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		SURGERY

Aseptic preparation of the skin before arthrocentesis in horses
Is it necessary to change the aseptic preparation in horses coming from `dirty` environments, and which preparation can be recommended? These questions are central in this recently published study dealing with the presurgical preparation of the distal interphalangeal joint for arthrocentesis.

Successful treatment of persistent oral papillomatosis with a recombinant oral vaccine
Papillomatosis is a commonly seen problem especially in young dogs. Fortunately, it heals spontaneously in most of the cases. In severe cases, the use of a subcutaneous applied vaccine has been recommended over years. They are very effective in most cases but they can increase the risk to develop squameous cell carcinomas at the injection site. Is the oral vaccine an alternative?

Surgical therapy in cats with severe acute pancreatitis
The incidence of acute pancreatitis in cats is lower than in dogs, but also in this species the disease has a high mortality rate. Does srugical intervention make sense and improve the survival rate in severly affected cats? An interesting question!

Effect of TPLO on the Patellar Tendon Angle
Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) is one of the most popular surgical techniques in dogs at the moment. But this surgery also has influence on other parameters, e.g. the patellar tendon angle (PTA). In this radiographic study on 5 pelvic limb pairs (n=5) obtained from skeletally mature dogs, weighing 2236 kg, this effect was measured.

Reproduction after surgery of vesicovaginal reflux in horses
Vesicovaginal reflux is not too rare in mares and is knonw to reduce fertility. Surgical correction is the therapy of choice but in some cases the results are disappointing. In this brandnew study, the surgical results and fertility of more than 60 mares bred at various intervals relative to surgical management of urovagina were evaluated.

New technique for carpal retinaculum release in horses (case report)
Carpal canal syndrome represents a serious problem especially in racehorses, and it can be very difficult to treat without worsening the whole condition. In this case report, the use of a proximolateral endoscopic portal with a distolateral instrument portal for carpal retinaculum release in a 4-year-old Thoroughbred female horse clinically affected with carpal canal syndrome is reported. Very interesting!

Prognosis after surgical management of sand colic impactions in horses
Surgical intervention in horses with impaction colic is often indicated, and the prognosis depends from various factors. Sand colic is one of the indications for medical therapy for most veterinarians and owners. This retrospective review of the medical records of 41 horses requiring abdominal surgery for sand colic shows that the prognosis is much better than previously thought!

Arginin vasopressin concentration in horses before colic surgery
Have horses before undergoing anesthesia for surgical correction of colic lower plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP) concentrations than healthy horses undergoing anesthesia for arthroscopic surgery? And does their plasma AVP concentrations in response to anesthesia and surgery increase or not, and which indications are there for measuring AVP? Very interesting question which were evaluated in this new study from Finnland.

Cystoscopic-guided laser ablation in ureteral ectopia
Various surgical methods are used to treat ureteral ectopia in both male and female dogs. In this new little study on four dogs a new minimal-invasive technique is tried, a cystoscopic-guided laser ablation of intramural ureteral ectopia. Currently only male dogs are treated with this method. Is it a good alternative to classic surgery?

Treatment of persistent dorsal displacement of the soft palate in racehorses
Caudal descent of the larynx has been proposed to be associated with intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) as it leads to a loss of the seal between the epiglottis and soft palate but further investigation of this theory is required. In this study, the laryngohyoid position of horses with persistent DDSP in comparison to horses with intermittent DDSP and the outcome of treatment were evaluated.

Factors influencing morbidity and mortality in horses with small intestinal volvulus
Small intestinal volvulus unrelated to other causes (e.g., incarceration, lipoma, etc.) can be both a diagnostic and a therapeutic challenge. This study tries to determine historical, physical, and clinical factors that may affect morbidity and mortality in affected horses, evaluating 115 horses between 1 month and 21 years - with interesting results!

Arthrodesis of the Equine Proximal Interphalangeal Joint
Arthrodesis in horses is sometimes indicated and especially in joints consisting of numerous small bones this can become very tricky. This little study compares the biomechanical characteristics, failure mode, and effects of side (left or right limb) and end (forelimb or hindlimb) of different screws in 2-screw, parallel-screw proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis constructs in horses.

Amikacin-joint-implants in horses
The antimicrobial elution characteristics, toxicity, and antimicrobial activity of amikacin-impregnated ferric-hyaluronate implants (AI-FeHAI) for amikacin delivery to the tarsocrural joint of horses was assessed in this experimental study. The in vitro and the in vivo studies both show interesting results and answer the question if this method can be recommended in horses with joint diseases requiring antibiosis...

Laparoscopic mesh hernioplasty in horses
A novel technique for incisional hernioplasty in horses using laparoscopic placement of a prosthetic mesh was performed in 5 horses with ventral median abdominal incisional hernia. How are the results?

Polydioxanone sutures in the repair of equine skull fractures
Until some years ago, skull fractures in horses were an indication for euthanasia. Fortunately, surgical repair is possible in most of the cases nowadays, but the external fixation with plates can be unsatisfactory and unstable. There is another therapeutic option which is less expensive, not too difficult and giving much better results: polydioxanone sutures instead of wires or plate fixation. This very important case series from Australia has been published in December 2008.

Head Position on Radiographic Assessment of Laryngeal Tie-Forward Procedure in Horses
The radiographic assessment of the well-known laryngeal Tie-Forward Procedure in horses is performed commonly. But not every head position gives the same results, even more: the correct position is crucial for the correct assessment. A very important new investigation form the united Kingdom!

Surgical intervention in horses with sand colic
In regions with sandy ground sand colics in horses due to the intake of enormous amounts of sand with the food are commonly seen. Sometimes it is possibel to solve the problem with conservative therapy. As this study from Israel shows, the prognosis after surgical therapy is excellent!

Ultrasound-guided removal of superficial plant awns
Especially in fall, plant awns cause problems in a number of dogs. They often cause a foreign body granuloma or abscess, and their surgical removal can become a real challenge. If the foreign body cannot be localized and completely retrieved, recurrence of the abscess is likely. Ultrasound-guided removal sounds very effective and promising!

