bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dorsal Decompressive Laminectomy for Treatment of Thoracolumbar Disc Disease in Dogs: A Retrospective Study of 98 Cases
Authors: GAMBARDELLA PAUL C.
Published: February 2008

This study reviews the records of all dogs that underwent dorsal decompressive laminectomy for thoracolumbar disc disease at the Angell Memorial Animal Hospital during a 2‐year period. Findings as to age, breed, sex, and site of disc protrusion did not differ from those published by others. All dogs were operated on within 36 hours of the onset of inability to walk. The overall recovery rate was 80.6%. The recovery rate of dogs that had preoperative sensory perception was 89.5%, but was only 50.0% for those without sensory perception. The most important factor determining recovery rate was the presence or absence of preoperative sensory perception.
Surgical Management of Lateral Luxation and Subluxation of the Canine Radial Head
Authors: GUREVITCH RUSS , HOHN R. BRUCE
Published: February 2008

The causes and pathogenesis of radial head luxation and subluxation are reviewed. A surgical technique is described for repair of the condition that permits direct visualization of the joint, reestablishment of normal joint anatomy by ulnar osteotomy, and stabilization of the radioulnar articulation with a lag screw. Two clinical cases are presented.
Asynchronous Growth of the Canine Radius and Ulna: Surgical Correction following Experimental Premature Closure of the Distal Radial Physis
Authors: OLSON NEIL C. , BRINKER WADE O. , CARRIG COLIN B. , TVEDTEN HAROLD W.
Published: February 2008

Marked lameness and elbow incongruity occurred in seven 21‐week‐old dogs following experimental premature closure of the distal radial physis at 10 weeks of age. Midradial transverse osteotomies and bone plate stabilization performed on five dogs resulted in marked reduction of elbow incongruity and forelimb lameness. Two dogs had no surgery and served as controls for the surgical procedure. At 50 weeks of age the proximal radial articular surface was displaced 5.3 mm farther from the coronoid process in control dogs as compared to dogs having transverse radial osteotomy. Markedly worse clinical, radiographic, and pathologic changes in the control group demonstrated the importance of reestablishing and preserving elbow congruity when treating asynchronous growth of the canine forelimb caused by premature closure of the distal radial physis. The technique described is recommended as one method to treat premature distal radial physeal closure clinically.
Lag Screw Fixation of Rostral Mandibular Fractures in the Horse
Authors: DeBOWES R. M. , CANNON J. H. , GRANT B. D. , NICKELS F. A. , WAGNER P. C.
Published: February 2008

Seven cases of rostral mandibular fractures in the horse are reviewed, A lag screw technique for compression and fixation of rostral mandibular fractures is described. The outcome of all seven cases in this series was extremely favorable. Follow‐up inquiries to either referring veterinarians or owners revealed no cases of orthopedic appliance failure. No evidence of persistent mandibular osteomyelitis or delayed dental eruption was noted. The application of lag screw techniques to rostral mandibular body fractures appears to be an effective surgical treatment.
External Skeletal Fixation of Comminuted Maxillary Fractures in Dogs
Authors: STAMBAUGH JOHN E. , NUNAMAKER DAVID M.
Published: February 2008

An external skeletal fixation technique that was effectively applied on comminuted maxillary fractures is described. With this method, pairs of Kirschner wires and/or Steinman pins were seated into the fracture fragments and the exposed cut ends of the pins were embedded into an acrylic bridge. Excellent stabilization of the fractures was effected and normal oral alimentation was resumed immediately. Healing of the fractures usually occurred within two or three months and the pins were then removed. Three representative cases are presented.
Nasal Septum Resection in the Horse
Authors: TULLENERS ERIC P. , RAKER CHARLES W.
Published: February 2008

The nasal septum was surgically removed from 22 horses with upper airway obstruction caused by thickening and/or deviation of the septum. The most common presenting complaints were a low‐pitched, snoring, respiratory noise and respiratory difficulty during exercise, which usually occurs in young horses. Abnormalities of the septum were most commonly congenital defects or caused by trauma or inflammation secondary to severe respiratory infection.

Diagnosis was made based on history, clinical signs, and results of physical examination. Radiography and endoscopy were useful adjuncts in some horses.

Under general anesthesia, the septum was removed by scalpel and osteotome (19 horses) or by obstetrical wire and osteotome (1 horse). In two horses, the rostral one third of the septum was removed by scalpel alone.

In three horses, the alar folds and floor of the nasal diverticula were removed in an attempt to relieve airway obstruction caused by flattening of the bridge of the nose following removal of the nasal septum.

Follow‐up was obtained on 18 horses: persistent noise during exercise continued in 90%; however, 50% returned to usefulness.
Dorsal Laminectomy in the Horse III. Results in Horses With Cervical Vertebral Malformation
Authors: NIXON ALAN J. , STASHAK TED S. , INGRAM JAMES T.
Published: February 2008

Subtotal dorsal cervical laminectomy was used to relieve spinal cord compression due to cervical vertebral malformation in 16 horses. The majority were Thoroughbred or Quarter Horse males, 1 to 4 years old. The caudal cervical vertebrae were involved in all but two instances. A Funkquist type B laminectomy was performed and the defect filled with a free autogenous nuchal fat graft. All horses recovered from surgery without complication or deterioration in neurological status. Neurological improvement occurred in 12 cases, including six that became sound. Three horses fractured a vertebral articular process and were euthanized. A modification to the shape of the laminectomy was adopted to reduce this complication.
Partial Laryngectomy in the Dog I. Healing and Swallowing Function in Normal Dogs
Authors: HARVEY COLIN E.
Published: February 2008

