The clinical and radiological features associated with spinal tumours in thirty dogs

The clinical, neurological and radiographic features of thirty dogs with spinal tumours are described. Twenty were investigated at post mortem, and of these, eleven had primary nerve tissue tumours, four primary vertebral tumours, and in the remaining five the spinal involvement was secondary from neoplasms elsewhere in the body.     

Thoracic bite trauma in dogs: a comparison of clinical and radiological parameters with surgical results

OBJECTIVES: Canine bite wounds may cause severe underlying tissue trauma even with no clinically evident puncture wounds. In order to assess the ability of pre-operative diagnostic parameters to predict the extent of internal damage inflicted by a thoracic bite wound, the clinical, radiological and surgical data of 45 dogs that sustained thoracic bite trauma were recorded. METHODS: Clinical, radiographic and surgical parameters from 45 dogs of various breeds with thoracic bite trauma, were analysed (P<0.05). All dogs were treated according to a previously described protocol and had exploratory surgery including a thoracotomy. RESULTS: Mainly small-breed dogs were traumatised. Clinical and radiological data were suggestive of internal trauma but not reliable as accurate indicators for internal lesions. Only radiological evidence of lung contusion was significantly associated with the presence of surgically confirmed lung contusion (P=0.006). Dogs with postoperative wound complications had a significantly higher risk of dying than those without complications (P=0.04). CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This study concludes that according to protocol an optimal management of thoracic bite wounds in small dogs includes surgical exploration of the wound and the thoracic cavity in the presence of flail or pseudo-flail chest, fractured ribs, radiological evidence of lung contusion, pneumothorax or any combination of these.     

Insulin-secreting tumor: diagnosis and medical and surgical management in 55 dogs

Insulin-secreting tumor of the pancreas was diagnosed in 55 dogs. Diagnosis was based mainly on the increase of serum insulin concentrations in the presence of hypoglycemia. The use of the amended insulin/glucose ratio to diagnose the tumor, although providing less false-negative results than did increased serum insulin concentrations alone, appeared less specific and gave false-positive results in dogs without insulin-secreting tumors. Management of the disease included surgical intervention alone (26 dogs), surgery plus medical management with diazoxide (14 dogs), and medical management with diazoxide alone (4 dogs). Eleven dogs were euthanatized at the time of diagnosis. Diazoxide therapy controlled hypoglycemia in about 70% of the dogs.     

Lumbosacral stenosis in 29 military working dogs: epidemiologic findings and outcome after surgical intervention (1990-1999)

OBJECTIVE: To study the outcome of military working dogs (MWDs) diagnosed with degenerative lumbosacral stenosis (DLS) after surgical intervention and to determine what prognostic indicators affected outcome. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: Twenty-nine MWDs with DLS. METHODS: The medical records of dogs diagnosed and surgically treated for DLS at the Department of Defense Military Working Dog Veterinary Service Hospital were reviewed. Retrieved data were signalment, clinical signs, survey radiograph results, and surgical findings. RESULTS: Breed and sex were not found to have prognostic significance. Increasing age at surgery correlated with a poor surgical outcome. Twelve dogs (41%) returned to normal function, 11 (38%) improved, and 6 (20%) never returned to active duty. The average age at surgery was 74 months, 93 months, and 112 months for normal, improved, and dogs not returning to duty, respectively. Significant clinical findings associated with a poor prognosis were related to increasing neurologic severity. The only significant radiographic finding indicating a poor prognosis was foraminal narrowing. Surgical findings with negative prognostic significance were hypertrophic articular facets and interarcuate ligament. Recurrence rates were 16.7% and 54.5% for normal and improved dogs, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: MWDs with DLS have a good prognosis with surgical decompression if they are young dogs with mild clinical signs at the time of diagnosis. As age and severity of clinical signs increase, the prognosis for successful outcome decreases. Recurrence may be seen in some dogs. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Information provided by this study should help military veterinarians determine the prognosis for working dogs with DLS after surgical treatment.     

Magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis and surgical management of sacral osteochondrosis in a mastiff dog

The clinical, radiographic, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), surgical and pathological findings related to an osteochondral lesion of the sacrum in a mastiff dog are described. The dog showed chronic signs of pain in its pelvic limbs. Radiography revealed a triangular mineralised opacity at the craniodorsal aspect of the sacrum consistent with sacral osteochondrosis. A T2-weighted spin-echo MRI revealed dorsal and lateral compression of the cauda equina. The osteochondral fragment was removed via a dorsal laminectomy, and the clinical signs resolved. Histological abnormalities in the fragment were consistent with a diagnosis of osteochondrosis.     

