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Due to the increasing popularity of minipigs as pets, the frequency of presentation to the veterinarian is increasing as well. In addition to routine measures such as claw trimming, vaccination and antiparasitic treatment, diagnostics, and therapy of diseased minipigs are also common activities in the veterinary practice. In recent years, we have noticed more and more pathological changes of the female genital tract of uncastrated minipigs. There are also some case reports available in the international literature in this regard. The following case report describes the diagnostic procedures and ovariohysterectomies of 2 13-year-old female minipigs in detail. In these cases, uterine adenocarcinoma, and uterine carcinoma, respectively, combined with cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) of the endometrium were diagnosed.Aufgrund der stetig steigenden Beliebtheit von Minipigs als Haustiere, werden diese immer häufiger in der Praxis vorgestellt. Neben Routinemaßnahmen wie Klauenkorrektur, Impfung und antiparasitärer Behandlung gehören auch Diagnostik und Therapie erkrankter Minipigs zu den gängigen Tätigkeiten in der tierärztlichen Praxis. In den letzten Jahren wurden vermehrt pathologische Veränderungen des weiblichen Geschlechtstraktes unkastrierter Minipigs beobachtet. Auch in der internationalen Literatur finden sich einige Fallberichte zu diesem Thema. Im vorliegenden Fallbericht werden das diagnostische Verfahren und die Ovariohysterektomien von 2 13-jährigen weiblichen Minischweinen detailliert beschrieben. In beiden Fällen wurden ein Uterusadenokarzinom bzw. ein Uteruskarzinom sowie eine glandulär-zystische Hyperplasie des Endometriums (HGCE) diagnostiziert.

ZusammenfassungEine 5,5 Jahre alte Alpakastute wurde aufgrund einer Lahmheit hinten rechts an die Universitätsklinik für Wiederkäuer überwiesen. Vorberichtlich war bereits vor ca. 6 Monaten eine systemische antibiotische Therapie über mehrere Tage durchgeführt worden, worauf sich das Gangbild verbesserte und die Lahmheit kaum noch zu beobachten war. Zum damaligen Zeitpunkt gab es seitens der Tierhalter keinen Hinweis auf eine traumatische Ursache für diese Lahmheit. Bei der klinischen Aufnahmeuntersuchung zeigte sich kaudal des rechten Tuber coxae eine ca. 2 × 2 cm große, fluktuierende, nicht vermehrt warme, nicht schmerzhafte Umfangsvermehrung, welche zum darunterliegenden Gewebe hin verschieblich war. Zudem wurde eine mittelgradige, gemischte Lahmheit mit überwiegendem Anteil der Hangbeinkomponente am rechten Hinterbein diagnostiziert. Als weiterführende diagnostische Maßnahme wurde eine sonographische Untersuchung der rechten Gluteal- und Hüftgelenksregion durchgeführt, wobei hochgradige Knochenkonturveränderungen im Bereich des rechten Hüftgelenkes festgestellt wurden. Zur weiteren Abklärung wurde eine röntgenologische Untersuchung des Beckens vorgenommen. Unter Miteinbeziehung der klinisch festgestellten Fistelöffnung an der rechten Glutealregion und den Befunden der radiologischen Untersuchung wurde die Diagnose einer bereits seit längerem bestehenden infizierten Fraktur des rechten Darmbeines mit hochgradiger unregelmäßig verkalkter Kallusbildung und gering- bis mittelgradiger Osteomyelitis gestellt. Aufgrund der sonografischen und röntgenologischen Befunde wurde eine schlechte Prognose gestellt und der Patient euthanasiert. Zur weiteren Dokumentation und um das Ausmaß der pathologischen Veränderungen besser darstellen zu können, wurde zusätzlich eine computertomografische Untersuchung vom Becken und der Lendenwirbelsäule im Bereich L3–L6 durchgeführt. Zur finalen Abklärung wurde eine pathohistologische Untersuchung der festgestellten Knochenveränderungen sowie eine bakteriologische Untersuchung des Abszessinhaltes vorgenommen.Anhand des hier vorgestellten Falles wird ersichtlich, wie wichtig eine gründliche klinische und orthopädische Untersuchung und vor allem zusätzlich weiterführende Untersuchungen sind, da vor allem Neuweltkamele oftmals nur geringe klinische Symptome zeigen, obwohl Veränderungen bereits massiv ausgeprägt sein können.

