Comparison of Doppler-derived aortic velocities obtained from various transducer sites in healthy dogs and cats

In normal dogs and dogs with subaortic stenosis, it is known that the subcostal transducer site provides higher left ventricular ejection velocities than does the left apical site. We hypothesized that aortic flow velocities could also be obtained from the right parasternal long-axis view, optimized for the placement of the Doppler cursor as parallel as possible into the aortic root. In 15 healthy dogs and 13 healthy cats, high-pulsed repetition frequency Doppler flow velocity measurements in the proximal aorta were performed using two-dimensional echocardiographic guidance. The mean [ +/- standard error of the mean (SEM)] peak aortic flow velocities in healthy dogs were as follows: subcostal site 1.46 +/- 0.05 m/s; apical site 1.12 +/- 0.06 m/s; right parasternal long-axis site 1.09 +/- 0.05 m/s. In healthy cats, the following peak aortic flow velocities were observed: apical site 0.87 +/- 0.03m/s; right parasternal long-axis site 0.87 +/- 0.03 m/s. Aortic flow velocities obtained from the subcostal site were significantly higher in healthy dogs than those obtained from the left apical and right parasternal long-axis site (P< 0.001). There was no statistical difference between the peak aortic flow velocities obtained from right parasternal long-axis and left apical transducer position in all groups. We conclude therefore that right parasternal long-axis and left apical-derived aortic flow velocities are similar and may be used interchangeably in healthy dogs and cats.

Immunohistochemical demonstration of the putative canine distemper virus receptor CD150 in dogs with and without distemper

Signaling lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM) or CD150 can function as a receptor for the canine distemper virus (CDV) in vitro. The expression of SLAM was studied using immunohistochemistry in order to evaluate the presence and distribution of the receptor in dogs in vivo. Additionally, receptor expression was assessed after experimental infection of dogs with CDV. In 7 control dogs without distemper virus, the receptor was found in various tissues, mostly on cells morphologically identified as lymphocytes and macrophages. In 7 dogs with early distemper lesions characterized by presence of the virus, higher numbers of SLAM-expressing cells were found in multiple tissues recognized as targets of CDV compared with those in control dogs. These findings suggest that SLAM, a putative distemper receptor, is expressed in dogs in vivo. Additionally, virus infection is associated with up-regulation of SLAM, potentially causing an amplification of virus in the host.

Thoracolumbar dorsolateral laminectomy with osteotomy of the spinous process in fourteen dogs

OBJECTIVE: To describe outcome after an alternative unilateral approach to the thoracolumbar spine for dorsal laminectomy. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective clinical study. ANIMALS: Dogs (n=14) with thoracolumbar spinal cord compression. METHODS: Thoracolumbar spinal cord compression was lateral (6 dogs), dorsal (4), and dorsolateral (4) caused by subarachnoid (7) and synovial cysts (2) and intradural-extramedullary neoplasia (5). All dogs were treated by dorsal laminectomy with osteotomy of the spinous process using a unilateral paramedian approach. The contralateral paraspinal muscles were not stripped from the spinous process and the osteoligamentous complexes were preserved. Retraction of the spinous process and muscles to the contralateral side resulted in complete visualization of the dorsal vertebral arch thereby allowing dorsal laminectomy to be performed. RESULTS: No technique complications occurred. Approximately 75% exposure of the spinal cord (dorsal and lateral compartments) was achieved providing adequate visualization and treatment of the lesions. Transient deterioration of neurologic state occurred in 5 dogs because of extensive spinal cord manipulation. At long-term follow-up, 6 dogs were normal, 6 had clinical improvement, and 2 were unchanged. CONCLUSION: Dorsal laminectomy after osteotomy and retraction of the spinous process may be considered in canine patients with dorsal, dorsolateral, or lateral compression to facilitate adequate decompression of the spinal cord. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This surgical technique offers an alternative approach to the thoracolumbar spine and spinal cord by a modified dorsal laminectomy that preserves the paraspinal muscle integrity on the contralateral side.

