Acute non-ambulatory tetraparesis in a 6-month-old Standardbred weanling caused by a cervical vertebral epidural haematoma

A 6-month-old Standardbred weanling presented with acute non-ambulatory tetraparesis. Cranial nerve examination was normal and neuroanatomic localisation suggested there was a focal C1-C5 spinal cord lesion. Post-mortem examination identified a cervical vertebral epidural haematoma at the level of C2-C3 causing spinal cord compression and neurological deficits. Histological examination determined the haematoma was several weeks old making the lesion chronic. Since the clinical progression was acute, this suggests an acute on chronic pathophysiology. Even with no history of trauma, an epidural haematoma should be on the differential list in young horses with acute tetraparesis.     

Surgical resolution of accidental intramuscular injection of Gudair® vaccine in a mare

This case report describes the accidental intramuscular administration of 20 mL Gudair® vaccine to a 7‐year‐old Standardbred mare and successful treatment of the resulting inflammatory reaction by radical surgical resection.     

Inguinal Herniation of the Ascending Colon in a 6‐month‐old Standardbred Colt

Objective— To report inguinal herniation of the ascending colon in a Standardbred colt. Study Design— Case report. Animals— A 6‐month‐old Standardbred colt. Methods— The colt underwent surgical exploration of the hernia with large colon resection and anastomosis. Results— A successful large colon resection and anastomosis was completed, however, the colt was euthanatized at the end of surgery upon owner request. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance— Although uncommon, indirect inguinal herniation of the ascending colon can occur in young horses.     

Standing repair of an articular dorsal medial oblique fracture of the proximal third metacarpal bone in a racing Standardbred

The third metacarpal bone (McIII) is a common site of long bone fractures in racehorses. However, articular fractures of the dorsomedial aspect of McIII are a rare location of such injuries. This report describes the successful standing surgical repair of an articular fracture of the dorso-medial proximal McIII in a 4-year-old Standardbred racing mare using lag screw fixation.     

Bilateral dentigerous cysts (heterotopic polyodontia) in a yearling Standardbred colt

This article describes the occurrence of bilateral dentigerous cysts in a 1‐year‐old entire male Standardbred horse. Computer tomography (CT) with a positive contrast CT fistulogram was used to accurately define the anatomy of the cysts preoperatively. Conventional surgical techniques were used to remove the cysts under general anaesthesia. The CT studies were able to precisely define the margins of the cysts and facilitated uncomplicated surgical excision. Follow‐up examination of the animal revealed excellent cosmesis at the surgical site. Histology was used to confirm the diagnosis of bilateral dentigerous cysts. Preoperative CT studies are invaluable to precisely define the anatomical locations of the dental anomalies associated with dentigerous cysts and thereby allow confident and uncomplicated excision. Dentigerous cysts may occur bilaterally in horses.     

A case of lipogranulomatous conjunctivitis in a horse

Objective

To describe a case of lipogranulomatous conjunctivitis in a horse.

Animal Studied

A client-owned 12-year-old Standardbred gelding presenting with chronic conjunctivitis and palpebral masses.

Methods

Complete ophthalmic examination, surgical excision, histopathology, and bacterial culture of biopsy samples were performed.

Results

Upper and lower eyelids of both eyes were affected, with multiple yellow-to-white nodules on the palpebral conjunctiva, adjacent to the eyelid margin. Nodule removal was achieved via partial tarsal plate excision. Histopathological examination revealed granulomatous inflammation and large droplets of presumed free lipid in the conjunctival lamina propria. The animal was diagnosed with lipogranulomatous conjunctivitis. No postoperative ocular discomfort was observed for months; however, 3 years later, new conjunctival nodules were noticed, requiring a second surgical procedure on three of the eyelids. Transient entropion in the left lower eyelid was observed 2 months after the second surgery, and no recurrence of conjunctival nodules was observed after 18 months of follow-up.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first report of lipogranulomatous conjunctivitis in horses.     

Retroperitoneal hemangiosarcoma causing chronic hindlimb lameness in a dog.

The clinical, radiographic, ultrasonographic, computed tomographic, surgical and histopathological findings in a Boxer dog with retroperitoneal hemangiosarcoma are described in this study. A seven-year-old, male, castrated Boxer dog was referred for evaluation of chronic hindlimb lameness. The physical examination revealed muscle atrophy and sciatic nerve deficits. Radiography and ultrasonography revealed a caudodorsal abdominal mass. Computed tomography revealed that the mass involved the left margin of the L7 vertebra, lumbosacral canal, and lumbosacral plexus. At surgery, a large retroperitoneal haematoma was removed. Histopathology of amorphous tissue found near the haematoma was consistent with haemangiosarcoma. The owner declined any further treatment. Ten weeks after discharge, the dog was euthanatized due to collapse and haemo-abdomen.     

Urethral and bladder rupture in a neonatal colt with uroperitoneum

This case report documents uroperitoneum due to bladder and pelvic urethral rupture in a 9 h old Standardbred colt born after severe dystocia. Three surgical procedures were required to manage rupture of the urinary bladder, urethral rupture, and ventral abdominal hernia with evisceration of a loop of jejunum. After 40 days of hospitalisation the colt was discharged without any further complication.     