CASE DESCRIPTION A 9-year-old spayed female Maine Coon cat was presented at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna for further investigation of chronic nonpruritic bilateral ear disease and unilateral Horner syndrome. CLINICAL FINDINGS Physical examination and otoscopy findings included right sided Horner syndrome, a right head tilt of approximately 20° and a small pink nodule in the right and several smaller nodules in the left proximal horizontal external ear canal. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed soft tissue opacity material in both middle ear cavities, the caudal portion of the nasal cavity, the left nasopharyngeal meatus and the right frontal sinus. Via videootoscopy, 2 multilobular and several flat nodules were detected in the proximal right horizontal external ear canal and in the left tympanic bulla, respectively. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of cholesterol granulomas. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME All otic cholesterol granulomas (CGs) were removed via video-otoscopy (VO), and topical treatment was initiated in addition to oral prednisolone. After the histopathological confirmation, negative microbial cultures from the middle ear cavities, and the remission of the symptoms by the first recheck, topical, and systemic treatment were discontinued. A follow-up 6 months later, did not reveal any recurrence of the CGs. CLINICAL RELEVANCE To our knowledge, this is the first case of bilateral CGs diagnosed with a combination of CT, MRI, VO, and histopathology and removed minimal invasively via VO, without a need for ventral bulla osteotomy, which led to complete remission of all signs and no relapse until the follow up 6 months later.

A 5.5-year-old alpaca mare was referred to the University Clinic for Ruminants due to a lameness in the right hind limb. Six months prior to presentation, the mare had been treated with systemic antibiotics resulting in resolution of the initial lameness. At the time there had been no indication of an inciting trauma. Clinical examination revealed an approx. 2 × 2 cm large, fluctuating, neither excessively warm nor painful mass caudal to the right tuber coxae fixed to the underlying tissue. In addition, a moderate, mixed lameness with a predominant proportion of the swinging leg component was present in the right hind limb. Subsequently, sonographic examination of the right gluteal region was performed, revealing severe alterations of bone contour in the area of the right hip joint. Radiographic assessment of the pelvis was carried out for further clarification. Based on the clinical finding of a fistula in the right gluteal region as well as the results of the radiologic examination, a long-standing infected fracture of the right iliac bone accompanied by high-degree, irregularly calcified callus formation and low to moderate osteomyelitis in the fracture area was diagnosed. The patient was euthanized in consequence of the grave prognosis. Computed tomographic examination of the pelvis and the lumbar spine in the L3-L6 area was undertaken in order to further document the extent of the pathological changes. For final clarification, patho-histological examination as well as a microbiologic analysis of the abscess exudate were performed.The presented case shows the importance of clinical as well as orthopedic examinations, as the individual animal frequently only exhibits minimal clinical signs despite the presence of severe changes.Eine 5,5 Jahre alte Alpakastute wurde aufgrund einer Lahmheit hinten rechts an die Universitätsklinik für Wiederkäuer überwiesen. Vorberichtlich war bereits vor ca. 6 Monaten eine systemische antibiotische Therapie über mehrere Tage durchgeführt worden, worauf sich das Gangbild verbesserte und die Lahmheit kaum noch zu beobachten war. Zum damaligen Zeitpunkt gab es seitens der Tierhalter keinen Hinweis auf eine traumatische Ursache für diese Lahmheit. Bei der klinischen Aufnahmeuntersuchung zeigte sich kaudal des rechten Tuber coxae eine ca. 2 × 2 cm große, fluktuierende, nicht vermehrt warme, nicht schmerzhafte Umfangsvermehrung, welche zum darunterliegenden Gewebe hin verschieblich war. Zudem wurde eine mittelgradige, gemischte Lahmheit mit überwiegendem Anteil der Hangbeinkomponente am rechten Hinterbein diagnostiziert. Als weiterführende diagnostische Maßnahme wurde eine sonographische Untersuchung der rechten Gluteal- und Hüftgelenksregion durchgeführt, wobei hochgradige Knochenkonturveränderungen im Bereich des rechten Hüftgelenkes festgestellt wurden. Zur weiteren Abklärung wurde eine röntgenologische Untersuchung des Beckens vorgenommen. Unter Miteinbeziehung der klinisch festgestellten Fistelöffnung an der rechten Glutealregion und den Befunden der radiologischen Untersuchung wurde die Diagnose einer bereits seit längerem bestehenden infizierten Fraktur des rechten Darmbeines mit hochgradiger unregelmäßig verkalkter Kallusbildung und gering- bis mittelgradiger Osteomyelitis gestellt. Aufgrund der sonografischen und röntgenologischen Befunde wurde eine schlechte Prognose gestellt und der Patient euthanasiert. Zur weiteren Dokumentation und um das Ausmaß der pathologischen Veränderungen besser darstellen zu können, wurde zusätzlich eine computertomografische Untersuchung vom Becken und der Lendenwirbelsäule im Bereich L3–L6 durchgeführt. Zur finalen Abklärung wurde eine pathohistologische Untersuchung der festgestellten Knochenveränderungen sowie eine bakteriologische Untersuchung des Abszessinhaltes vorgenommen.Anhand des hier vorgestellten Falles wird ersichtlich, wie wichtig eine gründliche klinische und orthopädische Untersuchung und vor allem zusätzlich weiterführende Untersuchungen sind, da vor allem Neuweltkamele oftmals nur geringe klinische Symptome zeigen, obwohl Veränderungen bereits massiv ausgeprägt sein können.