Laryngeal paralysis was created in normal dogs by sectioning the recurrent laryngeal nerves. The dogs were treated with bilateral vocal fold resection and unilateral partial arytenoidectomy, and sacrificed from 6 hours to 28 days following surgery. Swallowing abnormalities were not found in any of the dogs. Healing by granulation‐epithelialization was complete by 14 days.
Kirschner‐Ehmer Apparatus Immobilization Following Achilles Tendon Repair in Six Dogs
Authors: MORSHEAD DON , LEEDS EDWARD B.
Published: February 2008

Postoperative immobilization is an essential part of the management of Achilles tendon injuries. Results are reported in six dogs managed with the Kirschner‐Ehmer apparatus for immobilization of the tarsus as an alternative to the use of casts or splints. In all six dogs, good to excellent function was restored to the limbs after removal of the Kirschner‐Ehmer apparatus. There were no immobilization or tenorraphy failures.
Tracheal Anastomosis in the Dog Comparison of Two End‐to‐End Techniques
Authors: HEDLUND CHERYL S.
Published: February 2008

Two techniques for tracheal resection and anastomosis were performed and compared in 20 normal dogs. In one technique, cartilage rings were split circumferentially, and the split rings were apposed with simple interrupted sutures that penetrated the annular ligament. In the other technique, the annular ligaments were incised and apposed with simple interrupted sutures placed through the annular ligament and around the adjacent ring. Endoscopy and xeroradiography were used to evaluate the anastomotic sites at 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks postoperatively. Infection, mucus accumulation, coughing, stridor, or anastomotic separations were not seen. Stenosis of the anastomotic site was observed in 80% of the dogs, due to the intraluminal protrusion of epithelialized fibrous connective tissue. The split cartilage technique was easy to perform and resulted in less dorsoventral stenosis than the annular ligament technique.
Dorsal Frontal Fractures of the First Phalanx in the Horse
Authors: MARKEL MARK D. , Jr. BENSON B. MARTIN , RICHARDSON DEAN W.
Published: February 2008

Dorsal frontal fractures of the first phalanx in nine horses are described. All fractures were in hindlimbs, and two horses were affected bilaterally. Of the eleven fractures, seven were incomplete and nondisplaced, one was complete and nondisplaced, and three were complete and displaced. Two horses with complete displaced fractures had their fractures repaired with lag screw fixation combined with open reduction, and the other seven horses were treated nonsurgically.

All horses were sound on the injured limb within 3 to 6 months of the injury. Lag screw fixation was recommended for horses with complete, displaced dorsal frontal fractures in order to reduce the articular defect and help prevent secondary joint changes. Nonsurgical therapy in the form of stall rest with a heavy support wrap resulted in bony healing of the fracture in 4 to 6 months.

Follow‐up was obtained on all nine horses: two were retired for breeding; five performed equal to or better than their previous level of racing performance; one was performing successfully as a combined training horse; and one returned to a lower level of performance due to an unrelated forelimb lameness.
Evaluation of Intestinal Staples for End‐to‐end Anastomosis of the Small Intestine in the Horse
Authors: SULLINS KENNETH E. , STASHAK TED S. , MERO KENDALL N.
Published: February 2008

Segments of jejunum that had been subjected to ischemia 1 month previously were resected en bloc in six horses. Everted end‐to‐end anastomoses were performed by application of double rows of stainless steel staples. The anastomotic sites were examined at 3 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 8 months postoperatively. All but one of the horses experienced colic at some point after the second postoperative week. At 3 weeks, there was extensive adhesion and stricture formation associated with the anastomoses. With increasing time postoperatively, there were progressively less severe adhesions and strictures. At 6 and 8 months, there was separation of the muscularis with noticeable thinning at the anastomotic site.
Holding Power of Orthopedic Screws in Equine Third Metacarpal and Metatarsal Bones: Part I. Foal Bone
Authors: YOVICH JOHN V. , TURNER A. S. , SMITH F. W.
Published: February 2008

The holding power of orthopedic screws in the third metacarpal and metatarsal cadaver bones of foals that were aged from 1 to 14 days was tested. Comparative trials between screws inserted at the same site in contralateral bones from the same foal were performed to compare the holding power of 5.5 mm cortical and 6.5 mm cancellous screws in the metaphysis, and the holding power of 5.5 and 4.5 mm cortical screws in the diaphysis. A MTS servohydraulic tensile testing machine was used to perform screw pullouts at a displacement rate of 19 mm/sec. There was no significant difference between maximum holding power of 5.5 mm cortical screws and 6.5 mm cancellous screws in the metaphysis when expressed as kg per mm of bone width at the screw insertion site (p = 0.097) or as kg per mm of screw thread engaged in the bone (p = 0.17). There was no significant difference in holding power of 5.5 and 6.5 mm screws in the proximal versus distal metaphysis (p = 0.10). The 5.5 mm screws had significantly greater holding power than the 4.5 mm screws in the diaphysis (p = 0.0097). Fixation failure at screw pullout was always due to bone shear. In internal fixation in foal bone, the 5.5 mm screws may be a suitable alternative to 6.5 mm screws in the metaphysis. Use of 5.5 mm rather than 4.5 mm screws is recommended in the diaphysis because of greater holding power.
Nonsurgical Management of Ulnar Fractures in the Horse: A Retrospective Study of 43 Cases
Authors: WILSON DAVID G. , RIEDESEL ELIZABETH
Published: February 2008