Laser surgery in canine interdigital cysts and comedones
Interdigital dermatitis and nodules are common problems in dogs, especially in short coated breeds. Often they lead to chronic changes resulting in recurrent lameness, pain and draining tracts. The treatment can be very frustrating. Is the carbon dioxide laser a good additional therapeutic option?

Nd:YAG laser ablation of an obstructive urethral polyp (case report)
A small dog with an persistent obstruction of the proximal urethra due to an inflammatory polyp. A real challenge for the surgeon! In this case report, the authors used a very elegant technique for ablation of the neoplasia: the Nd:YAG laser.

Meniscal problems in dogs after TPLO surgery
Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO)has become a well-established surgical technique in dogs with ruptured cranial cruciate ligaments. As in every surgery of this problem, meniscal damage associated with the ligament rupture and meniscal tearing after surgery can be a problem. After investigating more than 250 stifle joints after surgery it seems that this risk is very low.

Which clinical findings improve the prognosis in equine peritonitis?
Peritonitis in horses is a life-threatening and fairly common problem. The therapy is very intensive and can be quite expensive, and so many owners and veterinarians would like to know more about the individual prognosis before they allow therapy. Are there really clinical findings that can give informations about the survival without surgery? A very useful new study from Pennsylvania...

Subcutaneous abscess with severe complications due to Clostridium perfringens
A very interesting case report, starting with a problem which is familiar to every veterinarian: a subcutaneous abscess. But the causative organism and the complications occuring although the dog was treated lege artis are very informative!

Kinematic Gait Analysis of the Hind Limb after Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy
Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy (TPLO) has become a very popular surgical technique to repair ruptured cranial cruciate ligaments in dogs. This study identifies and compares the kinematic gait changes occurring in tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) and cranial tibial wedge osteotomy (CTWO) limbs after transection of the cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL). Does the CTWO really lead to better results?

Chiari-Like Malformation with Syringomyelia in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Chiari-Like malformation with syringomyelia in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is not too rarre and is thought to have a hereditary background. Surgery is the therapy of choice. How are the long-term outcomes? A very interesting retrospective clinical study on 15 Cavalier King Charles spaniels undergoing cranial cervical decompression for management of canine Chiari-like malformation with syringomyelia (CM/SM).

Results of cellophane banding of single congenital portosystemic shunts
A simple but very efficous and safe technique is cellophane banding of congenital portosystmic shunts, as this retrospective study on 106 dogs and 5 cats illustrates...

Modified slanted slot versus standard ventral slot for the treatment of cervical disc disease
The surgical approach to the affected disc is most difficult in the cervical region. The `classic` ventral slot has been the method of choice to treat dogs with cervical disc problem over years. This recently published study compares recovery times and complication rates between the `classic` and a modified technique. Which method is the best?

Reconstruction of the lower eyelid in cats with squamous cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma of the eyelids are not too rare in cats with non-pigmented eyelids. Whereas similar regions on the ear flaps can be treated with radical surgery or on the nasal planum can be treated with radiotherapy, the eyelid is a very special area. This novel technique for blepharoplasty allows to cover a tissue defect involving >/=50% of the lower eyelid - and sounds very promising.

Modified lateral surgical approach to the cervical spine in dogs
Surgery of discopathies or other problems in the cervical spine can be a problem since the surgical approach is more difficult than in other areas of the spine. Often a ventral approach is chosen. Would this new modified lateral surgical approach to the cervical spine increase the outcome of dogs with neurologic disorders treated with this technique? A very interesting retrospective study!

Treatment of traumatic cervical myelopathy - novel combination
A traumatic cervical myelopathy after surgery: a worse szenario for veterinarian, patient and owner. What can be done and are the signs like ataxia and tetraparesis reversible? This interesting case report describes a treatment combination of surgery, prolonged positive-pressure ventilation, and physical therapy.

Experimental study of a new vascular graft
Despite refinements in surgical techniques, routine antibioprophylaxis, and anesthesiology, vascular prosthetic infections remain a serious complication of reconstructive vascular surgery. Does this new vascular graft preloaded with rifampin and tobramycin prevent from infections? And what about healing and toxicity? A very interesting recently published study on 16 dogs!

Microsurgical transsphenoidal hypophysectomy in cats
Hypophysectomy is the only causal treatment in pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH). The surgery is well established in dogs. What about cats? Hyperadrenocorticims is much rarer in them than in dogs, but is hypophysectomy also effective in these small patients?

Measurement of angles of abduction for diagnosis of shoulder instability
It has become a standard method in human medicine but it is still rarely performed in dogs: the measurement of angles of abduction for diagnosis of shoulder instability. This very interesting study compares abduction angles of shoulders with medial instability and unaffected shoulders in the same dogs and in age- and breed-matched dogs. The result: Determination of shoulder abduction angles should be included in the diagnostic protocol for forelimb lameness assessment in dogs!

Foramen Magnum Decompression in Dogs with Caudal Occipital Malformation Syndrome
Canine caudal occipital malformation syndrome (COMS) is a rare hereditary problem in certain dog breeds. The therapy of choice is surgery. Is this cranioplasty procedure used in conjunction with foramen magnum decompression (FMD) superior to the established techniques? A very interesting prospective clinical study including 21 dogs with COMS diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Intracranial Arachnoid Cysts in Dogs - new surgical technique
Intracranial arachnoidal cysts are rare malformations in dogs. The diagnosis is made via MRI or CT. This retrospective study describes a technique of decompressive craniotomy with cystoperitoneal shunt (CPS) placement for treatment of canine intracranial arachnoid cyst (IAC), and evaluates the outcome in 4 dogs.