Objectives The objective of this study was to compare ground reaction forces (GRFs) of a group of cats after femoral head and neck ostectomy (FHO) with those of a historical control group. Methods We searched the database of the Small Animal Clinic of the Veterinary University in Vienna for cats that had undergone unilateral FHO at least 1 year previously. Owners were telephoned and invited to the clinic with their cats for a re-examination. An in-house owner questionnaire-based evaluation, complete orthopaedic examination, hip radiography and gait analysis with a pressure-sensitive plate were performed, and results were compared within and between groups (FHO group and control group [CG]). Results Seventeen cats that had undergone FHO (FHO group) at least 1 year previously and 15 healthy cats (CG) from a previous study were included. Measured GRFs (peak vertical force and vertical impulse [IFz] normalised to total force [%TF]) of the FHO legs were lower than those of the other legs of the FHO group and the legs of the CG. Results of the owner questionnaire were generally good and did not match the results of the GRF comparison. Furthermore, the gaits evaluated during the orthopaedic examination did not correlate with the measured GRFs where we identified a certain degree of lameness (reduced IFz, %TF) in all cats. Cats with limb shortening (dorsally displaced major trochanter major) were not revealed to have different GRF measurements. Conclusions and relevance This is the first study to assess GRFs in a large group of cats that had undergone FHO, comparing findings with those in healthy cats. Even if the differences are statistically significant, but rather small, our findings point to a long-term residual gait abnormality that could be detected using a pressure-sensitive plate but not always with an orthopaedic examination, in cats 1 year after FHO.

Background: Hepatic lipidosis is a common condition in reptiles but is rarely reported in amphibians. Case description: A 1-year-old tiger salamander (Ambystoma tigrinum) of unknown sex, was presented with a 6-week history of anorexia. Diagnostic tests performed included an in-house hematological evaluation, blood biochemistry, radiology, coelomic ultrasound, and computed tomography (CT), which revealed hepatic lipidosis. Hospitalization for supportive medical management included enteral nutrition, antibiotic, and liver support medication. Conclusions and case relevance: The salamander responded well to medical management and started eating a week after discharge. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of diagnosis of hepatic lipidosis in a salamander by quantitative CT, which represents a noninvasive alternative to liver biopsy.

Currently, there are more than 8200 amphibian species described, including the orders Anura (frogs and toads), Caudata (salamanders and newts) and Gymnophiona (caecilians). Amphibians have 3 heart chambers: 2 atria and 1 ventricle. Their heart anatomy, histology, and physiology are reviewed. The basic morphology of the heart is similar in all amphibians with some differences due to their lifestyle. Blood flow, blood mixing, and blood oxygenation show variation due to interindividual and interspecific differences. Finally, different diagnostic methods to investigate the amphibian heart are described and reported amphibian heart diseases are summarized, including genetic, congenital, infectious, and neoplastic heart diseases.

For large avians such as vultures, limb loss leads to loss of ambulation and eventually death from malnutrition. Prosthetic devices may replace the limb, however, conventional prosthetic sockets are not feasible in feathered limbs and the extreme stress and strain of unreflected daily use in animals. Osseointegration is a novel technique, where external prosthetic parts are connected directly to a bone anchor to provide a solid skeletal-attachment. This concept provides a high degree of embodiment since osseoperception will provide direct intuitive feedback allowing natural use of the limb in gait and feeding. Here we demonstrate for the first time an osseointegrated bionic reconstruction of a limb in a vulture after a tarsometatarsal amputation with a longterm follow-up.

Detailed information is given about technique and image interpretation of radiography and computed tomography of the respiratory tract in reptiles. MRI and sonography are mentioned when supporting differential diagnoses. Various diseases and imaging pitfalls are described with multiple figures and graphics. One focus is on lung compression in chelonians, which may be misinterpreted as pneumonia in dyspneic patients without the help of imaging tools.