Iatrogenic sciatic nerve injury in eighteen dogs and nine cats (1997-2006)

OBJECTIVE: To report clinical features associated with iatrogenic peripheral nerve injury in dogs and cats admitted (1997-2006) to a referral teaching hospital. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: Dogs (n=18), 9 cats. METHODS: Patients had acute signs of monoparesis attributable to sciatic nerve dysfunction that developed after treatment. Neurologic examination and electrodiagnostic testing were performed. Surgical therapy was used for nerve entrapment and delayed reconstructive surgery used in other cases. RESULTS: Of 27 nerve injuries, 25 resulted from surgery (18 with treatment of pelvic injuries). Iliosacral luxation repair resulted in tibial (4 cats) and peroneal (3 dogs) nerve dysfunction. Other causes were intramedullary pinning of femoral fractures (3), other orthopedic surgery (cemented hip prosthesis [2] and tibial plateau-leveling osteotomy [1]), and perineal herniorrhaphy [1]. Nerve injury occurred after intramuscular injection (1 cat, 1 dog). Immediate surgical treatment was removal of intramedullary nails, extruded cement, or entrapping suture. Delayed nerve transplantation was performed in 2 dogs. Within 1 year, 13 patients recovered completely, clinical improvement occurred in 7, and there was no improvement in 7. Five of the 7 dogs that did not recover had acetabular or ilium fracture. CONCLUSION: Iatrogenic sciatic nerve injury occurred most commonly during treatment of pelvic orthopedic diseases and had a poor prognosis. Clinical variation in sciatic nerve dysfunction in dogs and cats can be explained by species anatomic differences. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Iatrogenic sciatic nerve injury leads to severely debilitating locomotor dysfunction with an uncertain prognosis for full-functional recovery.

Ventral intraspinal cysts associated with the intervertebral disc: magnetic resonance imaging observations in seven dogs

OBJECTIVE: To report clinical and diagnostic imaging features, and outcome after surgical treatment of ventral intraspinal cysts in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: Dogs (n=7) with ventral intraspinal cysts. METHODS: Clinical signs, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and surgical findings of 7 dogs and histologic findings (1 dog) with intraspinal cysts associated with the intervertebral disc were reviewed. RESULTS: Ventral intraspinal cyst is characterized by: (1) clinical signs indistinguishable from those of typical disc herniation; (2) an extradural, round to oval, mass lesion with low T1 and high T2 signal intensity on MRI, compatible with a liquid-containing cyst; (3) cyst is in close proximity to the intervertebral disc; and (4) MRI signs of disc degeneration. Although the exact cause is unknown, underlying minor disc injury may predispose to cyst formation. CONCLUSION: Intraspinal cysts have clinical signs identical to those of disc herniation. Given the close proximity of the cyst to the corresponding disc and the similarity of MRI findings to discal cysts in humans, we propose the term "canine discal cyst" to describe this observation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Discal cysts should be considered in the differential choices for cystic extradural compressing lesions.

Magnetic resonance imaging features of orbital inflammation with intracranial extension in four dogs

This retrospective study describes the clinical and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features of chronic orbital inflammation with intracranial extension in four dogs (two Dachshunds, one Labrador, one Swiss Mountain). Intracranial extension was observed through the optic canal (n=1), the orbital fissure (n=4), and the alar canal (n=1). On T1-weighted images structures within the affected skull foramina could not be clearly differentiated, but were all collectively isointense to hypointense compared with the contralateral, unaffected side, or compared with gray matter. On T2-, short tau inversion recovery (STIR)-, or fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR)-weighted images structures within the affected skull foramina appeared hyperintense compared with gray matter, and extended with increased signal into the rostral cranial fossa (n=1) and middle cranial fossa (n=4). Contrast enhancement at the level of the affected skul foramina as well as at the skull base in continuity with the orbital fissure was observed in all patients. Brain edema or definite meningeal enhancement could not be observed, but a close anatomic relationship of the abnormal tissue to the cavernous sinus was seen in two patients. Diagnosis was confirmed in three dogs (one cytology, two biopsy, one necropsy) and was presumptive in one based on clinical improvement after treatment. This study is limited by its small sample size, but provides evidence for a potential risk of intracranial extension of chronic orbital inflammation. This condition can be identified best by abnormal signal increase at the orbital fissure on transverse T2-weighted images, on dorsal STIR images, or on postcontrast transverse or dorsal images.

MRI characteristics and histology of bone marrow lesions in dogs with experimentally induced osteoarthritis