Forty‐three cases of nonsurgically managed ulnar fractures in the horse were reviewed. Twenty‐three per cent of the horses were euthanized, 44% survived but were unsound, and 33% of the horses were sound when surveyed 6 months to 11 years following fracture. Best results were obtained when treating distal semilunar notch fractures (70% sound). Prognosis was poorest for horses with fractures of the olecranon affecting the semilunar notch (0% sound).
Lower Extremity Amputation and Application of a Prosthetic Device in a 1‐Month‐Old Calf
Authors: ORSINI J. A. , WARNER ANGELINE , DYSON SUSAN , NUNAMAKER DAVID
Published: February 2008

During correction of a dystocia, a fracture occurred involving the right third and fourth metacarpus of a calf. Application of a plaster cast resulted in devitalization of the limb. The distal limb was amputated, and a prosthetic device capable of periodic lengthening was fitted. The calf was able to walk well 1 month following surgery.
Cecocolic Anastomosis for the Surgical Management of Cecal Impaction in Horses
Authors: ROSS M. W. , TATE L. P. , DONAWICK W. J. , RICHARDSON D. W.
Published: February 2008

Fourteen horses with cecal impaction were treated by cecocolic anastomosis. In nine horses, the anastomosis followed enterotomy and evacuation of the cecal contents, and in two horses it followed saline infusion and massage of the cecum. In three horses, the anastomosis was the only surgical procedure performed. Cecocolic anastomosis was performed between the lateral and dorsal cecal teniae, and the lateral and medial free teniae of the right ventral colon. The anastomosis was hand sutured in five horses. In all other horses, the GIA surgical stapling instrument was used in combination with hand sutured seromuscular layer closures and became the preferred surgical technique. The anastomosis allowed an alternative route for the transit of ingesta from the cecum to the right ventral colon.

Twelve of the 14 horses survived 2 months or longer after surgery (short‐term survival rate, 86%) and 10 horses survived 12 months or longer after surgery (long‐term survival rate, 71%). Early postoperative complications included mild abdominal pain (6 horses), wound infections (3 horses), fatal peritonitis (2 horses), and large colon distention necessitating reoperation (2 horses).
Puncture Wounds of the Navicular Bursa in 38 Horses A Retrospective Study
Authors: RICHARDSON G. L. , O'BRIEN T. R. , PASCOE J. R. , MEAGHER D. M.
Published: February 2008

The medical records of 38 horses with puncture wounds of the navicular bursa were reviewed. Only 12 horses had a satisfactory outcome (breeding or riding). Of the remaining 26 horses, 19 were euthanized, five were sold due to persistent severe lameness, one died, and one was lost to long‐term follow‐up. Different combinations of conservative management prior to surgical debridement and drainage of the navicular bursa were unsuccessful in resolving the condition. Horses that were treated surgically within 1 week of the injury and had a hind leg affected had the best chance of a satisfactory outcome. Additional wound debridement was necessary in 15 horses after initial surgical treatment. The most common complications encountered were navicular bone osteomyelitis and sepsis of the deep digital flexor tendon. Thirteen of 14 horses that had rupture of the deep digital flexor tendon and subluxation of the distal interphalangeal joint had an unsatisfactory outcome. One mare subsequently developed ankylosis of the distal interphalangeal joint and was a useful brood mare. Two horses that had biaxial palmar digital neurectomy because of persistent lameness were later euthanized because of navicular bone fracture and rupture of the deep digital flexor tendon. Results from limited numbers of bacterial cultures and antibiotic sensitivities suggest that penicillin and an aminoglycoside antibiotic should be used as initial antibiotic therapy. Immediate surgical debridement and appropriate antibiotic treatment are recommended as the minimum therapy for penetrating wounds of the navicular bursa in horses.
Clinical and Surgical Parameters in Dogs with Perineal Hernia Analysis of Results of Internal Obturator Transposition
Authors: ORSHER ROBERT J.
Published: February 2008

The results of treatment of 31 dogs with perineal hernia by internal obturator muscle transposition were evaluated by comparing the clinical signs reported by the owner before surgery with those reported 11 or more months following surgery. The severity and frequency of pre‐ and postoperative clinical signs were categorized numerically, and composite scores were obtained for each dog. In addition, the dogs were examined 11 or more months following surgery. The presence or absence of an externally obvious perineal swelling was noted, and rectal examination was performed to detect rectal sacculation and the integrity of the pelvic diaphragm dorsal and ventral to a line drawn between the center of the anus and the ischiatic tuberosity. These results were correlated with the postoperative composite scores. Postoperative complications included wound infection (2), wound seroma (2), rectal prolapse (4), urinary incontinence (2), and flatus as a new postoperative problem (11). The postoperative composite score was significantly lower (improved function) following surgery. Dogs with worse signs preoperatively or bilateral perineal hernia benefited less from surgery. More dogs showed improvement when the operation was performed by experienced surgeons. Factors detected at follow‐up examination that correlated with more severe postoperative clinical signs were perineal swelling, absence of the ventral portion of the pelvic diaphragm, and rectal sacculation. The presence or absence of reformation of the dorsal aspect of the pelvic diaphragm did not correlate with postoperative clinical signs.
Palmar/Plantar Process Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx In 15 Horses
Authors: BUKOWIECKI C. F. , BRAMLAGE L. R. , GABEL A. A.
Published: February 2008