Surgical therapy of hyperaldosteronism in a cat (case report)
An unusual problem caused by an adrenal gland tumor - in most cases this neoplasm leads to hyperadrenocorticism but not to hyperaldosteronism. The clinical signs of the affected cat were very unspecific, like ventroflexion of the neck. Surgical therapy was curative, but very difficult to perform...

Stemcell implantation to repair damaged heart muscle cells
In the first trail of its kind in the world, 60 patients who have recently suffered a major heart attack will be injected with selected stem cells from their own bone marrow during routine coronary bypass surgery. This trial will be performed in Bristol, UK.

Thoracolumbar disc extrusion associated with extensive epidural haemorrhage
The thoracolumbar region is the most common area for disc extrusions. These can be associated with severe hemorrhage requiring excessive hemilaminectomy (from three to seven vertebrae), otherwise the prognosis is much worse than in animals without hemorrhage. Important to know before one starts the `normal` surgery!

Risk factors affecting the outcome of surgery for atlantoaxial subluxation in dogs
Atlantoaxial subluxation is seen mostly in small or toy breeds, and the severity of the mechanical problem and the associated neurological deficits may vary. Often surgical stabilisation is the therapy of choice, but not every surgery is effective. This study on nearly 50 dogs gives good evidence which risk factors for successful surgical management of dogs with atlantoaxial subluxation (AAS) need to be considered. A very important investigation!

Prevalence of UTI in dogs with surgically treated type 1 thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusion
Disc extrusions which require surgical intervention are very common in small animal practice. Other associated problems like UTI (urinary tract infections) sometimes become neglected in these patients. How common do they really occur and are there any risk groups? The results are very interesting...

Liposuction for weight loss in a dog with severe hip osteoarthritis
Liposuction is routinely performed in humans - mostly for cosmetic reasons. In this very special case the method was used for weight reduction in a dog with severe orthopedic problems. A very interesting case report from Leipzig, Germany!

Intrathecal Amikacin Administration on Digital Flexor Tendon Sheath Synovial Fluid in Horses
Tendovaginitis sometimes occurs in horses and can be difficult to treat. This recently published study determines the effect of intrathecal amikacin administration and repeated tenovaginocentesis on the total nucleated cell count (TNCC), total protein (TP) concentration and cytologic characteristics of synovial fluid of the equine digital flexor tendon sheath (DFTS).

Bipolar sealing device versus carbon dioxide laser in the excision of the soft palate
Both are very popular techniques to resect the soft palate. The histopathological comparison which method is less traumatic and faster is really interesting!

Positive intraoperative cultures from canine total hip replacements
A very interesting study which detected positive cultures in 11 out of 27 patients undergoing total hip replacements (THR). It sounds alarming but the results regarding short- and long-term-success are surprising.

Different surgical techniques for idiopathic megacolon in cats
Idiopathic megacolon is not too common in cats but there is only a limited number of non invasive treatments. If they fail, surgery is indicated. Which technique is the best? A very interesting recently published study from Colorado compares biofragmentable anastomosis ring and sutured anastomoses for subtotal colectomy.

Ear diseases leading to inner ear dysfunction
A very interesting summary of ear diseases, one of the most problems seen in daily practice: Inner ear disease can be either primary, with dysfunction of the cochlea or the vestibulum or both, as a result of pathology of the inner ear itself; or secondary as a result of extension of disease from surrounding structures, usually the middle ear. Which diagnostic steps should be undertaken and which therapies are indicated?

Recurrence rate of surgically excised grade II mast cell-tumors
Mast cell tumors are a common problem in dogs and it often happens that they are not diagnosed before surgery. So the question raises after the histopathological diagnosis comes back whether there is a second surgery and/or a radiation therapy indicated. This study gives important informations regarding this decision!

Prognostic factors in multiple cutaneous mast cell tumours
Multiple tumours have a better prognosis. They are associated with a low rate of metastasis and show a good prognosis for long-term survival, when they are excised adequately. This is one of the surprising results of this very informative study from Colorado which was published recently.

Continuous i.v. Infusion of Lidocaine for Treatment of Equine Ileus
Lidocaine is commonly used in dogs with gastric dilatation-volvulus-complex, a situation which can be compared with ileus in horses. It is often discussed if horses benefit from lidocaine infusions or not. This study has an excellent design: It is a prospective double-blinded placebo-controlled trial including 32 animals - and it gives a clear answer.

Cardiac performance after portal hypertension and gastric ischemia
The experimental changes in this study resemble the situation in dogs with gastric dilatation volvulus syndrome (GDV) which tend to develop severe and sometimes fatal arrhythmias even days after surgery. After reading this study these complications are much easier to understand...

Anal approach for excision of primary rectal tumors
A very difficult surgery for sure not for the `normal` practitioner. But it is important to know that this approach can be considered as a viable option for the surgical treatment of selected cases of tumors of the caudal aspect of the rectum in dogs - if performed by an experienced surgeon!

Partial esophagectomy in esophageal sarcomas in dogs
Esophageal malignant neoplasias are less common in dogs than in humans but they occur, and often they represent sarcomas. They are extremely difficult to treat if they are located at the caudal part of the esophagus. An interesting study from Israel describes partial esophagectomy as a therapeutic option.

Thermal cautery in superficial corneal wounds of dogs and horses
Spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects are a common problem in middle aged to older dogs and also sometimes in horses. They can be very frustrating since they show a poor healing tendency. Various therapies are described - what about the use of a thermal cauter?

Competely excised grade II mast cell tumors and radiation therapy
A common treatment protocol: if a cutaneous mast cell tumor is diagnosed, it is excised as soon as possible, with wide margins, and after the surgery an adjuvant radiation therapy is started. This might not be indicated in the majority of dogs with complete surgical excision, as this interesting study illustrates...

Osteoarthritis in the stifle joint after various surgical techniques to repair CCL rupture
It is strongly recommended to do surgical repair if a rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is diagnosed in dogs. But osteoarthritis developes also after surgery. Not only individual factors, also the surgical technique determines if a slow or a more rapid development of these changes has to be expected. A very informative study with surprising results!

