Search

A 17-year-old female Siamese cat was referred for a history of progressive dyspnoea, depression and anorexia. The cat was tachypnoeic, dyspnoeic and the thoracic auscultation revealed muffled cardiac and respiratory sounds. Radiographs of the thorax demonstrated pleural effusion and a well-circumscribed soft tissue mass in the caudodorsal aspect of the mediastinum, most likely consistent with an oesophageal mass. CT findings demonstrated a cystic-like mass in the caudal mediastinum, which was located in the right wall of the oesophagus, pleural effusion and subpleural nodules. Microscopic examination revealed that the wall of the cystic-like mass had an inner mucosal layer lined by squamous epithelium and contained two muscle layers, consistent with an oesophageal duplication cyst (ODC). A carcinoma was found in the ODC as well as pleural carcinomatosis. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case of a neoplastic ODC.

Granulosa cell tumour is a common ovarian pathology in bitches. Depending on its hormonal production, this tumour often induces persistent oestrus signs and uterine disorders. Chronic treatment with progesterone contraceptives has been associated with endometrial mineralisation in bitches. The authors describe the case of a three-year-old female entire mastiff dog with a one-year history of chronic hyperoestrogenism signs and anorexia. Serum biochemistry and haematology revealed moderate leucocytosis. Abdominal ultrasound showed dilated uterine horns with anechoic fluid in the lumen, small cystic structures, and multiple stippled hyperechoic lesions with mild acoustic shadowing and comet tail artefact along the endometrial wall. Furthermore, cystic structures were observed in the right ovary. After surgery, histopathological study revealed the presence of endometrial hyperplasia-pyometra complex, endometrial mineralisation and a granulosa cell tumour. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of endometrial mineralisation associated with ovarian granulosa cell tumour in a bitch.

Adrenal size has been used as the principal criterion for differentiating a normal gland from adrenal hyperplasia. The objectives of this study were to establish an ultrasonographic measurement of adrenal gland-to-aorta (adrenal/Ao) ratio to estimate the adrenal size and to assess the effects of bodyweight, age and sex on the adrenal/Ao ratio in non-adrenal gland disease dogs.Two hundred and thirty-four dogs (120 entire females and 114 entire males) considered non-adrenal gland disease were included in this study. Dogs were allocated into three bodyweight categories (10 kg, 10-20 kg and20 kg), and four age groups (1 year, 1-5 years, 5-10 years and10 years old). Measurements of the maximal thickness of caudal pole of both adrenal glands and the aortic luminal diameter in sagittal plane were performed on the ultrasonographic images. Three different ratios were calculated for each dog.Sex and age did not influence on the adrenal/Ao ratio. There were differences (P0.05) between the three dog sizes for adrenal/Ao ratio, being the highest value for small size and the lowest value for large size.In this study, only bodyweight influences the ultrasound measurement of the adrenal/Ao ratio in non-adrenal gland disease dogs.

Background: Ultrasound (US)-guided techniques for peripheral nerve blockade have revealed that intraneural injections are relatively frequent and not necessarily associated with neurological deficits.Objectives: To evaluate the short-term effects of deliberate injections performed under direct vision in two different sites of the sciatic nerve (ScN).Material and Methods: Seventy-two New Zealand white rabbits randomly assigned to one of four experimental groups (n = 18) were employed. All procedures were conducted at a proximal femoral level where the ScN incorporates the common peroneal nerve and the tibial nerve (TN). Fixed volumes of 0.5 ml of saline solution (ES group) or bupivacaine 0.75% (EB group) were administered extrafascicularly inside the paraneurium of the ScN or intrafascicularly (IS and IB groups) under the epineurium of the TN. Cross-sectional area (CSA) and relative echogenicity (RE) of the entire ScN were determined by US before injections, after injections, and at 3 and 7 days. ScN samples were obtained for structural and ultrastructural histopathological studies. Proprioceptive, sensorial, and motor function were clinically evaluated on a daily basis.Results: The CSA of the ScN increased significantly immediately after injections when compared with pre-injection values in all groups (p < 0.05). The RE of the ScN decreased in relation to pre-injection values in all groups (p < 0.05). The CSA and RE of the ScN returned to normal values 7 days after injections in almost all groups. Injected nerves showed histological signs of mild perineural inflammation. Histopathological scores were not significantly different between groups (p > 0.05). The architecture of the ScN was preserved in all rabbits at 3 days and in 31/32 rabbits at 7 days. A focal area of damaged nerve fibers with degeneration of the axons and myelin sheath affecting the TN was observed in one rabbit of the IB group. Nerve function was not clinically impaired in any case.Conclusion: Despite the lack of severe nerve disruption observed in most rabbits, the evidence of a focal area of damaged nerve fibers in one rabbit injected intrafascicularly with bupivacaine confirms that intrafascicular injections should be avoided as they may increase the risk of nerve damage.

