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SummaryThe aim of this paper was to record the types of injuries and causes of lameness exhibited by dogs involved in game shooting. The study investigated gundogs that worked in the seasons 2005/2006 and 2006/2007. Information was acquired by owner questionnaires. The dogs were classified as working in the beating line, as peg dogs or as picking up dogs. A further group comprised Setters and Pointers that worked the grouse moors. A secondary objective was to assess the incidence of injuries that were treated by owners without seeking the assistance of their veterinarian, and to identify those that may have been underestimated. Depending on whether a dog was injured or went lame, and, if so, the nature of the injury, was correlated with the number of days worked, where it worked, its breed and the type of work it did. A mildly positive association between the Spaniel breed group and injuries was seen in 2005/2006 but not in 2006/2007. However, the relationship between the type of work and injuries was very significant for both seasons with dogs working in the beating line being at greatest risk and Setters and Pointers having the least number of injuries. The dogs in the beating line were also at a significantly greater risk of injury in both years when the type of injury was investigated. Fifty-three percent of all injuries were deemed to be sufficiently minor, that veterinary attention was not sought. However, those dogs with proximal thoracic limb lameness may have been under-investigated. There was a highly significant association between tail injuries and undocked Springer and Cocker Spaniels.

A Jack Russell terrier with a history of progressive exercise intolerance was examined at the age of four months and again 10 months later. Clinical examination revealed a stunted, thin dog with a stilted gait. The dog had raised lactate levels before and after feeding and a raised lactate/pyruvate ratio after feeding, indicating a metabolic abnormality. Histochemical evaluation of muscle biopsies revealed subsarcolemmal accumulation of oxidative activity when stained with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide tetrazollum reductase and ragged red fibres when stained with modified Gomori trichrome; all fibre types were involved. Ultrastructural examination of the muscle confirmed the presence of subsarcolemmal accumulations of mitochondria. Histochemical staining for the activity of enzymes of the Krebs cycle, oxidative phosphorylation and other metabolic cytosolic enzymes failed to demonstrate an abnormality. In view of the clinical picture and the biochemical and histological findings, a tentative diagnosis of mitochondrial myopathy was made. The difficulties associated with diagnosing mitochondrial disorders are discussed.

SummaryThe records and radiographs of 30 dogs with histopathologically confirmed tumours affecting joints were reviewed. The previously most commonly reported primary joint tumour, the synovial sarcoma, only represented eight of the 30 cases (27%). However, the radiological appearance of this tumour was very similar to others such as the fibrosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, fibromyxosarcoma, malignant fibrous histiocytoma, liposarcoma and undifferentiated sarcoma. Other tumours recorded were a mast cell tumour, haemangiopericytoma, osteosarcoma, squamous cell carcinoma and amelanotic melanoma.This study shows that there are joint tumours that have a similar radiographic appearance to synovial sarcomata, and confirms the importance of histopathological diagnosis.This study shows that there are a number of different joint tumours which radiologically resemble synovial sarcoma, and underlines the importance of accurate histopathological diagnosis.

Bone-patellar tendon grafts, consisting of the central one-third of the patellar tendon and a small flake of bone from the tibial crest, were harvested bilaterally from six adult female goats. Animals were killed 13 or 52 weeks after surgery. Mediolateral and craniocaudal radiographs of the operated stifle joints demonstrated two distinct patterns of bone response around the graft harvest site. Reactive bone formation, consistent with low-grade osteitis, was seen around the distal pole of the patella. The second lesion involved the progressive development of dystrophic calcification within the patellar and tibial attachments of the patellar tendon (enthesopathy). We hypothesize that enthesophytes develop in response to changes in strain distribution around the extensor mechanism after patellar tendon harvest. These disturbances in strain distribution may lead to secondary patellofemoral joint dysfunction and adversely affect long-term results after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in man.