PTIO versus TPLO in ruptured cranial cruciate ligaments
Rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament is seen daily in small animal practice. Surgery is recommended, and various techniques are described. The TPLO (tibial plateau levelling osteotomy) has become very popular over the last years but requires special and expensive equipment. Now the newest surgical technique is proximal tibial intraarticular ostectomy (PTIO) which does not require special instruments. Is it comparable to TPLO? An important question - especially before buying the TPLO equipment...

Pre-operative carprofen versus long-acting sufentanil for analgesia after ovariohysterectomy
Analgetic agents have become standard after many surgical procedures including ovariohysterectomy. Sometimes they are already applicated before surgery. In this new study, two different protocols and substance classes are compared. Is the opioid superior to the NSAID?

Local anesthetic delivery system for dogs after total ear canal ablation
It is well known that surgery in the ear region is very painful and that good anesthesia is mandatory for several days after surgery. Different protocols are described currently. Can this new one, basing on a completely new principle, be used as an alternative to i.v. morphine infusions?

Diabetes mellitus and cataracts: early intervention is recommended
Bilateral cataract formation is commonly seen in dogs with diabetes mellitus and is often neglected by owner and/or veterinarian. The wrong decision, as this new study illustrates: 30 of the 40 `cataract eyes` developed a spontaneous rupture of the lens capsule - before a surgery was performed...

Surgery alone or surgery plus chemotherapy in feline injection-site lymphosarcomas?
A very important question, since these neoplasias are seen on a regular base by every small animal practitioner. This very interesting study compares both therapeutic approaches on 69 cats - with a very surprising result!

Elective phacofragmentation and the corneal thickness in dogs
Phacofragmentation has become a standard procedure in cataract surgery. But who knows what happens to the corneal thickness after this procedure? This recently published study tries to characterize the short- and intermediate-term effects of elective phacofragmentation on central corneal thickness (CCT) - with surprising results!

Preoperative radiotherapy in vaccine-induced feline fibrosarcomas
Radical surgical excision with wide margins is the therapy of chocie in feline vaccine-induced fibrosarcomas, and it seems that the combination with chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy improves the prognosis. But as this study on nearly 100 cats shows it is worth considering radiotherapy before, not after surgery!

83% of the owners satisfied with mandibulectomy
Cats with oral and in the most cases malignant tumours: What is the best to recommend the owners. Many veterinarians refuse to give the mandibulectomy as an therapeutic option because they assume that the owners will never allow to do such a surgery. But surprisingly they often do, and even with a short survival time most of the owners are satisfied with the result of the surgery, as this brandnew study shows...

Histomorphometry of Fragmented Medial Coronoid Process in Dogs
A fragmented processus coronoideus medialis is commonly seen in small animal practice, especially young male dogs of large or giant breeds are affected. Less is known about the question if fatigue microdamage is associated with fragmented medial coronoid process (FMCP).
This brandnew study compares affected and normal coronoid processes. Very interesting!

Complications Associated with Corrective Surgery for Patellar Luxation in Dogs
Patellar luxation is a common hereditary problem especially in small and toy breeds, and many animals show a bilateral problem. The surgery of patellar luxation is a routine procedure which is performed in many small animal practices and clinics. This interesting study reviews both surgical techniques and postoperative complications associated with correction of patellar luxation in more than 100 dogs.

Cricothyroid Muscle Function and Vocal Fold Stability in Horses
Vocal fold instability and collapse sometimes occurs in horses and can cause mild to severe problems when the animals are exercised. This interesting study determines (1) if the cricothyroid muscle had respiratory-related electromyographic (EMG) activity that increased with respiratory effort and (2) if bilateral cricothyroid myotomy resulted in vocal fold instability and collapse in exercising horses.

First versus third generation of pulse oximeters
Pulse oximetry is a standard procedure to control anesthetized animals. Currently the third generation of oximeters entered the market. Are the newer the better, and how much better are they? An interesting prospective study with surprising results!

Torsion and volvulus of the transverse and descending colon in a dog (case report)
A very interesting case - a dog with signs of a gastric dilatation/volvulus that had been surgically treated for this problem only 2 months ago. And at the time of the second presentation it had developed a torsion of parts of the colon, a problem, which is much more common in horses. An unusual and interesting case from the Royal Veterinary College.

Which parameters are reliable diagnostic tools for septic peritonitis?
An important but difficult question - septic peritonitis in dogs and cats is a life-threatening condition and should be diagnosed as early and accurate as possible. In this study, different parameters that can be measured quick in the in-house-lab are evaluated, e.g. bicarbonate, lactate and glucose. And one was found to be simple, quick and reliable enough...

Surgical correction of atresia ani in two dogs
Atresia ani is a rare congenital defect which is described in various mammals including humans. The therapy of choice is surgical correction. Which technique is the best at the moment, at least for puppies? A very interesting report of two cases.

Laparoscopic Obliteration of the Nephrosplenic Space in Horses
The nephrosplenic space in horses is one of the areas which can be affected by severe and life-threatening colics. Is it possible to obliterate the area via laparascopy as a prevention? An interesting descriptive experimental study from the USA.

Intraoperative Use of Ultrasonography During Continuous Dorsal Laminectomy in `Wobblers`
The `Wobbler syndrome`, a congenital caudal cervical vertebral instability and malformation (CCVIM), is still a problem in certain breeds e.g. Doberman pinscher and Great Dane. Surgery is the therapy of choice for many years. Intraoperative ultrasound imaging technique during dorsal laminectomy in 2 dogs with CCVIM is described in this brandnew article, and it offers a lot of advantages.

Crevice Corrosion of Implants after TPLO
TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) has become a standard surgery in dogs. A fascinating technique with good results, but are the implants that are used also satisfying? This study describes corrosion discovered on implants recovered from dogs after they underwent TPLO years ago. And it shows that the substances which are released during corrosion might cause disease. Very interesting!

