months following surgery, based on arthroscopical evaluation. The chondral defects in the control knees remained empty during the observation period. At 3 months following surgery, defects treated with both OP-1 doses were filled with connective tissue and cartilage. At 6 months following surgery, both doses of OP-1 stimulated regeneration in treated knees. The boundaries between new and old cartilage were well fused and mechanically resisted animals' weight bearing. The regenerated cartilage was rich in proteoglycans and type II collagen, as demonstrated by toluidine blue staining and immunohistochemistry. No signs of endochondral bone formation above the bony tidemark were observed. We suggest that a recombinant bone morphogenctic protein stimulates ingrowth of mesenchymal cells into the chondral defects which then transform into newly formed articular cartilage-like tissue.

The efficacy of human recombinant osteogenic protein-1 (OP-1; bone morphogenetic protein-7) in regeneration of dog larynx was examined by treating thyroid cartilage defects (1.5 cm2) in dogs with thyroid allografts covered with host perichondrium or fascia. Prior to implantation allografts were frozen, thawed and demineralized. The treatment groups were as follows: I--Allograft control implant (n = 3); II--Implants coated with 500 micrograms OP-1 (n = 4); III--Implants coated with 100 micrograms OP-1 (n = 3); IV--Implants coated with 500 micrograms OP-1 and covered with neck fascia (n = 3); and V--Implants extracted with 1 M NaCl and guanidine hydrochloride, and coated with 500 micrograms OP-1 (n = 4). Dogs were sacrificed four months following surgery. Each larynx was removed, carefully dissected and a three-dimensional reconstruction of the defect area was performed on serial sections. The results revealed that the implants of control dogs remained intact with no apparent reduction in size and new tissue formation. OP-1 enriched thyroid allografts, dose dependently induced bone, cartilage and ligament-like structures comprising up to 80% of the total regenerated defect area. Boundaries of the defects healed by formation of new bone when bone resided within the old thyroid cartilage layers. Old cartilage not containing bone within its layers healed by complete integration with newly formed cartilage. Both new bone and cartilage were embedded into layers of new ligament-like tissue which expressed specific morphologic and molecular markers. The three newly formed tissues were tightly connected into a "bone-cartilage-ligament continuum" of tissues, suggesting that OP-1 served as a multiple tissue morphogen in this specific microenvironment.