Fifteen fractures of the palmar or plantar process of the proximal phalanx in 15 horses are described. Ten were articular and five were nonarticular. Two modes of therapy were used depending on the location of the fracture. Nonarticular fractures were treated with stall rest or reduction in exercise, and articular fractures were treated with either surgical removal or internal fixation of the fragment. All horses that were operated on were sound within 6 months after surgery. Follow‐up information was obtained on all horses through client questionnaire and race records in the racing breeds (Standardbred and Thoroughbred) and client questionnaire alone is the nonracing breeds (Quarterhorse and Arabian). Fourteen horses returned to an equal or better level of performance than before injury; one horse returned to a lower level of performance.
Electrosurgical Arthrotomy and Excision of Soft Tissue Masses in the Metacarpophalangeal Joint of the Horse
Authors: JANN HENRY W. , FACKELMAN G. E. , KOBLIK P. D. , PERDUE B. D.
Published: February 2008

Electrosurgical arthrotomy and excision of infra‐articular soft tissue masses from the metacarpophalangeal joint was performed in 12 horses. In six of the 12 horses, osteochondral fragments from the dorsoproximal aspects of the first phalanx were also removed. The electrosurgical scalpel afforded excellent intraoperative efficacy for arthrotomy and relatively bloodless excision of soft tissue masses without the need for a tourniquet. There were no complications associated with healing in 11 of the 12 horses. A retraction technique that used careful positioning of a Langenbeck periosteal elevator relative to the collateral ligaments provided access to both medial and lateral margins of intra‐articular masses. With this technique, all masses could be removed through one central arthrotomy incision.
The Radiographic and Histologic Appearance of Controlled Surgical Manipulation of the Equine Periosteum
Authors: CARON J. P. , BARBER S. M. , DOIGE C. E. , PHARR J. W.
Published: February 2008

This study documented the normal histologic features of the equine metacarpal and metatarsal periosteum and characterized its osteogenic response to surgical manipulation. Two periosteal flaps were elevated from the dorsomedial metacarpal and metatarsal diaphysis in each of three limbs of four yearling and four adult lightbreed horses. The superficial metacarpal cortex under the flap was resected with a bone chisel in one‐half of the horses and was undisturbed in the remainder. One periosteal flap in each limb was excised and the other flap was replaced and secured by sutures. All limbs in the horses were radiographed at regular intervals postoperatively. Horses were killed either 30 or 120 days after surgery. Periosteal bone production occurred only at treatment sites of young horses treated by periosteal flap replacement and was limited to approximately 50% of these sites, as determined by radiography and microradiography. Cortical abrasion resulted in an increased incidence of bone production in the periosteum adjacent to the flap perimeter. The histologic features of the periosteum were similar to those reported in other species; young horses had active osteogenesis referable to appositional growth and adults had an inactive periosteum. Histologically, osteogenesis induced by surgery resembled accentuated appositional growth in both yearlings and adults. In the horse, the cambial (osteogenic) layer is included in sharply elevated periosteal flaps. It should be removed in surgical procedures where bone production is to be avoided, and preserved where osteogenesis is desired.
Clinical Results of Surgical Correction of Medial Luxation of the Patella in Dogs
Authors: WILLAUER C. C. , VASSEUR P. B.
Published: February 2008

Thirty‐four dogs that had surgical correction of medial patellar luxation (MPL) in 52 stifle joints were examined after a minimum follow‐up period of 1 year (median, 3.6 years). The dogs were divided into the following three groups depending on their age at the time of surgery: group 1, 3 to 6 months; group 2,8 to 20 months; and group 3,2.2 to 12 years. Two of the dogs in group 3 had ruptured their cranial cruciate ligament in addition to having MPL. The results were based on a clinical assessment of the animal's gait, and physical and radiographic examination of the stifle joints. Six of seven stifle joints evaluated in group 1 had radiographic evidence of moderate to severe degenerative joint disease of the patellofemoral joint, and in two of the joints recurrence of MPL was observed. Failure to maintain reduction of the patellofemoral joint was also observed in 11 of 22 (50%) and 12 of 23 (52%) of the stifle joints in groups 2 and 3, respectively. In the latter groups, mild degenerative joint disease was evident radiographically in stifle joints that had maintained reduction of the patellofemoral joint as well as in those joints that had not maintained reduction. Four of the 34 dogs were consistently (n = 2) or intermittently (n = 2) lame; the two dogs that were consistently lame had cranial instability of the stifle consistent with rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament. In the latter two dogs, the cranial cruciate ligament had been intact at the time of surgery for correction of MPL.
In Vitro Strength of the Suspensory Apparatus in Training and Resting Horses
Authors: BUKOWIECKI C. F. , BRAMLAGE L R. , GABEL A. A.
Published: February 2008