The relationship between histological and ultrasonographic thickness of the intestinal wall and its layers in cats is unknown so far. The aims of this study were to establish the relationship between ultrasonographic measurements in the transverse and longitudinal planes of the small intestine and to establish the agreement between ultrasonographic and histologic thickness of the overall intestinal wall and layers in cat cadavers. Seventeen adult cats were euthanased for reasons unrelated to gastrointestinal tract disease and ultrasonography was performed immediately after death using a high-frequency linear transducer. Ultrasound images of the duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and distal ileum were acquired in both the longitudinal and transverse planes. Small intestinal samples were collected close to where ultrasonographic images were obtained, fixed in formalin, and histological sections were obtained. Measurements of the intestinal layers and the overall wall thickness were performed on the ultrasonographic images and histological sections. No statistical differences were found between the ultrasonographic measurements of thickness obtained in the transverse and longitudinal planes except for the distal ileum (P0.05). There was good agreement between the ultrasonographic and histologic measurements of the overall wall thickness and the layers of the different intestinal segments except at the submucosa and muscularis of the duodenum. Immediate postmortem ultrasonographic and histological thickness measurements of the different layers of the small intestine obtained in this study could serve as a reference for ultrasonographic scans and histological samples in cats.

A 3-month-old, 18 kg, female St Bernard breed dog was presented with recurrent left forelimb lameness and painful swelling of the antebrachium. A large expansile lytic lesion within the left ulna was observed on radiographs. Ultrasound examination revealed a cyst-like structure. Sanguineous fluid was obtained in association with ultrasound guidance. A presumptive diagnosis of aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) was made. Percutaneous sclerotherapy (PS) with ethanol 95 per cent was performed. Follow-up radiographic examinations showed progressive remodelling. Limb function was normal after 9 months. PS with ethanol was a safe alternative to conventional surgery for the treatment of an ABC in this case.

The aims of this study were: (1) to determine the inter-observer repeatability of particular regions of the canine elbow joints; (2) to assess the effect of age, bodyweight and breed on bone density in healthy young dogs; (3) to compare Hounsfield units (HU) and bone density (BD) measurements between normal elbow joints and diseased elbow joints; and (4) to determine the sensitivity and specificity for HU and BD measurements in specific regions in the canine elbow joint. Regions with the highest repeatability were located at the medial coronoid process (MCP) base and apex, and at the level of the humerus, on the sagittal and sagittal oblique planes of the elbow joint. Age and breed were significantly associated with several regions of interest; conversely, none of the measurements were associated with bodyweight. Increased HU and BD values in the MCP base and apex regions are likely to be related to medial coronoid disease. Labrador retrievers had higher HU and BD values than Golden retrievers and an increase in BD was found in older animals. Cut-offs determined with receiver operating characteristic plots of the MCP base and apex suggested fairly good sensitivity and specificity (base: area under the curve 0.85, sensitivity 75.0%, specificity 88.8%; apex: area under the curve 0.89, sensitivity 80.0%, specificity 92.5%).

Case summary A 14-year-old female neutered Persian-cross cat was presented with a 1 week history of anorexia and lethargy. On physical examination, marked tachypnoea and dyspnoea were evident. Radiographs of the thorax revealed a globoid-shaped cardiac silhouette with heterogeneous opacity consistent with a peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia (PPDH), pulmonary nodules compatible with metastasis, seven sternal segments and a small liver in the cranial abdomen with loss of serosal detail. On echocardiography, there was no evidence of cardiac tamponade. Triple-phase CT angiography demonstrated a mixed soft tissue-, mineral- and fat-attenuated liver mass arising from the left hepatic lobes that showed a pronounced heterogeneous contrast-enhancement pattern within the pericardial sac, which was producing a marked mass effect on the adjacent structures. Additionally, there was an increase in attenuation of the mesenteric fat and peritoneal effusion. The pulmonary nodules were confirmed. Imaging findings were compatible with a malignant hepatic neoplasia incarcerated in a PPDH, lung metastasis and carcinomatosis. Owing to the poor prognosis, the cat was humanely euthanased. Histopathological diagnosis was cholangiocellular carcinoma and hepatic myelolipoma, pulmonary metastasis and carcinomatosis. Relevance and novel information Hepatic cholangiocarcinoma incarcerated in a PPDH with pulmonary metastasis and carcinomatosis has not been previously described. Suspicion of a hepatic neoplasia should be raised in cases of PPDH and pulmonary nodules.