The results of a prospective study to compare the plain radiographic and lumbar myelographic findings with the surgical findings in 70 cases of suspected thoracolumbar disc protrusion in the dog are reported. The aim was to assess the relative accuracy of disc lesion localisation using plain and contrast radiography. From the plain radiographs, the affected disc space was correctly identified in 40 cases (57.1 per cent), and incor- rectly identified in seven. More than one site was identified in 11; in eight of these dogs, the affect- ed disc space was strongly suspected. It was not possible to identify an affected disc in 12 cases. The site of disc protrusion was accurately identified by myelography in 60 dogs (85.7 per cent). In four dogs, myelography was helpful in identifying an adjacent disc and, in a further two, cord swelling was found at surgery. In one dog, neither disc material nor cord swelling was identified. Three myelograms were non-diagnostic.

An eight-month-old female great dane was referred for investigation of exercise intolerance that had developed progressively over one month. Examination revealed poor muscle mass, elevated plasma levels of muscle-associated enzymes and electromyographic abnormalities. The dog was euthanased at 15 months old because of severe exercise intolerance. Tissue obtained by biopsy and at post mortem examination revealed prominent well defined central core structures within most muscle fibres, but no other abnormalities. The condition was diagnosed as a central core myopathy.

SummaryUnilateral cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) resection was performed in six goats. Controls for this procedure included the contralateral (non-operated) joints and six normal joints. All CCL-deficient joints had a positive cranial drawer movement throughout the study, whereas all other joints were stable.None of the joints showed gross evidence of degenerative joint disease at necropsy 52 weeks after the operation. In addition, there were no statistically significant differences between either the frequency or severity of radiographic abnormalities in the two groups of joints.Despite long-term joint instability, degenerative joint disease did not develop in the CCL-deficient caprine stifle joint. When the goat is used as a model for anterior cruciate ligament-deficiency in man, the significance of any results should be assessed in the light of these findings.The long-term effects of experi-mentally induced cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) deficiency were studied in goats. All CCL-deficient joints had a positive cranial drawer movement, both immediately after surgery and at the end of the 52 week study. However, there was no evidence of cartilage or meniscal damage at postmortem examination, and stifle radiographs did not reveal evidence of degenerative joint disease.

Acetabular fractures in 16 dogs were repaired using reconstruction plates. Notches cut into the plate permitted contouring in three planes to facilitate accurate articular reconstruction. There were three cranial, seven central, one caudal and five comminuted acetabular fractures. These acetabular fractures were invariably associated with multiple pelvic fractures. Repair of nonacetabular fracture/luxation was indicated in 10 cases. Follow-up information was available for 15 dogs, of which 12 (80 per cent) had an excellent or good outcome. Fracture configuration and the presence of multiple fractures did not influence prognosis. Two dogs died suddenly, late in convalescence, but the cause of death was not established.

Fractures of the lateral fabella were recorded in seven medium or large breed dogs. Six dogs had unilateral fractures and one had bilateral fractures. The fractures appeared to occur spontaneously, without external trauma. Four fractures were managed conservatively and four were treated by surgical removal of the fracture fragments. Both treatments were successful in resolving the lameness.

Eighteen dogs with acute neurological symptoms suggestive of ischaemic myelopathy are described. A presumptive diagnosis of spinal parenchymal infarction, due to fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE), was made in 16 cases. This was confirmed by histological examination post mortem in the remainder. Clinical neurological parameters were the most reliable prognostic indicators following FCE. High dose corticosteroid therapy should be administered as soon as possible to influence the secondary pathophysiological reaction in such cases. Only one dog made a complete neurological recovery, however nine returned to normal activity with-out regaining normal neurological function. Eight dogs required euthanasia.