Forty‐eight limbs of 12 freshly euthanized horses were used to generate data on the strength of the equine suspensory apparatus. The point of failure of the suspensory apparatus of each limb was determined. Immediately before euthanasia, 6 of the 12 horses (thoroughbreds and standardbreds) had been engaged in active training or racing, and six horses in stall and/or pasture activity. In the actively training or racing horses, the point of acute failure of the suspensory apparatus was within the proximal sesamoid bones in 20 (83%) limbs (resulting in 17 apical fractures, 2 basilar fractures, and 1 midbody fracture). In the pasture exercised or stalled horses, the point of failure of the suspensory apparatus was either acutely within the suspensory ligament (10 horses, 42%) or, if no acute failure occurred, insidiously within the suspensory ligament (12 horses, 50%). Active training appeared to have a strengthening effect on the suspensory ligament, causing the weakest point in the suspensory apparatus to become the sesamoid bones rather than the suspensory ligament. An average force of 1338 kg (between 1082 and 1673 kg) was needed to fail the suspensory apparatus in this group of horses. In nontraining horses, the site of failure was most often the suspensory ligament. An average force of 1100 kg (between 918 and 1241 kg) used to fail the suspensory apparatus in this group of horses was significantly (p < 0.5) less than in the first group.
Evaluation of Experimental Transection and Partial Excision of the Caudal Cruciate Ligament in Dogs
Authors: HARARI JOSEPH , JOHNSON L. , STEIN LARRY E. , KNELLER STEPHEN K. , PIJANOWSKI GERALD
Published: February 2008

The caudal cruciate ligament (CaCL) of one stifle joint in seven dogs was transected and a 2 to 4 mm section was removed. Six months after surgery, none of the dogs were lame. Thigh muscle circumference, stifle range of motion, and internal tibial rotation in the operated limb were not significantly different from the preoperative measurements or the contralateral, unoperated limb. A caudal drawer motion was consistently present in the stifle joints with a transected CaCL. A radiographic evaluation of the operated stifle joints did not reveal osteoarthritic changes; four of seven stifle joints had an irregular fat pad 6 months after surgery. Results of a joint fluid analysis revealed a slight increase in synovial cells within treated stifle joints; inflammatory cells were not observed. The only gross morphologic change in stifle joints with a severed ligament was enlarged knobby remnants of the CaCL. Articular cartilage defects or osteophytes were not observed. Results of a histologic examination of the CaCL remnants revealed synovial cellular capping and intraligamentous fibroplasia. Based on a limited number of dogs, it was concluded that isolated transection of the CaCL produced minimal clinical and pathologic changes in the stifle joint during a 6 month period.
A Potential Technique Error in Stapled Side‐to‐Side Anastomosis of the Small Intestine of the Horse
Authors: MACKEY VALORIE S. , PASCOE JOHN R. , PETERSON P. ROBIN
Published: February 2008

Anastomotic leakage was noted to occur at the junction of the staple lines used to create the stoma during small intestine side‐to‐side anastomosis. The anastomosis was performed in a clinical equine patient by joining the lateral surfaces of the intestinal segments using a gastrointestinal anastomosis stapling instrument (GIA). The cause of this problem was investigated by performing six anastomoses in the jejunum of a single anesthetized adult horse using the GIA; three anastomoses were created by joining the antimesenteric edges of the bowel segments and three anastomoses were created by joining the lateral surfaces of the bowel segments. Bowel segments were then dissected to examine the stoma and the integrity of the staple lines. No defects were detected in anastomoses performed by joining the antimesenteric edges. Anastomoses performed by joining the lateral surfaces all had a defect at the junction of the double rows of staples used to create the stoma. Such defects would have allowed leakage of fluid and/or ingesta at the anastomotic site.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Microorganisms Isolated from Equine Orthopedic Patients
Authors: SNYDER JACK R. , PASCOE JOHN R. , HIRSH DWIGHT C.
Published: February 2008

Positive cultures were obtained from 60 equine orthopedic cases during a 12 year period (1974–1985). These cases consisted of 34 long or cuboidal bone fractures, 13 arthrotomy/arthroscopy procedures for removal or internal fixation of a fracture, 7 proximal splint bone fractures, and 6 facial or mandibular fractures. Excluding the 13 arthrotomies, only 10 (21%) of the 47 were open fractures. Multiple organisms were isolated from 36 cases (20 long or cuboidal bone fractures, 7 splint bone fractures, 5 mandibular fractures, and 4 intra‐articular fractures). Of the 142 isolates, 35 (24%) were members of the family Enterobacteriaceae, 33 (23%) Streptococcus spp., and 25 (18%) Staphylococcus spp. with the majority being coagulase positive (65%). Other organisms isolated were Pseudomonas spp. (16, 11%), obligate anaerobes (11, 7%), and Actinobacillus spp. (7, 5%). The remaining 10% consisted of Pasteurella spp., Bacillus spp., Corynebacterium spp., Micrococcus spp., and Actinomyces spp. When comparing results between two time periods (1974–1979 and 1980–1985) there was an increase in the percentage of coagulase positive staphylococci isolates resistant to all antimicrobics tested except oxacillin and amikacin, and Escherichia coli isolates were resistant to all but amikacin. For Pseudomonas spp., resistance to gentamicin increased in the second time period (1980–1986). During the initial time period (1974–1979) culture tests for obligate anerobes were not conducted until 1975. No anerobes were cultured during those initial 5 years; however, one third of those isolated after 1980 were resistant to penicillin and ampicillin. There were no cases of apparent acquired resistance against the antimicrobial agents used during therapy when comparing the susceptibility patterns of the organisms cultured perioperatively to those obtained at implant removal.
Axial Pattern Flap Based on the Genicular Branch of the Saphenous Artery in the Dog
Authors: KOSTOLICH MARILYN , PAVLETIC MICHAEL M.
Published: February 2008