A two-year-old, 37 kg intact mixed-breed dog was presented with lameness of the left pelvic limb after being hit by a car three days ago. The physical examination revealed tachypnoea with an abdominal restrictive respiratory pattern. Based on history of the patient and imaging findings a presumptive diagnosis of pneumothorax, rib fractures and traumatic pulmonary pseudocysts (TPP) was made. The patient was treated conservatively. One month later, thoracic radiograph showed only a pulmonary small nodule. TPPs are an uncommon complication after blunt thorax trauma but should be included in the differential diagnosis when cavitary pulmonary lesions are seen on thoracic radiograph or CT.

A young intact female dog was presented with urinary incontinence. Abdominal ultrasound revealed the presence of hyperechoic linear structures within the cranial vagina suggestive of foreign material. A computed tomography (CT) retrograde vaginourethrogram demonstrated the presence of a fistulous tract between the urethra and vagina. A presumptive diagnosis of urethrovaginal fistula due to migration of foreign material was made. The grass awn was removed with vaginoscopic-guided retrieval. Fourteen days later, surgical repair of the fistula and an ovariohysterectomy were done. This case report emphasizes the usefulness of CT for diagnosis and precise anatomical localization of genitourinary tract fistulas.

Objective To study the effect of alternating the order of midazolam and alfaxalone administration on the incidence of behavioural changes, alfaxalone induction dose and some cardiorespiratory variables in healthy dogs. Study design Prospective, randomized, controlled, clinical trial. Animals A total of 33 client-owned dogs undergoing elective procedures. Methods Following intramuscular acepromazine (0.02 mg kg−1) and morphine (0.4 mg kg−1) premedication, anaesthesia was induced intravenously (IV) with a co-induction of either midazolam (0.25 mg kg−1) prior to alfaxalone (0.5 mg kg−1; group MA), or alfaxalone followed by midazolam at identical doses (group AM). The control group (CA) was administered normal saline IV prior to alfaxalone administration. Additional alfaxalone (0.25 mg kg−1 increments) was administered as required in all groups until orotracheal intubation was possible. Changes in behaviour, quality of induction, ease of intubation and incidence of adverse events at induction were recorded. Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (fR) and systolic arterial blood pressure (SAP) were measured before treatments (baseline values), 30 minutes after premedication and at 0, 2, 5 and 10 minutes postintubation. Results The incidence of excitement was higher in group MA compared with groups CA (p = 0.005) and AM (p = 0.013). The mean induction dose of alfaxalone was lower in group AM compared with group CA (p = 0.003). Quality of induction and ease of intubation were similar among groups. Mean HR values decreased after premedication and increased after alfaxalone administration in all groups. Mean SAP values were similar between groups. The number of animals that required manual ventilation was higher in the MA group. Conclusions and clinical relevance Despite a lower occurrence of adverse events at induction in group AM compared with group MA and a reduction of alfaxalone dose requirement in group AM compared with group CA, the use of an alfaxalone–midazolam co-induction does not seem to produce any cardiovascular or respiratory benefits in healthy dogs.

A 1.5-year-old, 23 kg intact male Dalmatian dog was evaluated for acute respiratory insufficiency without a previous history of trauma or toxic exposition. Imaging revealed pneumomediastinum, pneumothorax, diffuse unstructured interstitial pulmonary pattern, pulmonary interstitial emphysema, and pneumoretroperitoneum. Histopathological evaluation of the lungs revealed perivascular and peribronchial emphysema, mild lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia with atypical proliferation of type II pneumocytes in bronchioles and alveoli. A lung disease resembling fibrosing interstitial pneumonia in man and cats has been previously reported in Dalmatians and should be included as a differential diagnosis for Dalmatians with this combination of clinical and imaging characteristics.