Female reproductive tract disorders are common conditions of backyard poultry with an increasing demand for individual veterinary care. However, only limited case reports are available on diagnostic workup and outcomes of individual cases. This study aims at giving an overview of usually presented reproductive tract disorders, comparing diagnostic imaging findings with final diagnoses, and summarizing the outcome of the respective diseases.The digital medical records archive of the University for Veterinary Medicine in Vienna was searched for chickens that were finally diagnosed with diseases of the reproductive tract, including all patients from May 1st, 2009 to May 31st, 2019. Information such as patient age, medical history, results of diagnostic imaging, final confirmed diagnosis, outcome, surgical protocol and necropsy findings was extracted.Finally confirmed reproductive tract diseases were found in 57 of 315 female chickens. The most common conditions were egg-related coelomitis along with salpingitis or impacted salpinx (25/57), followed by ovarian or oviductal neoplasia (17/57). Clinical findings were unspecific in the majority of cases, but most conspicuous were chickens presented with a distended coelomic cavity and apathy. Coelomic ultrasonography as well as computed tomography proved to be valuable tools for distinguishing between the respective conditions. However, ultrasonography alone mainly failed (10/11) to differentiate between ovary or oviductal neoplasia and egg-related coelomitis with salpingitis or impacted salpinx, respectively. Computed tomography was perceived as a superior tool for final diagnosis. In total 6/6 CT-scans correctly made a definitive diagnosis. Nevertheless, accurate diagnosis was only possible after celiotomy with the necessity of consecutive surgery for most of the reported cases. As an overall outcome 34 of 57 patients were either euthanised or died, whereas only 23 chickens could be successfully treated and discharged. Several hens were reported to be doing well at home, according to regular check-up procedures within 4 years post-surgery.Diagnostic work-up and treatment of hens with reproductive tract diseases can be challenging. Clinical presentation and diagnostic imaging provide important information, still celiotomy is often required for final diagnosis. The condition of the chickens is usually serious. Within our study, 40 % of the hens could be treated successfully. Therefore, a realistic assessment of each individual case and clarification for the owners are important.Erkrankungen des Reproduktionstrakts sind bei Hobbyhühnern ein häufiger Vorstellungsgrund mit steigendem Besitzerwunsch nach adäquater Behandlung. Aufgrund der spärlichen Literaturangaben zu dieser Thematik war es Ziel dieser Arbeit, einen Überblick über häufig auftretende Erkrankungen des Reproduktionstrakts von Hennen zu geben, die Befunde der bildgebenden Diagnostik mit der finalen Diagnose zu vergleichen und den Ausgang der verschiedenen Erkrankungskomplexe zusammenzufassen.Das digitale medizinische Patientenarchiv der Veterinärmedizinischen Universität Wien wurde nach Hühnern durchsucht, die von 1. Mai 2009 bis 31. Mai 2019 vorgestellt und bei denen Erkrankungen des Reproduktionstrakts diagnostiziert wurden. Zur Auswertung wurden relevante Informationen wie Alter der Patienten, Vorerkrankungen, Befunde der bildgebenden Diagnostik, finale Diagnosen, Operationsprotokolle, Ausgang und wenn vorhanden Sektionsprotokolle extrahiert.Bestätigte Erkrankungen des Reproduktionstrakts fanden sich bei 57 von 315 Hennen. Am häufigsten erkrankten die Tiere an Ei-/Dotterserositis mit begleitender Salpingitis oder Eimassen in der Salpinx (25/57), gefolgt von Tumoren ausgehend von Ovar oder Salpinx (17/57). Die klinische Untersuchung ergab meist unspezifische Befunde. Am auffälligsten waren apathische Tiere mit umfangsvermehrtem Abdomen. Bei der Differenzierung verschiedener Krankheitskomplexe erwiesen sich Sonografie und Computertomografie als hilfreiche bildgebende Verfahren. Eine sichere Unterscheidung zwischen Tumoren des Reproduktionstrakts und Ei-/Dotterserositis mit begleitender Salpingitis/Eimassen in der Salpinx gelang mit alleiniger sonografischer Untersuchung in den meisten Fällen (10/11) nicht. Die CT zeigte sich hier als das deutlich sensitivere Verfahren. Bei 6/6 CT-Scans wurde eine korrekte Diagnose gestellt. In vielen Fällen erlaubte aber erst die Laparatomie eine finale Diagnosestellung. Eine chirurgische Intervention war häufig notwendig. Der Ausgang war überwiegend ungünstig: 34 der 57 Hühner wurden euthanasiert oder verstarben und nur 23 Tiere konnten erfolgreich behandelt werden. Der weitere Verlauf ließ sich bei einigen Hühnern über bis zu 4 Jahre verfolgen, wobei die Besitzer über ein gutes Allgemeinbefinden der Tiere berichteten.Diagnostische Aufarbeitung und Therapie von Erkrankungen des Reproduktionstrakts bei Hobbyhennen können sehr anspruchsvoll sein. Das klinische Bild und bildgebende Verfahren bieten wichtige Hinweise, doch häufig erfordert die Diagnosestellung eine Laparotomie. Meist liegen schwere Krankheitsbilder vor. Bei 40 % der Hennen gelang eine erfolgreiche Behandlung. Eine realistische Einschätzung des jeweiligen Falls und eine entsprechende Aufklärung der Halter sind daher wichtig.