Medial Meniscal Release on Tibial Translation after TPLO
TPLO has become a very popular surgical technique to treat cranial cruciate ligament rupture in dogs. This brandnew experimental study on 31 dogs evaluates the biomechanical effects of medial meniscal release (MMR) and medial, caudal pole hemimeniscectomy (MCH) on joint stability in the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL)-deficient canine stifle before and after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO).

Rhinotomy plus azoles in canine nasal aspergillosis
The diagnosis of nasal aspergillosis in dogs is very difficult, and the therapy can be very frustrating. Is the combination of oral itraconazole, local enilconzole and rhinotomy the therapy of choice? An interesting study from Belgium.

Gastrocutaneous fistula in a dog
A non-healing wound at the caudal thorax wall in a middle-aged dog. Of course a fistula caused by a foreign body is one of the most likely differentials. But in this dog, the foreign body came from the stomach, and just its removal was not enough. A very informative case report!

Fatal hemothorax after removal of an esophageal foreign body (case report)
Foreign bodies in the esophagus of dogs are seen in small animal practice from time to time. Mostly they are bones or fragment of bones and are located at the apertura thoracis. Endoscopic removal is performed whenever possible, and the most animals survive this procedure. But not all, as this impressive case report demonstrates...

Various intranasal sedatives in canaries
Canaries are patients which are difficult to anesthesize - as well by injection as by inhalation. The intranasal application seems to be a fascinating alternative. Can it be recommended? It can, as this new prospective randomized study shows.

Disciplines

Efficacy and Safety of Preoperative Etodolac and Butorphanol in Dogs
Ovariohysterectomy is one of the most performed surgeries in small animal medicine. Nearly everybody has `his` or `her` preferred anesthesia including premedication. But this brandnew article gives interesting alternatives in premedication.

Morphine administration in horses undergoing upper respiratory tract surgery
Morphine is a standard medication in anesthesia of horses. This very interesting prospective, randomized clinical study gives interesting informations about the effect of morphine administration on commonly monitored cardio-respiratory variables and recovery quality in horses undergoing anaesthesia and surgery.

Partial foot amputation in dogs
Is it a therapy that can be recommended if the patient shows malignant neoplasma of digit or feet, or is a complete amputation the therapy of choice? A very important question since malignant neoplasias in this region are quite common.

Changes in bone and soft tissue after surgery of cranial cruciate ligament rupture
A standard surgery especially in large and giant dogs: repair of the rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament. But who knows what happens with the bone and soft tissue after surgery? A very interesting recently published study from the University of Tennessee.

Transpelvic urethrostomy (TPU) in cats - long-term results
Obstructions of the lower urinary tracts are common in cats, especially in male cats, and they often need surgical intervention. Is this new technique which is a modified subpubic urethrostomy technique a feasible alternative with acceptable long-term results? A very interesting prospective clinical study from France.

Suture Anchor versus Toggle Rod for Toggle Pin Fixation of Coxofemoral Luxations
Coxofemoral luxations belong to the standard problems in small animal practice. Only reposition is not enough in most of the cases - they need a fixation. Which material is used best for the toggle pin fixation, one of the most popular techniques in this problem? A very interesting study from Mississippi State University.

Hematogenous septic arthritis in dogs- is surgery mandatory?
A very important question - most veterinarians have been told that this disease must be treated by the combination surgery/antibiotics. But this very interesting study shows that in most cases conservative and intensive therapy with appropriate antibiotics is sufficient...

Perioperative survival rates after surgery for diaphragmatic hernia in dogs and cats
Diaphragmatic hernias are common emergencies in small animal practices and clinics. Is it important to do surgery immediately or can this procedure become determined to a later time? The results of this study are clear: the chances are much better when the surgery is performed within 24 hours after admission - and this fact needs to be discussed with the owner of the affected animal...

Results of vulvoplasty in 34 dogs with recessed vulva
A common problem especially in large and obese dogs: a recessed vulva causing problems like intertrigo, chronic urinary tract infections, pollakisuria etc. Not all owners accept to clean the area one to several times a day. Are they satisfied with the results when they decided to have vulvoplasty done? The majority (82 %) in this retrospective study is...

Treatment of traumatic triceps tendon avulsion in a cat
Not a very common scenario, the avulsion of the triceps tendon in a young cat. But which kind of surgery can be recommended? A succesful and interesting case report from Vienna.

Increased incidence of postanesthetic myopathy in halothane-anesthetized horses
This is the summary of an 8 year period in a large clinic: although there have been a lot of clinic improvements, an increased incidence of postanesthetic myopathy (PAM) was observed in horses undergoing anesthesia. Why? A request was made for an independent anesthesiologist to examine possible reasons for this increase. A very interesting and important article - halothane is still used in equine medicine...

Thyroid carcinoma in dogs - is surgical resection sufficient?
An important question - thyroid carcinomas in dogs are not too common and can be extremly difficult to resect. So it is important to know before planning surgery which prognosis and which concurrent therapy should be recommended to the owner.

Long-term radiographic comparison of TPLO versus extracapsular stabilization
TPLO (tibial plateau leveling osteotomy) is a very popular new technique to treat the ruptured cranial cruciate ligament in the dog. Is it really better than older techniques, e.g. extracapsular stabilization? A very informative study compares these two methods of surgical management of cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury in 66 large-breed dogs using a radiographic osteoarthrosis (OA) scoring system.

Vaccine-induced rhabdomyosarcoma in a cat
Vaccine-induced fibrosarcomas are well-known in feline practice. This is a very interesting other vaccine-induced problem: a rhabdomyosarcoma which also invaded the spine and caused metastases in the lung.

Percutaneous endoscopic versus surgically placed gastrostomy tubes
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tubes are very popular in human medicine but less in small animal medicine. If a gastrostomy tube is indicated, it is placed surgically in most dogs and cats. Is it really necessary, and how are the complications if both techniques are compared? A very interesting study performed on nearly 100 patients.