Objective To (1) assess the canine elbow joint using a high frequency transducer (18 MHz); (2) describe the echogenicity and echo texture of the joint; and (3) correlate the ultrasonographic images with transparent plastinated anatomic sections. Design Descriptive study. Sample Population German Shepherd cross-breed dogs (cadavers, n = 10; live dogs, n = 5). Methods Elbow joints of 10 adult German Shepherd cross-breed dog cadavers were examined by ultrasonography and then 5 cadavers were selected for use in an anatomic study, in which 2 mm thick sections were obtained in the same planes as in the ultrasonographic protocol. Sections were plastinated using the E-12 plastination method and correlated to the corresponding ultrasonographic images. The elbow joints of 5 German Shepherd adult dogs were assessed by ultrasonography for comparison with cadaver images. Results Good correspondence of soft tissue and bone structures was obtained between ultrasound images and anatomic sections. There was no difference in the ultrasonographic appearance of elbows of cadavers and live dogs in which the muscular, ligamentous, and bone components of the joints were evaluated. Conclusion This study presents a descriptive comparison of anatomic and ultrasonographic images, which will offer clinicians a more comprehensive understanding of the anatomic structures of the canine elbow joint and serve as reference for further imaging diagnostic studies because of the precise correspondence between anatomic plastinated sections and ultrasonographic images.

A 3-year-old spayed female dog was presented with 3-month history of severe bilateral uveitis subsequent to previous ovariohysterectomy. Physical examination revealed moderate abdominal pain. Computed tomography showed a nonobstructive heterogeneous mass-like lesion with a speckled gas pattern (spongiform pattern) within the cecum. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a surgical swab in the lumen of the cecum with severe adhesions. Histopathological examination demonstrated a chronic inflammatory pyogranulomatous reaction to the retained swab embedded within the intestinal wall, consistent with transmural migration of the swab from the peritoneal cavity into the cecum.

A 7-month-old, 2.8 kg, intact female Siamese cat was evaluated for repetitive and intermittent episodes of vomiting and anorexia. Abdominal palpation revealed a round, firm, nonpainful mass in the right cranial abdomen. Ultrasonography findings were consistent with a cystic structure adjacent to the descending duodenum. The structure exhibited a "muscular rim sign." A duodenal duplication cyst was confirmed by histopathological analysis. Computed tomography ruled out concurrent vertebral anomalies and clarified anatomic relationships for surgical planning. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first description of an ultrasound "muscular rim sign" in a duodenal duplication cyst in a cat.

This study was conducted to describe and validate a dorsal ultrasound-guided approach to block the femoral nerve (FN) in cats by means of anatomical and computed tomography (CT) studies. The anatomical study was carried out in four fresh feline cadavers to determine the anatomic landmarks to approach this nerve. Then, an ultrasonographic study of the FN was performed in another eight cadavers using a 13 MHz linear transducer. The accuracy of the neurolocation by ultrasonography (US) was determined in four cadavers by the injection of 1 ml blue ink around the FN. The staining of the nerve was evaluated in anatomical studies. The feasibility of this technique was also evaluated by CT after injecting 1 ml of an iodinated contrast medium (150 mgl/ml) around the FN in the other four cadavers. The landmarks to approach the FN were the cranial border of the iliac crest and the dorsal processes of L6 and L7. The FN was visualised as a round hypoechogenic structure surrounded by a hyperechogenic rim located within the iliopsoas muscle on transverse scans. The anatomical and CT studies confirmed the accuracy of the US location of the FN. The dorsal ultrasound-guided approach may allow feasible and accurate access to the FN in cats and it could be useful in producing successful blockade.

Ten canine cadavers were used to investigate the anatomy and ultrasonographic approaches to the sciatic (ScN) and femoral (FN) nerves and to assess the accuracy of an ultrasound (US) guided technique to locate and block these nerves in the dog. The nerves of four sedated dogs were sought using US, blocked with 1% lidocaine and successful location confirmed by peripheral neurostimulation. The ScN was identified by US in all cases whereas the FN was not located in all cases. This study validates the usefulness of the US-guided technique to locate and block the ScN at the midfemoral level but the acoustic window of the inguinal region was less successful for locating and blocking the FN.