Axial pattern flaps based upon the genicular branch of the saphenous artery and medial saphenous vein were developed in eight dogs. On one hind limb of each dog, the experimental flap was raised and immediately transferred to a cutaneous defect created over the lateral aspect of the lower limb distal to the stifle. A control flap was elevated and transferred on the opposite hind limb with the genicular branches of the saphenous artery and vein ligated and divided at the base of the flap. Eighty‐nine per cent of the length of the flap survived in those flaps in which the genicular vessels were left intact, whereas only 54% of the flap's length survived in the control flaps. Postoperatively, all dogs were bearing weight on the limbs normally. The genicular axial pattern flap may have special clinical application in cases of cutaneous defects involving the lateral aspect of the tibia.
Jejunocolic Anastomosis for the Surgical Management of Recurrent Cecal Impaction in a Horse
Authors: ROSS M. W. , ORSINI J. A. , EHNEN S. J.
Published: February 2008

A 5‐year‐old Thoroughbred gelding with recurrent cecal impaction refractory to medical management was treated with a side‐to‐side jejunocolic anastomosis. Cecal impaction did not recur after surgery. The horse gained weight and performed successfully for 14 months, but experienced three episodes of mild abdominal pain between 14 and 20 months after surgery. Mild cecal gas distention and firm ingesta in the colon were detected on rectal examination. The horse's feces remained soft after surgery, except during the colic episodes when dry, firm feces were passed.
A Comparison of the Cutaneous Trunci Myocutaneous Flap and Latissimus Dorsi Myocutaneous Flap in the Dog
Authors: PAVLETIC MICHAEL M. , KOSTOLICH MARILYN , KOBLIK PHILIP , ENGLER STEVE
Published: February 2008

Latissimus dorsi and cutaneous trunci myocutaneous flaps of equal dimension and location were randomly elevated on opposite sides of the thorax in 10 dogs (group 1) and resutured to their respective bed. The procedure was repeated in four additional dogs (group 2); however, the short perforating branches of the thoracodorsal artery and vein were divided at the base of each cutaneous trunci myocutaneous flap, whereas the cutaneous pedicle and underlying cutaneous trunci muscle were divided in the latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flaps to determine subsequent skin survivability and the major source of circulation of each myocutaneous flap. There was little difference in the percentage of skin survival between the latissimus dorsi and cutaneous trunci myocutaneous flaps in group 1 dogs. Circulation to the “skin island” of group 2 latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flaps originated from intramuscular anastomotic connections between the major branch of the thoracodorsal artery entering the latissimus dorsi muscle and the proximal lateral intercostal arteries perforating the muscle. Ligation of the short perforating branches of the thoracodorsal artery resulted in partial skin necrosis in all group 2 cutaneous trunci myocutaneous flaps. Results from this study indicate that it is unnecessary to elevate the latissimus dorsi muscle for major skin flap elevation and survival. The thicker latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap is more difficult to develop surgically and appears to have no clinical major advantage over the more mobile cutaneous trunci myocutaneous flap or the adjacent thoracodorsal axial pattern flap for closure of large skin defects within the radius of flap rotation.
The Effects of Beveling the Margins of Articular Cartilage Defects in Immature Dogs
Authors: RUDD R. G. , VISCO D. M. , KINCAID S. A. , CANTWELL H. D.
Published: February 2008

Eight 4 month old crossbred puppies underwent surgery simulating treatment of osteochondritis dissecans. Both humeral heads were exposed by a caudal approach to the shoulder joint. In one, an 8 mm circular, full‐thickness cartilage defect was created so that the remnant cartilage margin was perpendicular to the joint surface. In the other, a similar 8 mm defect was created with the chondral margins beveled at approximately 45°. There was no clinical lameness in any of the dogs. At necropsy after 16 weeks, the cartilage defects with beveled edges were significantly larger (11.0 ± 0.6 mm SD) than those with perpendicular edges (8.0 ± 0.1 mm SD), because of the beveling (p = 0.0039). Fibrocartilage was present but did not always completely fill the defects. Articular surfaces of the glenoid cavities suffered erosion and fibrillation more frequently opposite beveled defects than opposite defects with vertical walls (p = 0.0312). This was presumably due to the larger apposing defect. It was concluded that the cartilage margins surrounding a chondral defect should not be beveled.
Urodynamic Alterations after Prostatectomy in Dogs without Clinical Prostatic Disease
Authors: BASINGER R. RANDY , RAWLINGS CLARENCE A. , BARSANTI JEANNE A. , OLIVER JOHN E. , CROWELL WAYNE A.
Published: February 2008

Prostatectomy in dogs with clinical prostatic disease has been associated with a high incidence of urinary incontinence. In this study, urodynamic alterations after prostatectomy in 10 dogs without clinical prostatic disease were evaluated. Measurements of residual urine volume, simultaneous urethral pressure profilometry and electromyography, and carbon dioxide cystometry were made before and 14 and 20 weeks after prostatectomy. Voiding was observed daily for 20 weeks after prostatectomy. All dogs remained continent for 20 weeks after prostatectomy, and only minor urodynamic abnormalities were noted. Castration had no effect on urodynamic changes associated with prostatectomy. Prostatectomy produced minimal functional changes in dogs without clinical prostatic disease.
Effect of Distal Femoral Growth Plate Fusion on Femoral‐Tibial Length
Authors: WAGNER STANLEY D. , DESCH JOSEPH P. , FERGUSON H. RODNEY , NASSAR RAJA F.
Published: February 2008