Canine intraspinal meningiomas: imaging features, histopathologic classification, and long-term outcome in 34 dogs

BACKGROUND: Meningioma is the most common primary intraspinal nervous system tumor in dogs. Clinical findings, clinicopathologic data, and treatment of these tumors have been reported sporadically, but little information is available regarding cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, histologic tumor grade, or efficacy of radiation therapy as an adjunct to cytoreductive surgery. ANIMALS: Dogs with histologically confirmed intraspinal meningiomas (n = 34). METHODS: A retrospective study of dogs with intraspinal meningiomas between 1984 and 2006 was carried out. Signalment, historical information, physical examination, clinicopathologic data, radiation therapy protocols, surgery reports, and all available images were reviewed. All tumors were histologically classified and graded as defined by the international World Health Organization classification scheme for central nervous system tumors. RESULTS: Intraspinal mengiomas in dogs are most common in the cervical spinal cord but can be found throughout the neuraxis. Location is correlated with histologic grade, with grade I tumors more likely to be in the cervical region than grade II tumors. Myelography generally shows an intradural extramedullary compressive lesion. On magnetic resonance imaging, the masses are strongly and uniformly contrast enhancing and a dural tail often is present. CSF analysis usually shows increased protein concentration with mild to moderate mixed pleocytosis. Surgical resection is an effective means of improving neurologic status, and adjunctive radiation therapy may lead to an improved outcome. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Biopsy is necessary for definitive diagnosis, but imaging and CSF analysis can suggest a diagnosis of meningioma. Treatment of meningiomas with surgery and radiation therapy can result in a fair to excellent prognosis.     

Oesophageal leiomyosarcoma in dogs: surgical management and clinical outcome of four cases

Oesophageal leiomyosarcoma has yet to be reported in dogs. This retrospective case series describes the case management and clinical outcome of four dogs with oesophageal leiomyosarcoma treated by marginal excision alone. Histological features used to determine tumour grade included capsular invasion, percent necrosis, pleomorphism and mitotic rate. All tumours were designated grade 1 leiomyosarcoma. Excision of all grossly evident tumour tissue was achieved in two of the four cases; however, histopathologic evaluation showed tumour cells at the surgical margins in one of these two cases. Two dogs had grossly incomplete excision. Two dogs died from unrelated conditions, one 3 years and 5.5 months after surgery, the other at 65 days. One dog had persistent mega‐oesophagus and was lost to follow‐up 388 days after surgery and one dog is still alive (last follow‐up 405 days after surgery). Despite large tumour size and incomplete excision, surgical removal of low‐grade leiomyosarcomas can result in long‐term resolution of clinical signs.     

The radiological features of osteosarcoma of the appendicular skeleton in dogs: a review of 74 cases

The clinical features, sites of origin and radiological changes associated with 75 osteosarcomas of the appendicular skeleton in 74 dogs are reviewed. Clinical data and the areas affected were broadly similar to those in previously reported series of cases, but the precise sites of origin were found to vary considerably from the generally accepted predeliction site, which is the metaphysis. A wide spectrum of radiological changes was recorded. Only 61.3 per cent of tumours could be classified as characteristic. A further 21.3 per cent showed features suggestive of, but not specific for, osteosarcoma and were therefore classified as equivocal. In the remaining 17.3 per cent the radiological signs, although indicative of neoplasia and usually of malignancy, were quite uncharacteristic. Among 63 cases in which both radiographic and post-mortem examination of the lungs was performed the incidence of pulmonary metastases was 13 per cent, with total correlation between their radiological and pathological detection. Of ten dogs which were treated surgically, one with a radiographically atypical lesion has survived for more than four years.     

Chylothorax in 34 dogs

Thirty-four dogs with chylothorax were studied retrospectively. In 24 dogs, chylothorax appeared to be idiopathic, with only 10 dogs having evidence of neoplasia or trauma. Rupture of the thoracic duct secondary to trauma appeared to be a much less common cause for the development of a chylous pleural effusion than that reported previously. The Afghan Hound was the breed most commonly affected, comprising 37.5% of the dogs in the idiopathic category and 26.5% of all dogs with chylothorax. A clear correlation between the cause of chylothorax and age was not apparent, and gender and neutering appeared to have no relationship to the development of chylothorax in the dog.     