Summary Reasons for performing study: In human medicine, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered the ‘gold standard’ imaging procedure to assess the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). However, there is no information regarding MRI evaluation of equine TMJ. Objectives: To describe the normal sectional MRI anatomy of equine TMJ by using frozen and plastinated anatomical sections as reference; and determine the best imaging planes and sequences to visualise TMJ components. Methods: TMJs from 6 Spanish Purebred horse cadavers (4 immature and 2 mature) underwent MRI examination. Spin-echo T1-weighting (SE T1W), T2*W, fat-suppressed (FS) proton density-weighting (PDW) and fast spin-echo T2-weighting (FSE T2W) sequences were obtained in oblique sagittal, transverse and dorsal planes. Anatomical sections were procured on the same planes for a thorough interpretation. Results: The oblique sagittal and transverse planes were the most informative anatomical planes. SE T1W images showed excellent spatial resolution and resulted in superior anatomic detail when comparing to other sequences. FSE T2W sequence provided an acceptable anatomical depiction but T2*W and fat-suppressed PDW demonstrated higher contrast in visualisation of the disc, synovial fluid, synovial pouches and articular cartilage. Conclusions: The SE T1W sequence in oblique sagittal and transverse plane should be the baseline to identify anatomy. The T2*W and fat-suppressed PDW sequences enhance the study of the articular cartilage and synovial pouches better than FSE T2W. Potential relevance: The information provided in this paper should aid clinicians in the interpretation of MRI images of equine TMJ and assist in the early diagnosis of those problems that could not be diagnosed by other means.

Summary Reasons for performing study: The minute anatomy of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in horses is poorly documented in the literature. Objectives: To examine in detail the anatomy of the normal equine TMJ and the relationship of the joint to adjacent structures. Methods: The anatomy of the TMJ was examined in 12 equidae using dissections, synovial and vascular injections and frozen and plastinated sections. Relevant structures were photographed. Results: Rostral and caudal compartments were identified in the dorsal and ventral synovial pouches of the TMJ. Lateral and caudal ligaments were identified and attachments of the masticatory muscles over the TMJ were documented. Direct relationships between the TMJ and components of the ear were found, and the vascular supply described. Conclusions: This joint is related to some components of the ear as in man, and has its own peripheral vascular supply. Potential relevance: A knowledge of the detailed anatomy of the equine TMJ is a prerequisite to interpreting the imaging techniques, and will enable improved diagnosis of TMJ pathologies.

Objective To study the anaesthetic and cardiorespiratory effects of intramuscular (IM) administration of different combinations of romifidine and ketamine in cats. Study design Prospective, randomized, cross-over experiment. Animals Seven healthy adult cats weighing (mean ± SD) 3.4 ± 0.7 kg and aged 4.6 ± 3.2 years. Methods Animals received romifidine 100 μg kg −1 with ketamine 7.5 (R100/K7.5) and 10 mg kg −1 (R100/K10), romifidine 200 μg kg −1 with ketamine 5 (R200/K5), 7.5 (R200/K7.5) and 10 mg kg −1 (R200/K10) by IM injection. The time required to perform orotracheal intubation (IT) was measured and the ease of intubation assessed. The onset of anaesthesia (OA), duration of anaesthesia (DA) and anaesthesia recovery times (AR) were measured. Analgesia and muscle relaxation scores were recorded every 5 minutes for 60 minutes after OA. Heart rate, systolic arterial pressure, arterial haemoglobin saturation, respiratory rate, end-tidal carbon dioxide and oesophageal temperature were also measured. Results The IT, OA and DA were not significantly different between the treatments. The analgesia and muscle relaxation scores were similar between all treatments at most time points. The cardiorespiratory variables were not significantly different between the treatments in most cases. The adverse effects were dose dependent and similar to those previously described for other combinations of α 2 -agonists and ketamine. Conclusions and clinical relevance Anaesthesia produced by the studied combinations of romifidine and ketamine may only be reliable when conducting brief and noninvasive procedures in cats. The OA times were slower and the DA shorter than those reported for other alpha-2 agonists combined with ketamine. A dose-related increase in the intensity of the anaesthetic effects could not be demonstrated in this study.

The objectives of this study were to establish normal values for relative echogenicity (RE) and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the flexor tendons and ligaments of the metacarpal region of Purebred Spanish horses (PBSH), and to determine the effect of body mass index (BMI), age, sex and forelimb on these variables. Transverse ultrasonographic images were obtained using 20 normal PBSH (10 females, 10 males; 2–25 years of age; BMI 132.04–152.25; not in training). The images were digitised and values for CSA and RE were determined for each structure. The suspensory ligament was the most echogenic and the largest structure, and the superficial digital flexor tendon was the least echogenic and smallest of the tissues examined. The tendons and ligaments of the metacarpal region in PBSH showed similar RE but smaller CSAs when compared to other breeds.