Laparoscopic treatment of persistent inguinal haemorrhage after prescrotal orchiectomy in a dog

A one‐year‐old male Jack Russell terrier developed a prescrotal haematoma after elective orchiectomy. When surgical exploration failed to locate the responsible vessel and conservative therapy (applying a pressure bandage) was not successful in stabilising the dog, abdominal laparoscopy was performed. The haemorrhage originated from the spermatic cord in the inguinal canal bilaterally. After retracting the spermatic cord into the abdomen, haemostasis was performed using a vessel‐sealing device. The prescrotal haematoma was removed and the dog made an uncomplicated recovery.     

Distal Humeral Salter Harris (Type II) Fracture Repair by an Ulnar Osteotomy Approach in a Horse

Objectives: To report repair of a comminuted distal humeral type II Salter–Harris fracture using an ulnar osteotomy approach and locking compression plates (LCP). Study Design: Case report. Animal: A 3‐month‐old Standardbred filly with a type II Salter–Harris fracture of the distal humerus. Methods: Radiographic and computed tomography examinations were performed to assist surgical planning. The distal humeral fracture was approached by an ulnar osteotomy and repaired using a 7‐hole broad LCP and screws inserted in lag fashion. The osteotomy was subsequently repaired using a 7‐hole narrow LCP. Results: The distal humeral fracture was successfully approached and stabilized by an ulnar osteotomy approach. At 6‐month follow‐up, the filly was ambulating comfortably with a normal cosmetic appearance. Conclusions: An ulnar osteotomy approach was readily performed and allowed for repair of a type II Salter–Harris fracture of the distal humerus. Clinical Relevance: The equine distal humerus can be accessed readily using an ulnar osteotomy approach. LCPs allow for repair of complicated fractures that have previously been associated with a grave prognosis.     

Small colon intussusception in a broodmare

A 9-year-old pregnant Standardbred broodmare was evaluated for signs of mild abdominal pain, failure to defecate, and mild abdominal distention. Rectal examination revealed the leading edge of a small colon intussusception, and peritoneal fluid analysis indicated suppurative peritonitis. Surgical management, including reduction of the intussusception and small colon resection with end-to-end anastomosis, resulted in successful outcome (1-year follow-up evaluation). Postoperative complications including dehiscence of the ventral midline surgical incision and simple obstruction at the anastomosis site necessitated a second surgical procedure. Small colon intussusception is an uncommon cause of signs of abdominal pain and is similar to type-IV rectal prolapse.     

Surgical management of a cat with hepatic arterioportal fistula

A 9‐month‐old domestic short‐haired cat presented with stunted growth and chronic gastrointestinal signs. Tachypnoea, a heart murmur and cranial abdominal bruit were detected on physical examination. Echocardiography revealed volume overload in all heart chambers. CT angiography identified an abnormal communication between the hepatic arterial circulation and the portal vein, along with multiple acquired shunts. The abnormal vascular communication was surgically ligated. Echocardiography documented improvement in cardiac parameters following surgery and the cat continues to have no clinical signs 39 months after surgery. This report describes successful surgical management of feline hepatic arterioportal fistula for the first time.     

Lameness caused by plate‐like osteoma cutis in a Thoroughbred colt

This report describes a case of osteoma cutis diagnosed by physical examination, surgery and histopathological examination. A 2‐year‐old Thoroughbred colt with hindlimb lameness was brought to our facility. Physical examination showed a well‐circumscribed, large plate‐like mass covered with normal haired skin in the right thigh region. Ultrasonography revealed a subcutaneous linear mass. After surgical removal, histopathological examination showed thin mature bone surrounded by fibrocollagenous tissues. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of spontaneous idiopathic osteoma cutis in horses.     

Perirenal expanding haematoma in a cat

A four-year-old, entire male domestic cat was referred for assessment of a large abdominal mass of three-weeks duration. Diagnostic imaging suggested the presence of either splenic neoplasia, an abdominal abscess or haematoma. A coeliotomy was performed and an enlarged, irregular mass, including the left kidney and adrenal gland, was identified. The mass was removed, requiring a left adrenalo-uretero-nephrectomy. The aorta was accidentally punctured during the procedure, resulting in paraplegia. Given a poor prognosis, the owners decided to have the cat euthanased. Histological examination of the mass was characteristic of a chronic expanding haematoma.     

Unilateral periorchitis with a secondary peritonitis in a Standardbred stallion

A 6‐year‐old Standardbred stallion presented for evaluation of progressive diffuse scrotal swelling of 5 days' duration. Physical examination was within normal limits apart from pitting ventral oedema and severely enlarged fluid filled scrotum. Rectal examination did not reveal any abnormalities in the palpable intestinal tract, spleen, kidneys or internal inguinal rings. Testicular ultrasound examination showed evidence of abnormal right testicular parenchyma that was displaced proximally by a heteroechoic region of possible abscessation. The left testis was surrounded by a large amount of hypoechoic fluid. Abdominocentesis was performed and was indicative of peritonitis. Broad‐spectrum antimicrobials and analgesics were administered preoperatively and a bilateral open orchidectomy with closure of the external inguinal ring in addition to scrotal ablation was performed. Post operative peritoneal lavage was performed once a day for 3 days. There were no complications associated with recovery or within the immediate post operative period. The horse was released to the care of his owners 5 days following surgery and has returned to his previous racing performance level.     