Unilateral distal femoral epiphysiodesis in seven 10 week old crossbred Doberman Pinscher littermates resulted in a significant (p ≤ 0.0001) femoral length deficit of 23.5% without clinically detectable alterations in gait up to 42 weeks after surgery. In addition to compensatory hyperextension of the stifle joint, the ipsilateral tibia showed significant (p ≤ 0.0001) acceleration in longitudinal growth. The combined femoral‐tibial length at necropsy was still significantly shorter (p ≤ 0.0001) in the treated leg than in the control leg despite the increased tibial growth. Unlike other species, neither of the other two femoral growth plates produced any significant compensatory increase in length after fusion of the distal growth plate. The femoral condyles of the treated legs rotated caudally and degenerative joint disease developed in all stifle joints of the treated legs. No contralateral limb abnormalities were evident radiographically.
Peritoneal Fluid Analysis in Ponies after Abdominal Surgery
Authors: SANTSCHI ELIZABETH M. , GRINDEM CAROL B. , TATE LLOYD P. , CORBETT WAYNE T.
Published: February 2008

Ten student surgery ponies were subjected to exploratory laparotomy. Abdominal paracentesis was performed preoperatively and daily postoperatively for 6 days, then the ponies were euthanatized and necropsied. Initial baseline peritoneal fluid parameters were within established reference limits. Postoperatively, the total leukocyte count and total protein in the peritoneal fluid rose and remained elevated for the 6 days of the study. Complete blood counts (CBCs) were performed preoperatively and on days 1 and 4 postoperatively. On day 1, a stress leukogram with a mild inflammatory component developed, but by day 4, the CBCs were within normal limits. The mean plasma fibrinogen levels, which were determined daily, peaked on day 4.
Craniolateral Approach to the Canine Brachial Plexus
Authors: SHARP N. J. H.
Published: February 2008

A craniolateral approach to the canine brachial plexus that provides good exposure by transection of the omotransversarius and, if necessary, the scalenus muscles is described. The technique facilitated diagnosis of brachial plexus tumors in three dogs and probable brachial plexus neuritis in a fourth dog.
Capnographic Monitoring during Anesthesia with Controlled Ventilation in the Horse
Authors: CRIBB PETER H.
Published: February 2008

Forty‐five horses were maintained on halothane or isoflurane anesthesia for at least 90 minutes and received positive pressure ventilation after the first 30 minutes of anesthesia. Parameters monitored included end‐tidal partial pressure of carbon dioxide (ETPCO2), arterial blood pressure, and arterial blood gases and pH. There was a statistically significant correlation between end‐tidal carbon dioxide and arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) for both halothane and isoflurane anesthesia. There was no significant correlation between end‐tidal carbon dioxide and either body weight or systolic blood pressure. No statistically significant difference was found in arterial to end‐tidal carbon dioxide difference nor in alveolar dead space because of time or positioning over anesthetic periods of up to 3 hours. It is concluded that end‐tidal carbon dioxide monitoring is a satisfactory measure of changes in respiratory acid‐base balance with inhalation anesthesia in horses when ventilation is controlled.
The Effects of Plaster of Paris and Autogenous Cancellous Bone on the Healing of Cortical Defects in the Femurs of Dogs
Authors: ELKINS A. D. , JONES LARRY P.
Published: February 2008

Four one quarter inch evenly spaced circular defects were created bilaterally in the lateral femoral diaphysis of 12 clinically normal adult dogs. The defects were left unfilled (control), or were filled with one of the following: (1) plaster of Paris, (2) an equal‐volume mixture of plaster of Paris and autogenous cancellous bone, and (3) autogenous cancellous bone. The degree of bone healing was evaluated radiographically and histologically at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks. Radiographically, no objective conclusions could be drawn due to the small size of the defects and limited amount of plaster of Paris implanted. Histologically, there was no inflammatory reaction to the plaster of Paris. No differences were determined in the degree of bone healing between autogenous cancellous bone, plaster of Paris, and a mixture of plaster of Paris and autogenous cancellous bone. All implants were superior to the control defect in degree of bone healing.
Interstitial pH and Pressure in the Dependent Biceps Femoris Muscle of Laterally Recumbent Anesthetized Horses
Authors: NORMAN WENDY M. , DODMAN NICHOLAS H. , COURT MICHAEL H.
Published: February 2008

Interstitial pressure and pH in the dependent biceps femoris muscle were measured in anesthetized, laterally recumbent horses. The mean (± standard deviation) interstitial pressure in 10 horses was 19.70 ± 0.15 mmHg in the 30 to 180 minute interval after induction of anesthesia. Pressures of this order have been associated with reduction in muscle perfusion. Mean (± standard deviation) interstitial pH in six horses decreased from 7.07 ± 0.30 to 6.73 ± 0.21 between 45 and 150 minutes of anesthesia. These results indicated the presence of circulatory compromise to intracompartmental structures.
Mechanical Evaluation of Two Canine Iliac Fracture Fixation SysteMS
Authors: VANGUNDY T. E. , HULSE D. A. , NELSON J. K. , BOOTHE H. W.
Published: February 2008