The aim of this study was to investigate the variability of the slope of the pelvis in different dog breeds and the correlation between pelvic slope and femoral subluxation. The sacrum–pelvis angle (SPA), the angulation between the sacrum and the axis of the ilium was created to represent the differences in the slope of the pelvis on lateral pelvic radiographs. The Norberg angle (NA) was used to quantify the femoral subluxation on hip-extended radiographs. Archived standard ventrodorsal hip radiographs and lateral lumbosacral radiographs of the same dogs were retrieved and a single observer measured the SPA and the NA in each case. A total of 180 dogs from six different breeds were sampled. The SPA varied between 40° and 71.5° and the NA between 71.2° and 113.9°. The findings indicated that there are significant individual and interbreed variations in the slope of the pelvis. However, no significant relationship between the slope of the pelvis and femoral subluxation could be identified.

A 21-year-old female California kingsnake (Lampropeltis californiae) was presented to the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria, with a space-occupying mass in the caudal abdomen. Following clinical, radiological and sonographical evaluation the mass was removed surgically. Histopathology and transmission electron microscopy confirmed the diagnosis of a granular cell tumour, but immunohistochemical labelling for a range of markers was negative. This lesion is rare in mammals and birds, but has not been reported previously in a reptile.

Background Intracranial abscess formation is an extremely rare and sporadically documented disease in South American Camelids (SACs). Herein we report the first case of otogenic brain abscess formation in this species. Case presentation A 4 years old female alpaca was presented to our veterinary hospital with a 6 month history of neurologic disorder symptoms, mainly head tilt to the right and emaciation. A comprehensive workup (ultrasound and computed tomography) revealed irreversible cranial nerve abnormalities, extensive lesions in the region of external, middle and internal right ear including destruction of bony structures (tympanic bulla, parts of temporal bone) and severe brain deformation caused by an intracranial abscess. The lesion was up to 6x7x4 cm and occupying almost 40% of the cranial cavity. No pathological findings were evident in other organs or structures. The late referral of the alpaca at this advanced stage of destructive disease precluded surgical intervention. Conclusions This case report describes the clinical signs, diagnostic procedures and pathological findings in an adult female alpaca suffering from cranial nerve abnormalities caused by a massive otogenic brain abscess. Camelids suffering from otitis may not present with clinical signs until the pathology is severe. The importance of considering intracranial abscess formation as differential diagnosis in SACs showing the merest hint of nerve deficits cannot be emphasized enough in order to diagnose such pathological processes at an early and treatable stage.

A 7-year-old Jack Russell Terrier with a history of minor trauma was presented for lameness of the left forelimb. Radiography and computed tomography demonstrated a localized radioulnar osteolytic lesion with cortical bone loss and enthesiophytes. Based on results of diagnostic imaging and histopathological examination, the final diagnosis was radioulnar ischemic necrosis (RUIN), complicated by pathologic fracture. A rare disorder of unknown etiology, RUIN may be secondary to tearing of the interosseous ligament and potential ischemia. It should be differentiated from neoplastic or fungal disease. To the authors´ knowledge, this is the first canine case report describing RUIN.