Summary The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of helical computed tomography (CT) for visualizing pulmonary parenchyma and associated formations in normal dogs. CT scan was performed by using intravenous contrast medium and by applying different types of CT windows: soft tissue and lung windows, and high-resolution computed tomography of the lung. This technique allowed, especially with lung window types, a good view of the parenchyma, bronchial tree, vascular structures and pleural cavity. The selected images, with high anatomical quality and tissue contrast, may be a reference for future clinical studies of this organ. Thus, helical CT is a promising non-invasive method of diagnosing a wide variety of pulmonary diseases in dogs.

Ultrasonographic (US), magnetic resonance (MR) and computed tomographic (CT) images of normal canine stifle joints were obtained and compared with plastinated cross-sectional slices of cadaver specimens from the same dogs. The bony and articular structures were identified and correlated with the three diagnostic imaging modalities. These results provide an atlas of normal cross-sectional US, MR and CT anatomy of the canine stifle, which can be used for the interpretation of stifle images from any of these imaging modalities.

The objective was to describe the normal ultrasonographic appearance of the soft tissue and bony structures of the temporomandibular joint in Pure-Bred Spanish horses using frozen and plastinated sections performed as anatomical references. The temporomandibular joint of five healthy Pure-Bred Spanish horses and the head specimens from 12 Pure-Bred Spanish cadavers that were subjected to euthanasia for reasons other than temporomandibular joint problems were studied sonographically and anatomically. An 11 MHz linear-array transducer was used to obtain longitudinal ultrasonographic images of the temporomandibular joint from rostral, lateral, and caudal approaches. For anatomic study, a gross dissection was performed on six temporomandibular joints. The other six head specimens were first frozen at -30 degrees C for 48h and then, at -70 degrees C for a week. Three millimeter thick anatomic sections were collected in the same plane as the sonographic planes. These sections were plastinated, photographed, and compared with the corresponding ultrasonographic images. The articular surfaces, the articular cartilage, the disc, the intra-articular fat tissue, the joint capsule, and other structures were clearly visualized sonographically. Structures identified on the ultrasonographic images were in accordance with those identified on the corresponding anatomic sections. We confirmed the appearance of structures of the equine temporomandibular joint that have been described previously but we also identified the caudal fibrous expansion of the disc, the caudal compartment of the dorsal synovial pouch, and the lateral ligament. Our results define a reference that will aid in sonographic evaluation of the equine temporomandibular joint region.

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate and refine an ultrasound (US)-guided technique to block the brachial plexus (BP) at the level of the axillary space in live cats. Methods Eight adult experimental cats were enrolled into the study. The animals were sedated and positioned in dorsal recumbency with the limb to be blocked abducted 90º. The US transducer was placed in the axillary region and a non-traumatic peripheral nerve block needle was inserted in-plane with respect to the transducer, medial to the BP up to the level of the axillary artery. Lidocaine 1% (0.4 ml/kg) was injected as the needle was being progressively withdrawn in a caudal-to-cranial direction. The efficacy of the block was confirmed by evaluation of the motor and sensory functions of the blocked forelimb. Motor blockade was assessed observing the position of the blocked leg on standing and walking patterns. Sensory blockade was evaluated by the stimulation of mechanical nociceptors in the dermatomes supplied by the four major sensory nerves of the distal thoracic limb. Results The BP was successfully located by US in all cases. The achieved BP block was complete in six cats (75%) and partial in the remaining two cats (25%). All animals recovered uneventfully from the sedation and the BP blocks. Conclusions and relevance The US-guided block at the axillary space evaluated in this study is a feasible, reproducible and safe technique to block the BP plexus in experimental live cats.