Polyostotic lymphoma in a dog (case report)
Lymphomas belong to the most common malignant neoplasias in dogs. But they normally do not affect bones at the first site. A very fascinating case report of a dog presented with signs of cervical discopathy.

Results of Right-Sided Prophylactic Gastropexy Via a Grid Approach
Gastric torsion remains a common problem in certain dog breeds and still belongs to the most common reasons for death. Many dog owners ask for prophylactic surgery to protect their pet. Is this minimalinvasive technique not only quick and easy but also effective? It seems so.

Gastric adenocarcinomas and leiomyosarcomas
Gastric adenocarcinomas and leiomyosarcomas are occasionally seen in dogs. How often and where do they metastasize, how are metastases detected best, and how is the long-term progrnosis? These questions and many others are answered in this excellent retrospective study.

Colorectal plasmocytomas - how do they behave?
Colorectal plasmocytomas are uncommon neoplasias. But when they occur, it is impotant to know how to treat them best: Just wait and see? Do a normal resection or a resection with wide margins which is very difficult in this region? A very informative recently published study.

Anderson Sling Suspension System for Horses after General Anesthesia
Complications in the wake-up phase after general anesthesia in horses are common and often severe, like fractures of the legs, the pelvis etc. Much effort is made to develop system to decrease the risk in the recovery phase. The Anderson Sling Suspension System seems to be a good prevention for the horses, as this new study demonstrates.

Pustular calicivirus dermatitis on the abdomen of two cats after routine ovariectomy
Calicivirus infections in cats are well-known to every small animal practitioner. Normally they affect the upper respiratory tract. But these two cats showed a very unusual manifestation of a calicivirus-induced dermatitis: the abdomen, after routine ovariectomy. An extremely interesting case report from Belgium!

Intravenous anaesthesia in horses using medetomidine and propofol
What is the `optimal` anaesthesia for horses? A difficult question. At least medetomidinepropofol infusions for total intravenous anaesthesia, as evaluated in this brandnew study, seem to be a very suitable option in horses.

Oral doxycycline, niacinamide and prednisolone in bilateral nodular granulomatous conjunctivitis
The combination of doxycycline and niacinamide is commonly used to treat certain autoimmune or immune mediated skin problems in dogs. But obviously it can also be very helpful to treat ocular diseases like a nodular granulomatous conjunctivitis of the third eyelid. A very interesting case report from Australia.

Bacterial meningoencephalitis and ventriculitis caused by migrating grass awns
Plant foreign bodies in feet, nose or ears are very common in certain breeds. Fortunately, in most cases the detection and removal of the foreign body is curative. But if plant foreign bodies start to migrate to the brain the sequela are fatal, as this very impressive recently published case report illustrates...

New perineural injection technique for the lateral palmar nerve in horses
Perineural injection is commonly indicated in the diagnosis of lameness in horses. Unfortunately, the perineural injection of the lateral palmar nerve can lead to inadvertent injection into the carpal synovial sheath, even by experienced veterinarians. This new technique seems to be much safer!

Fascia lata autografts to repair urethral defects in dogs
Urethral defects are sometimes seen in small animal practice, often due to trauma. Which technique is quick and effective to close such defects? Fascia lata autografts seem to be a good choice, as this new experimental study from Turkey shows.

Facemask versus laryngeal mask airway in rabbits during isoflurane anesthesia
Rabbits have become very popular pets and their anesthesia still can be a challenge. This brandnew study was performed to determine whether a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) provides a better airway than a facemask in spontaneously breathing anesthetized rabbits, and to test if it can be used for mechanically controlled ventilation.

Hemoptysis in dogs - the most common reasons
Dogs with hemoptysis are seen as emergencies in most cases. Important to know which differentials are the most likely. This very informative study on 36 dogs gives interesting new insights!

Laryngeal paralysis in cats
Laryngeal paralysis is a well-known problem in certain dog breeds, espcially in animals with hypothyroidism. But the problem also occurs in cats, and the disease seems to be more common than previously thought. A very interesting summary of 16 cases!

Osteosarcoma 11 years after TPO
TPO (triple pelvic osteotomy) has become a very popular and effective therapy in dogs with severe hip dysplasia. Are these dogs at an increased risk to develop osteosarcomas later in their life? A very interesting case report!

Analgetic effect of meloxicam and carprofen after ovariohysterectomy
Postoperative analgesia has become very important in both human and veterinary medicine since it is proven that pain has negative effects on wound healing. In this recently published study two very popular analgetics, meloxicam and carprofen, have been given for 72 hours after ovariohysterectomy. Both showed good results...

Two simple surgical techniques for internal stabilisation of the sacrococcygeal region
This article has already a promising title, since the stabilisation of fractures and luxations in the sacrococcygeal region is often necessary in both dogs and cats, but the results after surgery are sometimes disappointing. 33 animals were included in this study.

Laser application in canine corneal diseases
The use of different lasers has become very popular in human medicine of the last decade. Often the owners ask for this technique if neoplasias especially in the face or on the eyelids have to be removed. This article compares three different lasers which can be used on the canine cornea and gives recommendations for the best indications of each. Very informative!

Surgical therapy of a severe combined congenital cranial defect
Certainly not a `routine` case to do surgery on: A young miniature dachshund with a combined hydrocephalus, syringohydromyelia, and a ventricular cyst. Does it make sense to do surgery on such an animal and what can be done?

CO2-Laser for Meibomian gland adenomas in dogs
Meibomian gland adenomas are common neoplasias in older dogs which often require surgical excision. Various techniques have been described during the last decades. Is the CO2 laser a good choice? It seems so!

Laparoscopic ovariectomy in horses
Minimally invasive surgery in the horse is a well-accepted technique. New techniques offer more post-operative comfort and a rapid return to work. In this excellent article, one of the leading specialists in this field gives an overview. Extremely informative!