Boat strikes have been widely documented as a major cause of anthropogenic trauma and mortality in sea turtles. Axial trauma in these species involves the head and/or carapace and may cause severe damage to the nervous and pulmonary systems. The aims of this study were to develop an updated protocol for neurologic examinations in sea turtles, to describe computed tomography (CT) findings in sea turtles with sustained trauma, and to associate CT findings with neurologic status in sea turtles with and without traumatic injury. Ten sea turtles were examined, six green (Chelonia mydas) and four loggerhead (Caretta caretta) turtles: seven underwent neurologic and CT examinations, two had CT examinations only, and one had a neurologic examination only. The updated neurologic examination protocol was considered useful in differentiating normal from abnormal neurologic status, however some of these tests remain unreliable in sea turtles. Sea turtles with no history of trauma were found to have normal carapace shape, vertebral column, and neurologic status. Sea turtles with history of traumatic injury (more than 10 years prior to examination) had findings dependent on trauma site. Those with head trauma had variable presentations dependent on location of injury; while those with carapace trauma had varying degrees of kyphosis, lordosis, and scoliosis of the carapace, vertebral fractures, and paraparesis. Kyphosis of the carapace was associated with vertebral fractures detected on CT; however, the severity of vertebral abnormalities was not associated with the severity of neurologic deficits. These findings suggest that a combination of neurologic and CT examination may be beneficial in determining clinical significance of carapace deformation and associated neurologic deficits in sea turtles with traumatic injury.

A five-year-old intact female East Friesian sheep was presented for examination, following a noted decrease in feed intake and general apathy. A swelling was observed under the right eye. Ultrasonographic examination exposed a mass with a highly irregular texture and distinct loss of the normal bone surface echogenicity of the zygomatic and temporal processes. An ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspirate was performed which showed that the mass was a malignant spindle-cell sarcoma. The sheep was euthanased and a postmortem CT examination revealed extensive damage to the tissues surrounding the mass. Immunohistochemical staining helped to confirm the diagnosis fibrosarcoma. This case shows the value of using ultrasonography in working up such cases in general practice. The technology is available to most farm animal veterinarians and, in the authors’ opinion, should be used more extensively in practice.

Current research on gait analysis mostly involves horses and dogs. Feline kinetics and kinematics are being investigated and receiving more clinical interest at present. Ground reaction forces measured on pressure-sensitive mattresses have been established in healthy Domestic Shorthair cats (DSH). Currently, no further information exists on either breed-specific measured gait reaction forces or comparisons among breeds. Because Maine Coon (MC) cats appear to be over-represented with orthopaedic diseases of the hind limb (hip dysplasia, patellar luxation), we evaluated ground reaction force GRF measurements in MC cats and compared them with those of DSH cats. Pre-evaluation radiological and clinical exams determined that the cats were not lame. The parameters evaluated were peak vertical force (PFz), vertical impulse (IFz), time to PFz (TPFz), step length (SL), paw contact area (PCA), stance phase duration (SPD) and symmetry index (SI) for the fore- and hind limbs. In both breeds, PFz and IFz were greater in forelimbs than in hind limbs. The PFz and IFz in Newtons were higher in the MC cats compared to the DSH cats, but not after normalisation for total force (%TF) and body mass (%BM). Furthermore, due to their body conformation, MC cats have a longer SL, larger PCA, and higher body weight than DSH cats. No other parameters differed significantly, except that the TPFz displayed an earlier value in the MC hind limbs. Measured symmetry indices were similar to those reported in dogs and did not differ between breeds. This is the first study to report GRF values and temporospatial parameters in a healthy MC cat population. However, our results could not confirm differences between normalized PFz and IFz and temporospatial parameters between the breeds. The authors therefore conclude that genetic or other causes may be involved in orthopaedic hind limb pathogenesis seen in MC cats more often than in other breeds.

Diagnostic imaging of the reproductive tract in reptiles is used for gender determination, evaluation of breeding status, detection of pathologic changes, and supervising treatment. Whole-body radiographs provide an overview and support detection of mineralized egg shells. Sonography is used to evaluate follicles, nonmineralized eggs, and the salpinx in all reptiles. Computed tomography is able to overcome imaging limitations in chelonian species. This article provides detailed information about the performance of different imaging techniques. Multiple images demonstrate the physiologic appearance of the male and female reproductive tract in various reptile species and pathologic changes. Advantages and disadvantages of radiography, sonography, and computed tomography are described.