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the comparison between the ultrasonographic features of canine mammary tumours, assessed by B-Mode, colour Doppler, power Doppler, spectral Doppler, and histopathologic features, would help to differentiate if a tumour is benign or malignant. Ultrasonographic examinations of 104 tumours were performed. Volume, margins, presence of a capsule, echotexture and presence and distribution of the vascular flow of the tumours were evaluated. All the tumours were surgically removed, submitted for histopathologic examination and classified in two groups: Group I (benign tumours) and Group II (malignant tumours). Echotexture was the only parameter evaluated by B-Mode ultrasonography where significant differences were found (p

Objectives This study was conducted to validate the dorsal approach for femoral nerve (FN) blockade in cats and to verify the efficacy of the sole use of peripheral nerve electrolocation (PNE) or ultrasound (US)-guided technique to achieve the block. Methods This study was carried out in two phases. In phase 1, five adult experimental cats were used to validate the approach. In each cat, one FN was located by US and the accuracy of this location confirmed by PNE. Then, 2 mg/kg lidocaine 2% (diluted in saline to a final volume of 1 ml) was injected around the target nerve and the success of the blockade was evaluated. In phase 2, four adult experimental cats were included in two groups to verify the reliability of this approach to block eight FNs by the sole use of PNE (group 1) or US-guided technique (group 2). Evidence of motor blockade, time required to perform the blockade, onset time and duration of the blockades were determined. Results The FN was successfully located by US in all cats enrolled in phase 1, as confirmed by PNE in all cases. The success rate was clinically higher in group 2 (87.5%) than in group 1 (75.0%). The US-guided technique required less time to perform and produced blocks of longer duration. Recovery was uneventful in all cases. Conclusions and relevance The combined use of PNE and US-guided technique enabled validation of the dorsal approach for the FN blockade as it provided a successful FN blockade in all cases. The sole use of a US-guided technique may offer some advantages over the use of a sole PNE-guided technique to perform these blocks.

An 8-year-old intact male Persian cat was presented for investigation of chronic haematuria. The cat had episodes of haematuria on several occasions that were non-responsive to antimicrobial therapy. Abdominal ultrasound examination revealed dilation of the renal pelvis and ureters of both kidneys. The urinary bladder wall was thickened, a mass of heterogeneous echogenicity filled the lumen of the bladder, and two parallel thin hyperechoic lines were identified within the lumen, which suggested a urethral catheter. Differential diagnoses for the urinary bladder mass included cystitis and neoplasia. The mass was surgically removed from the urinary bladder, and a urethral catheter was found embedded in the mass. Histopathological findings were consistent with cystitis glandularis of a typical type. Periodic bladder ultrasonographic studies were performed; at the time of writing, over 2 years later, recurrence had not been detected.

A 12-year-old, male, fox terrier dog presented with an abnormal gait of the left pelvic limb. Computed tomography revealed a large, homogeneous, hypoattenuating, noncontrast enhancing mass within the left epaxial muscles that invaded the L5-6 vertebral canal and caused spinal cord compression. Imaging findings were consistent with an infiltrative lipoma. The mass was removed and a left hemilaminectomy was performed in the affected area. Histopathology confirmed the mass to be an infiltrative lipoma. The dog recovered and regained neurologic function within 2 weeks. Computed tomography assisted preoperative planning by characterizing the shape, size, and location of the mass.

A young intact female dog was presented with urinary incontinence. Abdominal ultrasound revealed the presence of hyperechoic linear structures within the cranial vagina suggestive of foreign material. A computed tomography (CT) retrograde vaginourethrogram demonstrated the presence of a fistulous tract between the urethra and vagina. A presumptive diagnosis of urethrovaginal fistula due to migration of foreign material was made. The grass awn was removed with vaginoscopic-guided retrieval. Fourteen days later, surgical repair of the fistula and an ovariohysterectomy were done. This case report emphasizes the usefulness of CT for diagnosis and precise anatomical localization of genitourinary tract fistulas.

An eight-month-old Pekingese bitch with urinary incontinence was found to have three congenital anomalies of the urinary tract: left renal agenesis, bilateral ectopic ureters with a left cranial blind-ending ureter, and urinary bladder hypoplasia. The diagnoses were made by retrograde vaginourethrography, excretory urography, ultrasonography and duplex Doppler ultrasonography. Although urological anomalies associated with renal agenesis have been frequently observed, a cranial blind-end ectopic ureter has not, to the authors' knowledge, been described in the bitch. The dog was managed medically with a restricted protein diet because of a compromised unilateral kidney with hydronephrosis and hydroureter.

Unilateral enlargement of left testicle and scrotum was detected in an 8-year-old West Highland White Terrier. The histopathological diagnosis after surgery was a seminoma (SEM) tumour, and a diagnosis of metastatic foci was also detected in vaginal tunic and scrotum. Two months later, new metastatic SEM foci in the skin were diagnosed. Twenty-two months after the initial orchiectomy new multiple cutaneous nodules and a swelling of periesophageal structures were observed. Finally, the necropsy revealed multiple malignant metastatic SEM focus. To the author's knowledge, this is the first description of a canine SEM with unusual widespread metastasis on the base of tongue, soft palate, trachea and pericardium.