Musculoskeletal injuries in Standardbred racehorses on Prince Edward Island

A study of musculoskeletal injuries in Standardbred racehorses on Prince Edward Island was conducted to determine the incidence and risk factors for injury. Monthly information was collected from 10 trainers and 153 Standardbred horses over a 12-month period. Seventeen new injuries were identified in pacers, representing a horse level incidence risk of 23% and an incidence rate of injury of 2.19 per horse-month at risk. Forty-one percent of the injuries occurred during a race, 53% during training and 6% during jogging. Fourteen horses had experienced a previous injury and 3 of these horses experienced a new injury during the study period. Potential risk factors for injury were the speed at which the horse was trained, previous injury, and the conformational fault of offset knees.     

Fibrosarcoma arising at the site of a retained surgical sponge in a cat

Abstract: An 8‐year‐old female spayed domestic shorthair cat had an abdominal mass palpated as an incidental finding on physical examination. Cytologic findings in ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspirates of the mass were most compatible with a sarcoma, with abundant mineralized material and mixed inflammation. The mass was removed surgically and on gross examination was white‐tan, firm, associated with the mesentery, and when transected contained a gauze sponge in its center. On histopathologic examination, an area of central necrosis with mineralization and numerous refractile fibers consistent with sponge material was surrounded by dense fibrous connective tissue (gossypiboma). Within the connective tissue was a population of highly pleomorphic spindle cells consistent with a fibrosarcoma. Immunohistochemically, most neoplastic cells stained strongly positive for vimentin and a low number of cells were positive for smooth muscle actin. The results were consistent with a fibrosarcoma arising at the site of a retained surgical sponge. At a follow‐up visit 2 months postoperatively, ultrasonographic and cytologic evidence of metastasis was found in the spleen and mesentery. To our knowledge, this is the first report of malignant transformation at the site of a retained surgical sponge in a cat and the first report of a fibrosarcoma arising within a gossypiboma in a domestic animal.     

Fixation of chronic suture exostosis in a mature horse

This case report describes the clinical findings, diagnosis and treatment of a 14‐year‐old Warmblood gelding with suture exostosis. The horse was referred to our clinic because of bilateral swelling in the region of the frontal and nasal bone junction and bilateral epiphora. Epiphora was the main concern for the owner and the reason for further investigation and treatment. Radiographic examination showed extensive bone proliferation on the dorsal frontal and nasal bones. Computed tomographic (CT) images further characterised the periosteal proliferation as new bone formation and localised it along the frontonasal and frontolacrimal suture lines. Computed tomographic images also showed pathological changes of both lacrimal ducts. A chronic fracture was suspected to be the cause of the periosteal proliferation, and surgical treatment using 2 small 2.4 Unilock plates was chosen to stabilise the suture between the frontal and nasal bones. The swelling decreased and the epiphora resolved by 6 months post operatively. A CT examination 2 years later showed complete healing.     

Pathology of lethal peripartum broad ligament haematoma in 31 Thoroughbred mares

Reasons for performing study: Broad ligament haemorrhage in peripartum mares is a life‐threatening disease and there are few reports on the aetiology and pathogenesis of broad ligament haematoma. Objectives: To obtain information regarding the sites for the early diagnosis and pathogenesis of broad ligament haematoma of mares. Methods: Thirty‐one mares that died of broad ligament haematoma peripartum were examined pathologically for bleeding sites. The arterial distribution of 5 young mares with several parities served as negative controls. Results: Age and/or multiparity were the predisposing factors for the disease. Arterial injuries were most commonly observed in the uterine artery (24 of 31 mares). Among these, the proximal uterine artery that lies within 15 cm of the bifurcation of the iliac artery was the most frequent site for rupture (18 mares). The lesions occurred preferentially at the bifurcations, lateral part of curvatures and abrupt flexures of the artery. The morphology of the injuries was classified into 3 types: ruptures with and without longitudinal fissures, and transections. Histologically, the arterial wall adjacent to the rupture showed atrophy of smooth muscle cells with fibrosis of the tunica media and disruption and/or calcification of the internal elastic lamina. Conclusions: Arterial injuries that led to broad ligament haematoma in peripartum mares occurred most frequently in the proximal uterine artery, and atrophy of smooth muscle cells with fibrosis of the arterial wall was as one of the predisposing factors in aged and multiparous mares. Potential relevance: Monitoring small aneurysms, mural tearing, medial fibrosis at the proximal uterine artery by transrectal echography could provide useful information for the early diagnosis and possible prevention of broad ligament haematoma of peripartum mares.