Dog Cadavers Research Articles

Feasibility of ultrasound-guided cervical intervertebral disc injection to aid in intraoperative site identification in dog cadavers.

To study the feasibility of ultrasound-guided intervertebral disc (IVD) injection of contrast medium and methylene blue to aid in intraoperative identification of cervical IVD spaces in dogs. This was a single-center experimental cadaver study using randomly chosen skeletally mature dog cadavers from January 2, 2023, to March 23, 2023. For each cadaver, 1 cervical IVD was randomly selected. The ventral cervical region was ultrasonographically examined, pushing the trachea leftwards. A 50/50 contrast medium (iohexol, 300 mgI/mL) and methylene blue mixture was injected under ultrasound guidance in the IVD and ventral soft tissues. The x-rays and CT scans were performed before and after injection. Each cadaver was dissected using a ventral slot procedure. The cadavers and IVD characteristics, the success rate in ultrasonographically identifying the correct IVD space, time to injection, most caudal IVD space feasibly injectable, and semiquantitative imaging and surgical scores were recorded. 20 canine cadavers were used. The IVD injections were successfully performed in the correct IVD space in all cadavers. The median time to injection was 3.95 minutes (Q1 to Q3, 3.22 to 5.88 minutes). The contrast medium was clearly visible on at least 1 radiographic projection in all but 1 case and on the CT in all cases. During surgical dissection, the dye was clearly visible in all but 1 case. The dogs' weight was significantly different between most caudal IVD spaces feasibly injectable. Ultrasonographical cervical IVD space identification and mixture injection are feasible and might help intraoperative cervical IVD space identification in dogs. This technique could be used presurgically in patients with cervical IVD diseases.

Cadaveric study of the ultrasound-guided inter-transversospinalis plane block in dogs for the cervical epaxial musculature region.

Blockage of the dorsal rami of the spinal nerves (DRSN) provides analgesia to the epaxial musculature area in dogs. However, techniques to block the DRSN at the cervical level in dogs haven't yet been investigated. This study aimed to study the anatomy of the cervical area, and to describe a new ultrasound (US)-guided inter-transversospinalis plane (ITP) block technique at the 5th cervical vertebrae (C5). Fourteen adult canine's cadavers were used in this blinded, cadaveric, experimental study. One cadaver for cryo-section, one for anatomical research and twelve to do an ITP injection using 0.3 mL/kg (HV) or 0.15 mL/kg (LV) of dye/contrast solution in each lateral at C5, followed by a computed tomography and anatomical dissection.The HV and LV groups stained a median (range) of 4.67 (3-6) and 3.67 (2-5) DRSN into the ITP, respectively (P<0.017). Stained DRSN in the splenius plane were found in nine (75%) HV and five (41.66%) LV injections, respectively. Spread in the epidural space was found in two dogs using LV. One of them was injected into the ITP (4.33 %) while the other one was done accidentally outside of this plane. The paravertebral spread was found in one injection of each group. There was no dye of the ventral rami of the spinal nerves. The US-guided ITP injection is feasible in dog cadavers. The LV injected just after the medial surface of the semispinalis capitis muscle is recommended to avoid a possible extensive epidural spread.

Identification of spread after deliberate intraneural injection in five mammalian species

IntroductionThis research endeavors to investigate the phenomenon of intraneural spread across distinct locations: subcircumneurium, extrafascicular intraneural, intrafascicular intraneural, and intraperineurium after deliberate intraneural injections across five mammalian species. The study...

A lateral approach allows accurate and stable total elbow replacement in dogs.

Evaluate whether total elbow replacement (TER) through a lateral approach is accurate and stable. 12 skeletally mature large-breed dog cadavers were used. Limb alignment, elbow joint motion, and collateral ligament laxity were evaluated preoperatively. The order of surgery (left or right) and the approach (lateral or medial) were randomly selected for TER in each dog. The other approach was used in the contralateral elbow. Intraoperative technical difficulties, duration of surgery, and anatomic complications were recorded. Limb alignment, elbow joint motion, collateral ligament laxity, and prosthetic component alignment were evaluated after surgery. Data were collected from June 11 to 15, 2023. The duration of surgery using a lateral or medial approach did not differ (P = .499). Anatomic complications were not observed. The lateral approach resulted in 8° more elbow extension (P = .003), 1.58° less lateral collateral ligament constraint (P = .033), 2.80° less medial collateral ligament constraint (P = .002), 4.38° less frontal plane constraint (P = .004), 8° greater humeral component inclination (P = .033), and 5.6° greater radioulnar component varus (P = .001) than the medial approach. Varus of the radius, mechanical axis deviation, limb supination, elbow flexion, mediolateral humeral component and craniocaudal radioulnar component orientation did not differ among joints operated using a lateral or medial approach. In normal cadaveric elbows, a lateral approach for TER appears feasible, producing equivalent limb alignment, joint laxity, and joint motion to normal elbows and to TER placed using a medial approach. In dogs, TER can be performed using a lateral surgical approach.

A preliminary study of tracheal morphology in mixed-breed dog cadavers: Anatomical variation of tracheal cartilaginous rings

A preliminary study of tracheal morphology in mixed-breed dog cadavers: Anatomical variation of tracheal cartilaginous rings

Estimation of urinary volume through ultrasonography in dog cadavers and experimental models.