The efficacy of calcaneoquartal arthrodesis was evaluated retrospectively in 36 dogs (39 joints) with instability of the proximal intertarsal joint. Instability was caused by rupture of the plantar ligament in 27 dogs (75 per cent) while in the remaining nine dogs it was complicated by fractures or luxations of other tarsal bones. The average period between the time of injury and referral was 10 weeks. Thirteen dogs had received prior treatment. Arthrodesis was achieved in 33 of the 39 joints (85 per cent) following the initial surgery, while a further four joints were subsequently successfully treated, giving an overall success rate of 95 per cent. Sixteen limbs (41 per cent) developed complications; these complications were seen more frequently in dogs referred with a history of previous unsuccessful cast or surgical management. After an average follow-up period of 37 months, 76 per cent of the dogs were reported to be sound.

The clinical and radiological findings of five cases of so-called spinal ‘arachnoid cysts’ in dogs are reported. Four cases presented with neurological syndromes suggestive of focal compression of the spinal cord whereas one was clinically asymptomatic. The diagnosis was confirmed in each case by myelography and supported, in three instances, by histopathology. Evidence of spinal dysraphism was common to these cases. The findings are discussed in relation to four previously described cases.

The aim of this paper was to record the types of injuries and causes of lameness exhibited by dogs involved in game shooting. The study investigated gundogs that worked in the seasons 2005/2006 and 2006/2007. Information was acquired by owner questionnaires. The dogs were classified as working in the beating line, as peg dogs or as picking up dogs. A further group comprised Setters and Pointers that worked the grouse moors. A secondary objective was to assess the incidence of injuries that were treated by owners without seeking the assistance of their veterinarian, and to identify those that may have been underestimated. Depending on whether a dog was injured or went lame, and, if so, the nature of the injury, was correlated with the number of days worked, where it worked, its breed and the type of work it did. A mildly positive association between the Spaniel breed group and injuries was seen in 2005/2006 but not in 2006/2007. However, the relationship between the type of work and injuries was very significant for both seasons with dogs working in the beating line being at greatest risk and Setters and Pointers having the least number of injuries. The dogs in the beating line were also at a significantly greater risk of injury in both years when the type of injury was investigated. Fifty-three percent of all injuries were deemed to be sufficiently minor, that veterinary attention was not sought. However, those dogs with proximal thoracic limb lameness may have been under-investigated. There was a highly significant association between tail injuries and undocked Springer and Cocker Spaniels.

A six-year-old male Jack Russell terrier was referred for investigation of an abnormal hindlimb stance and unresolving lesion on the dorsum of the right hindfoot. Clinical examination revealed cutaneous sensory and proprioceptive deficits affecting predominantly the hindlimbs. However, no motor deficits were evident. A sensory abnormality was confirmed by histological examination of a biopsy of a lateral branch of the superficial peroneal nerve, which contained only a single myelinated fibre. The condition was diagnosed as a sensory neuropathy, a disorder previously unrecognised in this breed.

SummaryThe case records of 300 dogs presented for fracture repair following road traffic accident (RTA) or other trauma were studied to determine possible relationships between specific patterns of skeletal trauma and the prevalence of thoracic wall and pulmonary injury.A significantly greater proportion of dogs involved in RTA (31%) sustained thoracic trauma compared ro those injured by other means (2.4%). Although RTA cases were more likely to suffer multiple fractures (23%), there was no significant relationship between the incidence and distribution of a fracture(s) and radiographic evidence of thoracic trauma.Of those dogs with thoracic trauma, pneumothorax and pulmonary contusion were the most frequent injuries; more than one type of injury occurred in 43% of these cases.Clinical management was altered as a result of thoracic injury in 24% of these cases.In a retrospective survey of 300 dogs presented for fracture repair, there was no significant relationship between fracture pattern and the prevalence of thoracic trauma. Following road traffic accident, radio-graphic examination revealed thoracic trauma in 31% of dogs. Clinical management was modified as a result of thoracic injury in 24% of cases.