Plasma amino acids in dogs with osteochondrosis or hip dysplasia

Radiography of the hip joints of mature dogs has shown that hip dysplasia is quite common in many middle and large size breeds in Norway. The heritability of hip dysplasia has been estimated in several studies to be between 0.2 and 0.6 (Hedhammar et al 1979). This indicates that environmental factors are important for development and severity of hip dysplasia.     

Autogenous osteochondral grafting for treatment of stifle osteochondrosis in dogs

Objective— To develop and assess clinical outcomes for osteochondral autografting for treatment of stifle osteochondrosis (OC) in dogs. Study Design— Retrospective case series. Animals— Dogs with stifle OC (n=10). Methods— Osteochondral autografting was developed and optimized in canine cadavers and purpose‐bred research dogs using the Osteochondral Autograft Transfer System (OATS). Dogs with stifle OC (n=10 dogs, 12 stifles) were then treated using the OATS system. Outcomes were assessed by radiography (n=12), magnetic resonance imaging (1), second‐look arthroscopy (9), lameness scoring (12), and telephone survey of owners (10 clients, 12 stifles) 6–15 months after surgery. Results— Complications were documented in 4 of the 12 stifles treated and included peri‐incisional seromas (3) and marked stifle effusion (1). Subjective assessment of follow‐up radiographs revealed evidence of integration of the grafts with maintenance of subchondral bone surface architecture. Subjective assessment of follow‐up MRI in 1 stifle revealed evidence for incorporation of grafts with restoration of articular surface contour. Second‐look arthroscopy 6–30 weeks after surgery revealed maintenance of articular cartilage at the graft site. Dogs were significantly (P<.001) less lame at follow‐up compared with preoperative scores. Based on follow‐up owner surveys, only 2 dogs had no pain or lameness; the other dogs were judged to have mild pain and/or lameness. All owners noticed improvement in the dogs' quality of life after surgery. Conclusion— Osteochondral autografting deserves consideration and further evaluation as a primary treatment option for stifle OC in dogs. Clinical Relevance— Osteochondral autografting for treatment of lateral femoral condylar OC lesions in dogs using OATS instrumentation is safe and results in improved function and quality of life based on owners' perception 6–15 months after treatment.     

Clinical features and management of snake bites in 70 dogs in Korea

BackgroundSnakebites remain a devastating and life-threatening environmental hazard. While the management of snakebites has been well described in humans, few clinical data and guidelines exist for dogs, especially in Korea.ObjectivesThis retrospective study evaluated the clinical features of 70 dogs with snakebite wounds in Korea.MethodsThe medical records of 72 dogs that presented to three animal hospitals from June 2008 to July 2021 were reviewed; among these, 70 dogs that met the inclusion criteria were enrolled. Their signalment, history, clinical signs, physical examination, blood analysis, treatment, and prognosis were also evaluated.ResultsOf 70 dog owners, 35 (50%) witnessed the bite, with a mean time between bite and hospital presentation of 9.7 ± 4.1 h in 58 dogs. Blood smears were evaluated in 45 dogs, of which 28 (62%) showed echinocytosis. Anemia and acute kidney injury were found in 21 (29%) and 2 dogs (3%), respectively. A total of 37 dogs (53%) were hospitalized, 5 (7%) of which died.ConclusionsThe most significant finding was the high prevalence of echinocytosis. The data from this retrospective study could inform the management of dogs bitten by snakes in Korea.     

Radiographic diagnosis and surgical management of fragmented medial coronoid process in dogs

The diagnosis of fragmented (ununited) medial coronoid process was made in 21 dogs, with 10 dogs having bilateral lesions. Ten of these dogs were presented to surgery. The diagnosis of fragmented medial coronoid process was made in young and middle-aged large- and giant-breed dogs with a history of intermittent or persistent lameness. Diagnosis was based on history as well as results of clinical examination and radiographic study of both elbows. Concomitant elbow lesions seen with fragmented medial coronoid processes were ununited anconeal process and osteochondritis dissecans of the medial humeral condyle. Avulsion of the medial epicondyle and posteromedial supracondylar ridge of the humerus were thought not to have occurred in these cases. Instead, dystrophic ossification of the synovial membrane and periosteal proliferation on the medial epicondyle and posteromedial supracondylar ridge had taken place. It was concluded that, with a questionable radiographic diagnosis of fragmented medial coronoid process, exploratory arthrotomy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Without surgery, the eventual outcome of fragmented coronoid process is degenerative joint disease. Even with degenerative joint disease, however, clinical improvement was seen following removal of the fragment of the medial coronoid process.     