New Investigational Interlocking Nail in Comminuted Diaphyseal Tibia Fractures
Comminuted diaphyseal tibial fractures in dogs are extremely difficult to treat. In this recently published article a new and very promising surgical technique is described.

Postoperative complications of lens surgery in dogs
Lens surgery has become a standard therapy in veterinary ophthalmology. Different surgical procedures have been described. This interesting publication describes the most common complications, basing on 140 cataract extractions...

Surgical therapy of chylothorax via omentalization
`The omentum is the surgeon´s friend` - but it is surprising that this friend is also an effective help in the surgical therapy of a chylothorax! At least in the cat which is described in this case report...

Postoperative results of vulvoplasty in dogs
A juvenile or recessed vulva can lead to numerous problems, most common recurrent urinary tract infections, perivulvar dermatitis and urinary incontinence. Therapy of choice is surgical vulvoplasty - but do the results really satisfy the owners?

Cervical expanding hematomas in five littermates
Cervical expanding hematomas have been described in men but are at least very uncommon in dogs. This interesting case report described five pupies of the same litter with the same problem which could be treated with very good results...

Spinal arachnoid cysts in dogs
Not a common reason for neurological deficites in dogs, but sometimes very hard to diagnose. This retrospective study collected the data of 17 dogs with this diagnosis and tried to find the `classic` patient regarding age, breed and clinical symptoms and the localisation of the cyst. Very helpful in the daily practice!

Successful heart surgery in a dog with combined congenital defects
Congenital heart defects sometimes occur in small animals as well as in children. In contrast to human medicine, often the puppies are euthanized or they die in early life. This brandnew case report from Japan shows that even multiple congenital heart defects can be corrected succesfully in veterinary medicine.

Results of surgical excision of vaccine-induced fibrosarcomas in cats
Vaccinations are performed to protect the animal from various infectious diseases. A lot of discussions have been raised because there is a risk to create malignant neoplasia with the subcutaneous vaccine application in some cats. Is surgery the therapy of choice once such a neoplasia is diagnosed?

Fat embolism after cemented arthroplasty in dogs
Total hip-replacement has become a standard surgery in men and in dogs. The most serious and well-known complication is an often fatal fat embolism. But where does the intravascular fat come from? A very interesting question which is cleared in this experimental study.

Recession sulcoplasty in three foals with patella luxation
Patella luxation is commonly seen in small animal practice. Often small dogs and toy breeds are affected, showing medial luxation in most cases wheras large dogs tend to show lateral luxation. But this problem can also occur in foals - and they behave like large dogs, showing lateral luxation. Also in these cases surgical correction is the therapy of choice.

Retrobulbar malignant fibrous histiocytoma in a dog
Retrobulbar neoplasias are sometimes diagnosed in dogs and are sometimes difficult to treat. In this very interesting case report, surgical orbitotomy as the therapy of choice was performed. Still the metastatic potential of this neoplasia remains unclear so the dog might be euthanized because of metastasis.

Surgical therapy of scapular osteosarcomas
Scapular osteosarcomas in small animals are sometimes seen and their therapy is very difficult. Especially surgical therapy is not very popular, and there are not many data describing surgical therapies. But one should consider this therapeutical option at least in selected cases!

Surgical treatment of septic peritonitis with or without drainage in dogs?
Septic peritonitis is one of the emergencies which requires intensive treatment, but despite of this still the mortality rate remains high. Often discussions are made if it is better to close the abdomen or to drain it. One of the interesting results of this study: Surgery plus intensive peritoneal lavage without drainage gave the best results!

Immediate arthrodesis in dogs with severe shearing carpal wounds
Shearing wounds especially on the legs can be the surgeon´s nightmare: they tend to become infected, show delayed wound healing with diverse complications, require skin grafts and so on. An arthrodesis, if done at all, generally is recommended as a second step. Does this new approach, an immediate arthrodesis, improve the prognosis?

Healing of deep digital flexor tenorrhaphy of horses
Five mature horses were included in this experimental study concerning the healing characteristics of deep digital flexor tenorrhaphy within the digital sheath. One important result: If the immobilizing of the deep digital flexor tendon is not optimal, first intention tendon healing cannot be expected.

Partial or complete foot amputation in dogs?
Malignant tumors of the digits occur sometimes in dogs - often they are malignant melanomas or squamous cell carcinomas which sholud be excised widely. The discussion if the whole or a part of the leg or only a digit should be amputated is sometimes controversely even between surgeons. This retrospective study including 11 dogs might help to clear the situation.

Posterior capsule disruption during phacoemulsification
Phacoemulsification is one of the routine techniques in canine eye surgery. This recently published article evaluates dates of 143 dogs to determine the incidence of posterior capsule disruption during surgery and associated postoperative complication rates in dogs undergoing routine phacoemulsification.

The temperature of lavage solution and the body temperature in dogs with celiotomy
Intraoperative abdominal lavage is indicated in many surgical procedures. But what temperature should be chosen for the lavage solution? Often the decision is made empirically. This study compares the effects of room-temperature and heated (43±2°C) solutions in abdominal surgery.

Suture versus wire to close median sternotomy wounds in dogs
Median sternotomy is indicated in most surgical interventions of the chest. But how does one close the sternum best? In men, wires are the standard procedure, in dogs often `normal` sutures are performed. The result of this important study: wires give more stability, they lead to chondral or osteochondral bridging of the sternum wheras suture only showed fibrous union.

Occult Subchondral Osseous Cyst-like Lesions as reason for lameness
Lameness is a very common problem in horses, and it can be hard to find the origin of the problem. One possibility for lameness affecting the hind legs are cysteous lesions in the tarsus which are invisible on X-rays. They need CT or scintigraphy to become diagnosed...

The pre-surgical work-up of tumor patients
The removal of neoplasms is one of the most common surgical techniques. But remember that some of these neoplasms are highly malignant and some types of them cause paraneoplastic syndromes that need to be handled before and during surgery. This excellent summary shows what every surgeon should consider before taking the scalpel!