Signal changes within the bone marrow adjacent to osteoarthritic joints are commonly seen on magnetic resonance (MR) images in humans and in dogs. The histological nature of these lesions is poorly known. In this study, we describe the MR imaging of bone marrow lesions adjacent to the stifle joints of dogs with experimental osteoarthritis over 13 months. Histology of the proximal tibia at the end of the study was compared with the last MR imaging findings. In five adult dogs, the left cranial cruciate ligament was transected. Post-operatively, MR imaging was performed at 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, and 13 months. Dogs were euthanised after 13 months and histological specimen of the proximal tibia were evaluated. Bone marrow edema like MR imaging signal changes were seen in every MR examination of all dogs in one or more locations of the proximal tibia and the distal femur. Lesions varied in size and location throughout the whole study with the exception of constantly seen lesions in the epiphyseal and metaphyseal region at the level of the tibial eminence. On histology, hematopoiesis and myxomatous transformation of the bone marrow and/or intertrabecular fibrosis without signs of bone marrow edema were consistent findings in the areas corresponding to the MR imaging signal changes. We conclude that within the bone marrow, zones of increased signal intensity on fat suppressed MR images do not necessarily represent edema but can be due to cellular infiltration. Contrary to humans, hematopoiesis is seen in bone marrow edema-like lesions in this canine model of osteoarthritis.

Two-dimensional grayscale ultrasound and spectral Doppler waveform evaluation of dogs with chronic enteropathies

Sonography is an important diagnostic tool to examine the gastrointestinal tract of dogs with chronic diarrhea. Two-dimensional grayscale ultrasound parameters to assess for various enteropathies primarily focus on wall thickness and layering. Mild, generalized thickening of the intestinal wall with maintenance of the wall layering is common in inflammatory bowel disease. Quantitative and semi-quantitative spectral Doppler arterial waveform analysis can be utilized for various enteropathies, including inflammatory bowel disease and food allergies. Dogs with inflammatory bowel disease have inadequate hemodynamic responses during digestion of food. Dogs with food allergies have prolonged vasodilation and lower resistive and pulsatility indices after eating allergen-inducing foods.

Treatment of tibial fractures with plates using minimally invasive percutaneous osteosynthesis in dogs and cats

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the here described case series was to develop and evaluate the minimally invasive percutaneous osteosynthesis for the plate fixation of tibial fractures in dogs and cats. METHODS: Six dogs and four cats with shaft fractures of the tibia were treated using minimally invasive percutaneous osteosynthesis. Follow-up radiographs four to six weeks after fracture fixation were evaluated for fracture healing. For the long-term follow-up (minimum 2.4 years), owners were contacted by phone to complete a questionnaire. RESULTS: All fractures healed without the need for a second procedure. Follow-up radiographs obtained after four to six weeks in seven cases showed advanced bony healing with callus formation and filling of the fracture gaps with calcified tissue in all seven. All the patients had a good to excellent long-term result with full limb function. The time needed for regaining full limb use was two to three months. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Minimally invasive percutaneous osteosynthesis seems to be a useful technique for the treatment of tibial shaft fractures in dogs and cats.

Cerebellar cortical degeneration with selective granule cell loss in Bavarian mountain dogs

Three Bavarian mountain dogs aged between 18 and 20 months, not related to each other, were presented with chronic signs of cerebellar dysfunction. On sagittal T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging brain images, the tentative diagnosis of cerebellar hypoplasia was established based on an enlarged cerebrospinal fluid space around the cerebellum and an increased cerebrospinal fluid signal between the folia. Post-mortem examination was performed in one dog and did show an overall reduction of cerebellar size. On histopathologic examination, a selective loss of cerebellar granule cells with sparing of Purkinje cells was evident. Therefore, the Bavarian mountain dog is a breed where cerebellar cortical degeneration caused by the rather exceptional selective granule cell loss can be seen as cause of chronic, slowly progressive cerebellar dysfunction starting at an age of several months.

Comparative quantitative assessment of GnRH- and LH-receptor mRNA expression in the urinary tract of sexually intact and spayed female dogs

Ovariectomy interrupts the regulatory loop in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad axis, leading to a several-fold increase in gonadotropin levels. This rise in hormonal secretion may play a causal role in ovariectomy-related urinary incontinence. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of ovariectomy in bitches on the expression of GnRH- and LH-receptors in the lower urinary tract, and assess the relationship between receptor expression and plasma gonadotropin concentrations. Plasma gonadotropins were measured in 37 client-owned bitches. Biopsies were harvested from the mid-ventral bladder wall in all dogs, and from nine further locations within the lower urinary tract in 17 of the 37 animals. Messenger RNA of the LH and GnRH receptors was quantified using RT-PCR with the TaqMan Universal PCR Master Mix. Gonadotropins were measured with a canine-specific FSH-immunoradiometric assay and LH-radioimmunoassay. The hierarchical mixed ANOVA model using MINITAB, Mann-Whitney U-test, unpaired means comparison and linear regressions using StatView were applied for statistical analyses. Messenger RNA for both receptors was detected in all biopsy samples. Age was negatively correlated to mRNA expression of the LH and the GnRH receptors. A relationship between the mRNA values and the plasma gonadotropin concentrations was not established. Evaluation of results within each of the biopsy locations revealed greater LH-receptor expression in the proximal second quarter of the urethra in spayed bitches than in intact bitches (P=0.0481). Increased mRNA expression of LH receptors in this location could possibly play a role in the decrease in closing pressure of the urethra following ovariectomy.