Ultrasonographic diagnosis and surgical management of double intestinal intussusception in 3 dogs

The diagnosis and treatment of double intestinal intussusception in 3 pups with persistent vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, anemia, leucocytosis, and electrolyte imbalance are described. Ultrasonography confirmed intussusception and laparotomy revealed double intussusceptions. Intussusceptions were corrected by manual reduction in 1 pup and intestinal resection and anastomosis in 2 pups. Two pups survived and 1 pup died on the 4th day after surgery.     

Clinical features and heritability of osteochondrosis of the elbow in labrador retrievers

The occurrence of osteochondrosis in a breeding colony of labrador retrievers during an 11-year period was investigated. Management practices and environmental factors were similar for all dogs. In 1247 progeny, elbow lameness was recorded in 259 dogs (21 per cent) and lesions of osteochondrosis on the coronoid process and, or, medial condyle of the humerus were confirmed in 189 dogs (15 per cent). None of 39 labrador crossbred dogs were affected. The incidence in progeny varied between different sires and dams and was associated with the severity of radiographic evidence of elbow arthritis in sires and dams with dams contributing significantly more than sires, suggesting a ‘maternal’ effect.     

A review of the salient features of osteochondrosis in the horse

There appears to be an increasing incidence of osteochondrosis in young fast-growing horses in Europe and the USA. The disease is thought to be congenital in type and affects endochondral ossification in growing bones. It can be localised to one joint or may be a generalised condition. The clinical manifestations of the disease lead to a secondary chronic degenerative joint disease in adult animals. There is a genetic predisposition to the condition which is associated with rapid growth and excessive high energy feeding. The careful genetic selection of bloodstock and restricted intake in early life can greatly assist in decreasing the incidence of the disease.     

Diagnosis and surgical management of ureteral calculi in dogs: 16 cases (1990-2003)

AIMS: To examine the clinical signs, laboratory and radiographic findings, surgical technique, ureterolith composition, and post-operative outcomes in dogs managed surgically for ureterolithiasis to determine whether surgical removal of ureteroliths in dogs resulted in a positive clinical outcome. METHODS: The medical record database of a university veterinary hospital in Pennsylvania, USA, was searched for dogs that underwent surgery to remove obstructive ureteral calculi between 1990 and 2003. Records were reviewed for signalment, clinical history and examination findings, radiographic and laboratory test results, surgical technique, and ureterolith analysis. Follow-up information was obtained from telephone interviews with owners or referring veterinarians, or by reviewing the medical record of subsequent hospital visits. RESULTS: Sixteen dogs were included in this study; ten were neutered females, two intact females and four castrated males. Abdominal radiography revealed ureteral calculi in 14/16 dogs, renal calculi in 8/16, cystic calculi in 8/16, urethral calculi in 1/16, renomegaly in 6/16 and renal mineralisation in 5/16. Ureterolith type included struvite in six dogs, calcium oxalate in five, calcium phosphate in one, and a mix of struvite, calcium phosphate and calcium oxalate in another. Compared to dogs with non-struvite ureteroliths, those with struvite ureteroliths had a higher pre-operative white blood cell (WBC) count (25.6, SD 7 vs 17.6, SD 6 x 103 cells/mul; p=0.046), and were more likely to have a purulent discharge from the ureteral incision noted at the time of surgery (p=0.015). Following discharge, 14/16 dogs were re-evaluated. Median survival time was 904 days (range 2-1,876). Two dogs required additional surgery on the urinary tract. Four dogs died or were euthanised because of azotaemia and clinical signs related to the urinary system or non-specific signs of illness (vomiting, lethargy) at 8, 90, 333 and 904 days post-operatively. CONCLUSIONS: Surgical management of ureteroliths was successful and resulted in good long-term survival in the majority of dogs examined in this small study population. Similar proportions of calcium oxalate and struvite ureteroliths were identified. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The use of the ureteral surgery may increase as the frequency of diagnosis of ureteroliths in dogs increases.