Twenty‐three canine pelves were tested bilaterally to determine the stiffness and strength of intact ilium and stabilized oblique iliac osteotomies that simulated a common clinical fracture. Fixation systeMS tested were three 4.0 mm cancellous screws inserted ventral to dorsal across the osteotomy site and one laterally placed five hole 3.5 mm dynamic compression plate. Specimens were mechanically tested to failure under torsional, axial, or axial plus bending loads. Lag screw fixation was stiffer and stronger than plate fixation in all testing modes. The differences were statistically significant (p <.05) in the torsional and axial plus bending loading modes. Fatigue testing was performed on implanted specimens with low‐level cyclic loading under axial plus bending loading conditions. Physiologic loading conditions failed to produce mechanical failure of either fixation system after 100,000 cycles.
The Use of Intraneural Doxorubicin in Association with Palmar Digital Neurectomy in 28 Horses
Authors: FUBINI S. L. , CUMMINGS J. F. , TODHUNTER R. J.
Published: February 2008

Painful neuroma formation after palmar digital neurectomy in the horse is common. Experimentally, injection of doxorubicin (Adriamycin) into the proximal transected nerve stump has been shown to prevent axon sprouting and neuroma formation for up to 5 months. This procedure was used in 28 horses with navicular disease, preexisting painful neuroma, or wing fractures of the distal phalanx. At 1 month, 16 horses had incisional complications. At 1 year, 15 horses were sound. Eight horses were lame, although three were improved. Three horses required a second surgical procedure, two of which became sound. Follow‐up was not available in two horses. The technique used in this study has an unacceptable rate of wound complications and no benefit over other palmar digital neurectomy techniques currently in use.
The Combination of Surgery and Radiation in the Treatment of Cancer A Review
Authors: McLEOD DEBORAH A. , THRALL DONALD E.
Published: February 2008

Although radiation and surgery have been combined for the treatment of cancer in humans and animals since the 1920s, little has been written about the methods of combining radiation and surgery and the efficacy of this combination for the treatment of animal tumors. This article reviews the rationale for combining radiation and surgery for the treatment of cancer and the ways in which these two modalities can be combined with emphasis placed on the advantages and disadvantages of preoperative and postoperative radiotherapy. The role of preoperative and postoperative irradiation for the treatment of various animal tumors is discussed. Directions for future clinical trials are pointed out. Finally, the importance of surgeons and radiation oncologists communicating with each other and participating in cooperative treatment methods is stressed.
Effect of Desmopressin Acetate on Bleeding Times and Plasma von Willebrand Factor in Doberman Pinscher Dogs with von Willebrand's Disease
Authors: KRAUS KARL H. , TURRENTINE MARK A. , JERGENS ALBERT E. , JOHNSON GARY S.
Published: February 2008

Effects of desmopressin acetate (1‐desamino‐8‐D‐arginine vasopressin [DDAVP]) on plasma von Willebrand factor (vWf) were studied in 12 purebred Doberman pinschers confirmed to have von Willebrand's disease (vWd) (plasma vWf antigen [vWf:Ag] concentrations, <30 U/dl). Twelve dogs had subnormal plasma botrocetin cofactor (BCf) activity and 11 dogs had prolonged buccal mucosa bleeding times. Tranquilization of three dogs with lenperone and three dogs with xylazine did not induce significant changes in mean plasma vWf:Ag concentrations or mean BCf activities. Thirty and 120 minutes after administration of DDAVP (1 μg/kg subcutaneously), there was significant shortening of the mean buccal mucosa bleeding time. Ten dogs responded to DDAVP with increases in BCf activity which exceeded 10 U/dl at 30 or 120 minutes, or both, after the drug was administered. At the same time, increases in plasma vWf:Ag concentrations were smaller than the increases in BCf activity. It was shown by multimeric analysis that primarily the higher molecular weight forms of vWf increased in plasma in response to DDAVP.
Treatment of Humeroulnar Subluxation with a Dynamic Proximal Ulnar Osteotomy A Review of 13 Cases
Authors: GILSON STEPHEN D. , PIERMATTEI DONALD L. , SCHWARZ PETER D.
Published: February 2008

Humeroulnar subluxation was treated surgically in 13 dogs with 18 affected elbows using a proximal osteotomy of the ulna that allowed the ulna to elongate dynamically. Distal humeroulnar subluxation was secondary to premature closure of the distal ulnar physis in 16 elbows. One distal subluxation was secondary to a radioulnar synostosis, and one proximal subluxation developed after premature closure of the distal radial physis. The mean follow‐up time was 22 months. Twenty‐eight percent of the elbows were judged to have excellent results, 22% good results, 50% fair results, and none was judged to have a poor outcome. The presenting lameness grade and the severity of preoperative and postoperative humeroulnar subluxation had significant correlations with the prognosis. Associated orthopedic abnormalities and complications of concurrent surgical procedures affected the outcome in several dogs. Overall, the dynamic proximal ulnar osteotomy was a simple and effective technique for the treatment of uncomplicated humeroulnar subluxation.
Thermal Burns in Four Dogs during Anesthesia
Authors: DUNLOP COLIN I. , DAUNT DAVID A. , HASKINS STEVE C.
Published: February 2008

Thermal burns occurred in four anesthetized dogs as a result of using latex surgical gloves filled with warm water to treat hypothermia. The burns were on relatively hairless skin that had been in contact with the gloves. Small containers full of warm water are a relatively inefficient source of heat, but if the temperature of the water exceeds 45°C and the container contacts the animal's skin, thermal injury can result.