Thoracodorsal and Caudal Superficial Epigastric Axial Pattern Skin Flaps in Cats

Nonselective angiography, selective angiography, and gross dissection of 15 cadavers were performed to delineate direct cutaneous arteries in the cat. The omocervical, deep circumflex iliac, thoracodorsal, and caudal superficial epigastric arteries were identified by nonselective angiography. Selective angiography and gross dissection allowed assessment of the origin and vascular territories of the thoracodorsal and caudal superficial epigastric arteries. Orthotopic and heterotopic transfers of thoracodorsal and caudal superficial epigastric island flaps were performed on eight cats. All flaps were successful although areas of necrosis at the caudodistal tips were evident in most of the thoracodorsal flaps. The rotated thoracodorsal flaps extended to the carpi. Caudal superficial epigastric flaps enabled coverage to the metatarsus. Seroma formation and partial dehiscence were minor complications.     

Fluoroscopically Guided Closed Reduction and Internal Fixation of Fractures of the Lateral Portion of the Humeral Condyle: Prospective Clinical Study of the Technique and Results in Ten Dogs

OBJECTIVE: To report a technique for fluoroscopically guided closed reduction with internal fixation of fractures of the lateral portion of the humeral condyle (FLHC) and determine the long-term results in 10 clinical cases. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective clinical case study. ANIMALS: Ten dogs with 11 fractures. METHODS: Fractures of the lateral portion of the humeral condyle were stabilized with transcondylar screws and Kirschner wires. Closed reduction and implant placement were achieved using intraoperative fluoroscopic guidance. After fracture repair, postoperative radiographs were evaluated for articular alignment and implant placement. Dogs were evaluated after surgery by means of lameness scores, elbow range of motion (ROM), radiographic assessment, and owner evaluation of function. RESULTS: Postoperative reduction was considered anatomic in 6 fractures with all other fractures having <1.5 mm of malreduction. Follow-up was available for 9 patients from 9 to 21 months after surgery. All of the fractures had healed. One minor (wire migration) and one major (implant failure) complication occurred. Mean lameness scores were 0 (n = 6), 0.5 (n = 2), and 1 (n = 1) at the time of final follow-up. No significant differences were found in follow-up ROM values between affected and unaffected elbows. All of the dogs in this study regained 90-100% of full function, based on owner assessment. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Fluoroscopic guidance for closed reduction and internal fixation of FLHC in dogs is an effective technique.