Spontaneous progression of ligature induced peri-implantitis at implants with different surface roughness: an experimental study in dogs

BACKGROUND: Peri-implantitis is associated with the presence of submarginal plaque, soft-tissue inflammation and advanced breakdown of the supporting bone. The progression of peri-implantitis following varying periods of continuing plaque accumulation has been studied in animal models. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the current experiment was to study the progression of peri-implantitis around implants with different surface roughness. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In five beagle dogs, three implants with either a sandblasted acid-etched surface (SLA) or a polished surface (P) were installed bilaterally in the edentulous premolar regions. After 3 months on a plaque control regimen, experimental peri-implantitis was induced by ligature placement and plaque accumulation was allowed to progress until about 40% of the height of the supporting bone had been lost. After this 4-month period, ligatures were removed and plaque accumulation was continued for an additional 5 months. Radiographs of all implant sites were obtained before and after 'active' experimental peri-implantitis as well as at the end of the experiment. Biopsies were harvested and the tissue samples were prepared for light microscopy. The sections were used for histometric and morphometric examinations. RESULTS: The radiographic examinations indicated that similar amounts of bone loss occurred at SLA and P sites during the active breakdown period, while the progression of bone loss was larger at SLA than at polished sites following ligature removal. The histological examination revealed that both bone loss and the size of the inflammatory lesion in the connective tissue were larger in SLA than in polished implant sites. The area of plaque was also larger at implants with an SLA surface than at implants with a polished surface. CONCLUSION: It is suggested that the progression of peri-implantitis, if left untreated, is more pronounced at implants with a moderately rough surface than at implants with a polished surface.

Morphogenesis of the peri-implant mucosa: an experimental study in dogs

PURPOSE: The objective of the present experiment was to study the morphogenesis of the mucosal attachment to implants made of c.p. titanium. MATERIAL AND METHODS: All mandibular premolars were extracted in 20 Labrador dogs. After a healing period of 3 months, four implants (ITI Dental Implant System) were placed in the right and left sides of the mandible. A non-submerged implant installation technique was used and the mucosal tissues were secured to the conical marginal portion of the implants with interrupted sutures. The sutures were removed after 2 weeks and a plaque control program including daily cleaning of the remaining teeth and the implants was initiated. The animals were sacrificed and biopsies were obtained at various intervals to provide healing periods extending from Day 0 (2 h) to 12 weeks. The mandibles were removed and placed in the fixative. The implant sites were dissected using a diamond saw and processed for histological analysis. RESULTS: Large numbers of neutrophils infiltrated and degraded the coagulum that occupied the compartment between the mucosa and the implant during the initial phase of healing. At 2 weeks after surgery, fibroblasts were the dominating cell population in the connective tissue interface but at 4 weeks the density of fibroblasts had decreased. Furthermore, the first signs of epithelial proliferation were observed in specimens representing 1-2 weeks of healing and a mature barrier epithelium occurred after 6-8 weeks of healing. The collagen fibers of the mucosa were organized after 4-6 weeks of healing. CONCLUSION: It is suggested that the soft-tissue attachment to implants placed using a non-submerged installation procedure is properly established after several weeks following surgery.

Cadaver dogs--a study on detection of contaminated carpet squares

INTRODUCTION: Cadaver dogs are known as valuable forensic tools in crime scene investigations. Scientific research attempting to verify their value is largely lacking, specifically for scents associated with the early postmortem interval. The aim of our investigation was the comparative evaluation of the reliability, accuracy, and specificity of three cadaver dogs belonging to the Hamburg State Police in the detection of scents during the early postmortem interval. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Carpet squares were used as an odor transporting media after they had been contaminated with the scent of two recently deceased bodies (PMI<3h). The contamination occurred for 2 min as well as 10 min without any direct contact between the carpet and the corpse. Comparative searches by the dogs were performed over a time period of 65 days (10 min contamination) and 35 days (2 min contamination). RESULTS: The results of this study indicate that the well-trained cadaver dog is an outstanding tool for crime scene investigation displaying excellent sensitivity (75-100), specificity (91-100), and having a positive predictive value (90-100), negative predictive value (90-100) as well as accuracy (92-100).