Turtles have the unparalleled ability to retract their heads and necks within their shell but little is known about the evolution of this trait. Extensive analysis of neck mobility in turtles using radiographs, CT scans, and morphometry reveals that basal turtles possessed less mobility in the neck relative to their extant relatives, although the anatomical prerequisites for modern mobility were already established. Many extant turtles are able to achieve hypermobility by dislocating the central articulations, which raises cautions about reconstructing the mobility of fossil vertebrates. A 3D-model of the Late Triassic turtle Proganochelys quenstedti reveals that this early stem turtle was able to retract its head by tucking it sideways below the shell. The simple ventrolateral bend seen in this stem turtle, however, contrasts with the complex double-bend of extant turtles. The initial evolution of neck retraction therefore occurred in a near-synchrony with the origin of the turtle shell as a place to hide the unprotected neck. In this early, simplified retraction mode, the conical osteoderms on the neck provided further protection. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 324B: 230–243, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

SUMMARYElephants' low-frequency vocalizations are produced by flow-induced self-sustaining oscillations of laryngeal tissue. To date, little is known in detail about the vibratory phenomena in the elephant larynx. Here, we provide a first descriptive report of the complex oscillatory features found in the excised larynx of a 25 year old female African elephant (Loxodonta africana), the largest animal sound generator ever studied experimentally. Sound production was documented with high-speed video, acoustic measurements, air flow and sound pressure level recordings. The anatomy of the larynx was studied with computed tomography (CT) and dissections. Elephant CT vocal anatomy data were further compared with the anatomy of an adult human male. We observed numerous unusual phenomena, not typically reported in human vocal fold vibrations. Phase delays along both the inferior–superior and anterior–posterior (A–P) dimension were commonly observed, as well as transverse travelling wave patterns along the A–P dimension, previously not documented in the literature. Acoustic energy was mainly created during the instant of glottal opening. The vestibular folds, when adducted, participated in tissue vibration, effectively increasing the generated sound pressure level by 12 dB. The complexity of the observed phenomena is partly attributed to the distinct laryngeal anatomy of the elephant larynx, which is not simply a large-scale version of its human counterpart. Travelling waves may be facilitated by low fundamental frequencies and increased vocal fold tension. A travelling wave model is proposed, to account for three types of phenomena: A–P travelling waves, ‘conventional’ standing wave patterns, and irregular vocal fold vibration.

This report describes three cases of bilateral macrophakia in 3-, 5-, and 9-year-old cats, respectively. All cats were presented because of visual deficits. Ophthalmic examination revealed macrophakia (the vitreous was replaced by the lens) and retinal changes (tapetal hyper-reflectivity, attenuation of retinal vessels, and retinal folds) in all cats. In addition, bilateral subconjunctival orbital fat prolapse in one cat and microphthalmos in another cat were present. To confirm the ophthalmologic diagnosis of macrophakia, gross pathology examination in one cat and ultrasound examination in another cat were performed.

Discus (Symphysodon discus) maintained in aquaria are held in a wide range of water parameters and subjected to many different feeding regimes. In a pilot study, four groups of discus (mean length 12.1 cm, mean weight 57.3 g) were submitted to a radiographic examination to assess the skeletal structure of the vertebral column under defined environmental conditions. Water temperature was 30°C for all groups. Two groups were held at

The Spanish ribbed newt Pleurodeles waltl shows a bizzare defensive mechanism against predators. X-ray analysis before and after a simulated threat shows that this newt rotates its ribs anteriorly. The maximum measured angle to which the ribs moved was 65°. This forward movement causes the sharply pointed rib tips to lacerate the body wall and project freely from the sides of the trunk as spines. Light microscopy shows the microanatomy, and computed tomography shows the 3D morphology of these unusual weapons. They are ‘spear-shaped’ and hollow proximally, massive distally and are connected to the corresponding vertebra by a well-developed, two-headed joint. The skin in the penetration areas lacks permanent pores through which the ribs could be projected and is pierced de novo by every antipredator posturing. This investigation provides new insight into the functionality of a highly complex, integrated and unusual defensive strategy.

The feeding apparatus of the fringed turtle Chelus fimbriatus (Schneider, 1783) was studied to elucidate the feeding mechanics of an aquatic feeding specialist that has never been investigated in detail before, regarding gross morphology. The skull and hyoid apparatus as well as associated musculature were examined by computer tomography and dissection; the tongue was examined by scanning electron microscopy. The flat skull, the possibility to enormously depress the mandible combined with a cheek-like development, the large, ossified hyoid apparatus, and a well-distensible esophagus enable the turtle to produce an enormous suction force the prey is inhaled with. The jaw adductors are poorly developed in relation to other turtles and thus help keep the skull shape flat; nevertheless, they are able to generate high velocities and exhibit some new performance lines. The hyoid musculature is as well-developed as the hyoid apparatus itself, promoting the high depression velocity that is necessary for good feeding performance. The tongue is nearly reduced and lacks dorsal morphological differentiations. Taking all the morphological features into account, C. fimbriatus is an extremely well-adapted turtle making this species a very interesting object of investigation.