Fractures of the scapula can be classified into four groups on the basis of the anatomic structures involved: 1. Fractures of the glenoid (articular surface) 2. Fractures of the neck 3. Fractures of the acromion 4. Fractures of the body and spine

The records and radiographs of 24 dogs that underwent femoral trochanteric osteotomy repair were reviewed. Osteotomy repair was performed with either a pin and tension band wire or a lag screw technique. Significant clinical complications associated with the osteotomy were identified in one dog (4 per cent) six weeks after surgery, although abnormal radiographic changes were evident in 15 dogs (62 per cent). The method of repair did not influence healing and there were comparable radiographic complication rates. It is concluded that femoral trochanteric osteotomy is not associated with significant clinical problems, despite a high incidence of abnormal radiographic findings.

Summary A 5-year-old Shetland pony mare with chronic coxofemoral luxation was successfully treated by excision arthroplasty of the femoral head and application of a surgical shoe.

Polypropylene mesh was used to reinforce the medial calcaneal retinaculum in three dogs which required revision of failed repair of superficial digital flexor tendon luxation. All three dogs were sound at follow-up examination three months after surgery.

The clinical features and treatment of eight cats with medial patellar luxation are described. In six cases the condition was bilateral. The luxation was surgically treated in 10 instances and four joints were treated conservatively. Patellar function following surgery was good in 90 per cent of the cases while the results of the conservatively managed joints were disappointing.

A seven-month-old Irish wolfhound suffered an infectious polyarthritis and multiple discospondylitis. Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae was cultured from several of the joints at post mortem examination.

Osteochondrosis, a failure of normal endochondral ossification, represents a significant cause of forelimb lameness in medium to large dogs. This paper describes a series of 58 cases of osteochondrosis of the shoulder and elbow diagnosed at a referral centre over a 30-month period. Affected joints which were persistently painful were treated surgically while the non-painful joints were treated conservatively. Details of the radiographic findings are recorded and a grading system is described to enable comparison between the surgically and conservatively treated joints. The progress of the cases was followed over a minimum period of 6 months and the majority of the dogs were re-examined clinically and radiographically.

A technique using a combination of cutting diathermy and cryosurgery is described for the treatment of canine anal furnunculosis. The expediency of removing the anal sacs is discussed and the results of a cryospray technique compared with a similar procedure using a cryoprobe.

The occurrence of galvanic corrosion between a broken stainless steel drill bit and an adjacent stainless steel screw is described. These apparently similar metals are shown by metallurgical analysis to be significantly different and to be capable of inducing electrolysis.

This paper describes the management of ninety dogs referred with thoracic oesophageal foreign bodies. The diagnosis, treatment and complications are discussed and an overall recovery rate of 83/90 (92.2 per cent) recorded. A conservative approach using oesophagoscopy and forceps delivery was employed in all but seven cases. The advantages of passing the largest possible rigid endoscope under conditions provided by muscle relaxation are emphasized.

A series of eight cases of synovial sarcoma in the dog is presented together with a literature review of previously reported cases. It is an uncommon tumour occuring mainly around joints and affects more males than females. It occurs most frequently in medium to large dogs of middle age. Clinical signs may develop over a long period of time and the tumour is locally invasive with an unpredictable capacity to metatasise. Radiographically it appears as a soft tissue mass which invades bone. Histological diagnosis may be difficult because of the heterogenicity of the tumour and suitable biopsy techniques are discussed. On present evidence amputation appears to be the most effective form of treatment in the dog.

Lameness is a common clinical problem in the dog and a proportion of cases present problems in diagnosis. A systematic approach to their investigation involves history taking, observation of gait and inspection, palpation and manipulation of the suspect limb or limbs. This should allow the clinician to localise and, in many cases, characterise the problem in terms of the likely underlying disease process. This knowledge will then allow recommendations to be made as to the employment of ancillary diagnostic aids.

The response to treatment of seventy cases of anal furunculosis is reviewed. A comparison is made between a surgical technique employing cutting diathermy and a cryosurgical procedure. The reasons for the poor results obtained with each method are discussed.