Axillary blockade of the brachial plexus (BP) is advocated in humans and dogs for surgical procedures carried out on the foot, carpus and elbow as it provides complete analgesia distally from above the elbow joint. The aim of this study was to develop an ultrasound (US)-guided approach to block the BP in cats. Two groups of 12 feline cadavers each were used to compare two different techniques to block the BP at the axillary level. The reliability of the techniques was assessed by anatomical and computed tomography (CT) studies. Cadavers of the first group were positioned in dorsal recumbency with the forelimb to be blocked adducted (thoracic limbs flexed and orientated caudally) (FAD technique). The second group was positioned in dorsal recumbency with the forelimb abducted 90° (FAB technique). The accuracy of the techniques was determined by US after injecting 1 ml blue ink along the BP nerves, and by CT after injecting 1 ml of an iodinated contrast medium. The anatomical and CT studies confirmed the accuracy of the US location of the BP nerves. Staining of the axillaris, musculocutaneous, radialis, medianus and ulnaris nerves was observed in 100% of cats using the FAB technique and in 66% of the cats using the FAD technique. Rate of complications was higher in the FAD technique. In conclusion, a US-guided axillary approach to the BP by the use of a FAB technique is a safe and feasible procedure to block the BP in the cat. Further studies are needed to ascertain whether the technique can be applied in a clinical setting.

A 1.5-year-old, 23 kg intact male Dalmatian dog was evaluated for acute respiratory insufficiency without a previous history of trauma or toxic exposition. Imaging revealed pneumomediastinum, pneumothorax, diffuse unstructured interstitial pulmonary pattern, pulmonary interstitial emphysema, and pneumoretroperitoneum. Histopathological evaluation of the lungs revealed perivascular and peribronchial emphysema, mild lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia with atypical proliferation of type II pneumocytes in bronchioles and alveoli. A lung disease resembling fibrosing interstitial pneumonia in man and cats has been previously reported in Dalmatians and should be included as a differential diagnosis for Dalmatians with this combination of clinical and imaging characteristics.

Persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV) syndrome associated with either severe ocular complications or multiple ocular lesions was diagnosed in three young dogs, a Samoyed, a Spanish Pachon, and a mixed breed dog. Due to opacification of the anterior ocular structures, B-mode and color-flow Doppler ultrasonography were performed to aid diagnosis. The Samoyed presented with unilateral hyphema; the Spanish Pachon presented with unilateral secondary glaucoma associated with uveitis and hyphema OD and leucocoria OU; and the mixed breed presented with bilateral leucocoria. B-mode ultrasonography of the Samoyed revealed a subcapsular cataract and a hyperechoic tubular structure attached from the optic disk to the posterior lens capsule. In the Spanish Pachon B-mode ultrasonography of the right eye indicated microphakia, cataract formation, and a retrolental mass with a thin hyperechoic strand stretching from the optic disk to the posterior lens; and for the right eye cataract formation, PHPV, retinal detachment, and vitreous hemorrhage. In the mixed breed dog, B-mode ultrasonography of both eyes indicated microphthalmia, retrolental mass, and hyperechoic lenses. By color-flow Doppler imaging, blood flow was present in the retrolental mass of the right eye suggesting a persistent hyaloid artery.

In five cats with normal renal function, doses of 200, 400, 600 and 800 mg iodine kg(-1)bodyweight of iohexol (350 mg iodine ml(-1)) were assessed in comparison to a dose of 880 mg iodine kg(-1)bodyweight of meglumine-sodium amidotrizoate (370 mg iodine ml(-1)) to determine the smallest dose which produces diagnostically adequate results for excretory urography. Urographic quality, haematologic and biochemical parameters, urinalysis and urinary osmolality, pulse and respiratory rates, blood pressure and adverse effects were determined. Iohexol presented fewer adverse reactions and influenced blood pressure less than amidotrizoate. The smallest dose of iohexol which provided urograms of similar quality to amidotrizoate was 400 mg iodine kg(-1)bodyweight. This study suggests that iohexol is safer and produces urograms of better quality than amidotrizoate.