Alapexy - an uncommon surgery in dogs
Alapexy, the surgical correction of stenotic nares, is sometimes indicated in dogs. In this recently published article a novel and promising surgical technique is evaluated, leading to the optimal improvement of the nare diameter if compared with other surgical techniques.

Intercalary Bone Grafts for Joint and Limb Preservation in dogs with malignant bone tumors
Malignant bone tumors, especially osteosarcomas, are common in large or giant breeds and mainly affect the diaphysis. Although several therapeutic regimen exist, the prognosis remains guarded and most protocols recommend radical amputation of the limb. This brand new surgical technique offers promising therapeutic alternatives - without amputation.

Results of vulvoplasty in dogs
Recessed vulvae are common sources for chronic-recurrent perivulvar dermatitis, urinary tract infections or even urinary incontinence. Often vulvoplasty is recommended to solve these problems by surgery. But how are the long-time results? Are the owners satisfied? This retrospective study gives interesting answers.

Quickert-Rathbun technique for entropion correction in dogs
Correction of entropion is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in small animal practice, also done by non-ophthalmologists. The cosmetic results are not always satisfactory. Is this new technique with a fornix-based suture placement an alternative to the `classic` correction techniques?

Gastric Outflow Obstruction After Ingestion of an Industrial-Strength Wood Glue in a Dog
Ingestion of foreign bodies happens very often in dogs, leading to obstruction of the gastric outflow and requiring surgery in the majority of the cases. This case report describes an uncommon foreign body, but it seems to be more common than previously thought: the ASPCA reports 14 of these cases.

Iridium brachytherapy plus surgery in canine mast cell tumors
Cutaneous mast cell tumors in dogs are frequently seen. Although different therapeutic regimen are described, the results are often not satisfactory. This retrospective study describes a new therapy, a combination of Iridium radiotherapy and surgery. Is this the new therapy of choice?

New surgical technique for rectovaginal fistulas in horses
Postpartal rectovaginal fistulas in horses are sometimes seen and require surgical intervention. This new technique, using a vaginal mucosal pedicle flap, was developed at the University of Leipzig, Germany. It seems a very useful alternative to the established surgical techniques, and one mare foaled subsequently without complications.

Radiographic and clinical changes of the tuberositas tibiae after TPLO
TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) has become a very popular surgical technique over the last few years. But less is known about 2long time effects` after surgery. This article evaluates the data of 219 stifles that underwent TPLO - with very interesting results!

CRP to differentiate pyometra from cystic endometrial hyperplasia
Pyometra is one of the common emergencies in small animal practice, often requiring immediate (surgical) intervention. On the other hand, cystic endometrial hyperplasia is an important differential diagnosis, but the differentiation of both can be a problem. A group from Sweden tried a very popular parameter in human medicine, C-reactive protein, to differentiate both problems.

Surgical contamination of the anterior chamber during lens surgery
Cataract phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation are routine surgical procedures is small animal practice. How high is the risk of intraoperative contamination of the anterior chamber with viable microorganisms and does it perhaps correspond with the patient´s extraocular and nasal cavity floras? Interesting questions, raised and answered in this brand-new article!

TPLO�s in dogs with bilaterally ruptured cruciate ligaments
TPLO´s are commonly performed to treat ruptured cruciate ligaments in dogs. Especially in great breeds ruptured cruciated ligaments tend to occur bilateral. How are the results and the function when this procedure is done on both sides?

New surgical technique for medial patellar luxation
Medial patellar luxation is a common problem in dogs, especially in small or toy breeds. In this recently published article, an arthroscopic release of the medial femoropatellar ligament is described - with good to excellent results in 80 percent.

Cesarean section in the horse: anesthetic recommendations
Cesarean section (C-section) is indicated if vaginal delivery jeopardizes the health of the mare or the foal or if it is likely to impair the mare`s subsequent fertility. But if the indications for C-sections are given: which anesthetic protocol is best for both mare and foal? This excellent article answers this important question.

Arthroscopic surgery on chip fractures in standing horses
Fractures of the proximal phalanx are commonly seen, especially in racehorses and often as dorsoproximal chip fractures. This article describes not only a new technique and the results of an arthroscopic removal of the chip fractures, it also informs about the later `use` of the patients: 91 percent of the racehorses returned to race, more than 75 percent of them to the at least same level!

Radical mastectomy in goats and cows
Gangrenous mastitis, often due to delta toxine producing streptococci, is one of the nightmares of goat owners. Surgical intervention is recommended, but less was published concerning survival rates and complications after therapy. This study from Cornell University evaluates radical mastectomy as a well tolerated and recommendable surgical method.

Comparison of two suture techniques after intercostal thoracotomy
Intracostal thoracotomy is sometimes performed in dogs. The `normal` technique to close the wound is circumcostal suture placement. A group from Colorado compared transcostal suture technique with the `normal` method and found it less painful for the animals.

Preoperative warming to reduce wound infections?
Wound infection after clean surgery is an expensive and often underestimated cause of patient morbidity. The benefits of using prophylactic antibiotics are seen controversially. Is warming the patients an alternative to reduce wound infections?

Double gloves in surgical procedures strongly recommended
This is the result of an Indish study which observed the rate of perforation of the surgical gloves in single and double gloving. An alarming additional observation: 83,3% of glove perforations remain unnoticed!

Pre-surgical check-up: what parameters should be tested?
There are numerous conditions where delaying or avoiding an elective procedure may be sensible. In the author`s practice approximately 10 percent of all presumed-to-be-normal pets have some abnormality that constitutes a rational reason to delay or forego the procedure. Another 11 percent had a blood abnormality that altered the anesthetic program. Which parameters are mandatory before surgery?

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FECAVA Congress 2014
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Circular external fixator to lengthen a dog�s leg

Is radiotherapy in cutaneous grade II mast cell tumors mandatory?

Fatal fat embolism during hip surgery (case report)

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