The purpose of this retrospective study is to describe the radiographic morphology of the lesser trochanter as well as possible enthesiopathies of the iliopsoas muscle in Rottweilers, German Shepherd Dogs and Bavarian Mountain Hounds. The normal shape of the lesser trochanter appeared radiological triangular in German Shepherd Dogs and blunt or bump like in Rottweilers and Bavarian Mountain Hounds. Changes indicating an enthesiopathy presented as periosteal blurrings, variation in shape or in isolated bone opacity proximomedial to the lesser trochanter and were categorized into four groups. Three aspects were of special interest: general frequency of radiographic signs of enthesiopathy and potential correlation to sex or to hip dysplasia. In total 736 radiographic studies from Rottweilers (n=311), German Shepherd Dogs (n=133) and Bavarian Mountain Hounds (n=292) have been evaluated. Changes of the lesser trochanter are present in 105 (14.2%) of the radiographic studies. In Rottweilers and Bavarian Mountain Hounds enthesiopathy is significantly correlated to hip dysplasia as dogs classified as “C”, “D” and “E” were merged as one group. Regarding gender disposition no correlation was found. Computed tomography (CT) was additionally available in nine dogs and confirmed radiographic findings. The results of this study could be of major interest in the selection process of service, working and sports dogs as enthesiopathies of the iliopsoas muscle occurring in adolescent dogs might act as a life-long weak points, but additional data is needed to evaluate clinical relevance

SUMMARYThe kinematics of feeding on fish have been studied in the aquatic feeding specialist Chelus fimbriatus, the fringed turtle, to provide a basic description of complete feeding cycles. Anatomical findings supplement the kinematic results. High-speed video (500 frames s-1) recordings and X-ray film (150 frames s-1) are used to analyse the kinematic variables characterizing head, hyoid, oesophageal and prey movements. The high velocities, especially of mouth opening, the forward thrust of the head and suction of the prey, are unique among turtles and comparable with those of aquatic salamanders and certain fishes (unidirectional feeders, in contrast to Chelus fimbriatus). The expandability of the pharynx and the anterior half of the oesophagus enables a specific type of unidirectional flow, at least during the early stages of the feeding cycle. This considerably improves the feeding performance compared with that of other aquatic turtles. The streamlined shape of the skull, the large hyoid apparatus, the highly reduced tongue and the extremely distensible oesophagus support the kinematics to a great extent, making C. fimbriatus a specialized suction feeder that can be regarded as one endpoint in the feeding evolution of aquatic reptiles.

Avian and reptilian species usually show poor clinical signs for differentiation of various diseases. In most cases, physical examination does not give sufficient information. Diagnostic imaging techniques like radiography, ultrasonography, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging are useful tools for the examination of exotic species. This report decribes the use of computed tomography examinations for various diagnoses of skeletal problems and internal diseases in birds and reptiles. Additional 3-dimensional reconstructions are special imaging features and allow excellent views for demonstration of normal and/or pathologic formations to clinicians and students.

The kinematics of intraoral food transport of Testudo hermanni were investigated by radiographic video analysis. Small lead markers and contrastmedia marked food pellets were used to describe the movements of the hyolingual apparatus, the jaws, and the food passage during feeding events. The feeding cycle is divided into food uptake, several intraoral transport cycles, and finally swallowing of the food. The results show features of a terrestrial feeder highly adapted to herbivorous diet: usage of tongue during ingestion, tongue-based intraoral transport combined with food manipulation prior to swallowing. The tongue of T. hermanni is equipped with long papillae and numerous lingual glands. Roughness of the tongue surface and sticky saliva produce interlocking forces acting on the food which facilitate food uptake, transport, and manipulation. Cineradiographic analysis enables complete documentation of the food passage during feeding events and, combined with conventional video recordings, allows more valid statements about the kinematics of feeding mechanisms.

Five mute swans (Cygnus olor) were presented with inability to stand or with abnormal positioning of a leg. Clinical examinations indicated the possibility of femoral fractures or coxofemoral luxations. The suspected diagnosis was proven by means of computed tomography (CT), while superimposition of gastrointestinal contents or other artefacts limited radiographic diagnosis in three birds. A typical CT sign for lesions of the coxofemoral joint apart from femoral displacement was haemorrhage within the pelvic bones (especially around the acetabulum), found in four of the five birds. Small femoral head avulsion fractures could be detected only with CT.