The urinary volume and residual urine volume are pieces of information that can provide relevant clinical data for dogs and cats, especially those hospitalized. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate mathematical formulas described in human and veterinary literature to estimate urinary volume in dogs and experimental models. For this purpose, nine male dog cadavers and twelve experimental models were used to evaluate residual volume, small, medium, and large, using three different formulas. Data were obtained by three different examiners: two ultrasonographers and one nonultrasonographer. Each examiner recorded three longitudinal and transverse images, obtaining measurements of width, length, and height at each proposed volume. The measurements were then averaged, and the result was added to the formulas, thus estimating urinary volume. All three formulas achieved higher accuracy in estimating smaller volumes, with a gradual decrease as urinary volume increased. The error of all formulas was less than 10%, even when compared with evaluations in experimental models and dogs. There was variation in estimation between ultrasonographers and nonultrasonographer examiners; however, this variation was low, allowing for the assertion that both can apply the technique. Thus, it is concluded that estimating urinary bladder volume using mathematical formulas and 2D ultrasound is accurate and, therefore, an alternative and viable option for evaluating the urinary tract.

Transcutaneous Transmission of Light of Photobiomodulation Therapy Wavelengths at 808 nm, 915 nm, 975 nm, and 1064 nm to the Spinal Canal of Cadaver Dogs

This study compared the transcutaneous target level irradiances from the thoracic to lumbar segments of the interior spinal canal in three cadaver dogs, measured for light at four wavelengths (808 nm, 915 nm, 975 nm, and 1064 nm), common in photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT). Intra-spinal irradiances at nine sites spanning approximately 8 cm in length were measured using a flexible intra-spinal probe under surface application of continuous-wave (CW) light with powers ranging from 0.5 W to 2 W. Surface illumination was applied using an acupuncture treatment head in three modes: non-contact with skin removed, non-contact with skin intact, and contact with skin intact. During surface application, the treatment head was positioned over the spinal canal near the 13th vertebrae (T13, surface site 1), and approximately 4 cm (surface site 5) and 8 cm (surface site 9) caudal to T13. At each position of the treatment head, the light was multiplexed among the four wavelengths at the same power setting. In all three modes of surface application, the target level irradiance at the 1064 nm wavelength was significantly greater than that at the other three wavelengths (p ≤ 0.0017). At a surface irradiance of ~157 mW/cm2, corresponding to 0.5 W light applied with the treatment head directly in contact with the skin, the intra-spinal irradiance at 1064 nm reached 0.137 ± 0.095 mW/cm2. Obtaining a dosage of PBMT-associative wavelengths of this magnitude at the level of the spinal canal may guide focused research into the transcutaneous applicability of PBMT for spinal cord injuries.

An Accessible Nephrectomy and Cystotomy Simulator for Use in Teaching Small Animal Surgery.

The use of simulators in veterinary education has been increasing over the last few years. This is fundamental for surgical classes, as simulators can provide a better learning environment for the students. Two procedures commonly taught in veterinary surgical practical classes are nephrectomy and cystotomy. However, the lack of simulators for use in these classes limits the training options to the use of cadavers, which have a number of associated disadvantages, including the potential for autolysis. The aim of this study was to develop and assess the value of a simple nephrectomy and cystotomy simulator that could replace the use of cadavers in surgical practical classes. The simulator, which represented the abdominal cavity, bladder, kidneys, ureter, vessels and adipose tissue, was constructed by using synthetic materials. To evaluate its usefulness and acceptance by the students, the learning outcomes and student satisfaction, for both the simulator and an ethically sourced dog cadaver, were compared. The students completed a Likert scale questionnaire, and the answers were evaluated by using the Diagnostic Content Validation (DCV) model. The simulator was well accepted by the students, with the best scores achieved for the ureter divulsion and ligation procedures; good results were also recorded for the kidney vessel ligature and urinary bladder suture practice. The scores showed that the simulator provided an acceptable experience during the training process and increased the confidence of the students in performing the procedure.

Assessing the Effectiveness of Modified Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy Plates for Treating Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture and Medial Patellar Luxation in Small-Breed Dogs.

In small-breed dogs with concurrent cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR) and medial patellar luxation (MPL), correcting both disorders is are essential for restoring normal gait. However, the previously described surgical treatment, using two osteotomy technique, poses a high risk of fracture and instability. Addressing CCLR and MPL with a single osteotomy and implant was considered superior to the conventional method. Therefore, a pre-contoured modified tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (PCM-TPLO) plate facilitating medial shifting of the proximal tibia was developed. We compared postoperative alignment and strength between this novel plate group and a conventional tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) plate group using eight small-breed dog cadavers each. Additionally, we investigated the potential of the novel plate as an alternative to tibial tuberosity transposition. Postoperative alignment and strength were assessed through radiographs and mechanical testing. Measurements including tibial plateau angle, mechanical medial proximal tibial angle, and number of screws within the joint were also analyzed. There were no significant differences in all measured parameters. For the novel plate, the medial displacement ratio of the proximal tibia was confirmed to be approximately 30%, and the result was thought to be appropriate. These findings suggest that the PCM-TPLO plate could be a promising alternative for treating concurrent CCLR and MPL in small-breed dogs.

Ex vivo biomechanical investigations of combined extra- and intracapsular stabilization in canines with cranial cruciate ligament deficiency.

Intracapsular reconstruction (ICR) has long been recommended as a treatment for cranial cruciate ligament deficiency (CCLD) in dogs, but it has fallen out of favor due to its inferior long-term functional outcomes. These outcomes may be attributed to the poor stiffness and strength of the graft in the early period before ligamentization is completed. Additional placement of extracapsular sutures to mechanically protect the graft during the ligamentization process may be a viable method to address this problem. However, the biomechanical effect of this combined surgical approach remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the 3D kinematics of the CCLD stifle in dogs in response to ICR and combined extra- and intracapsular reconstruction (CEICR). Twelve hindlimbs were collected from nine cadavers of mature dogs. The limbs were tested using a custom-made testing apparatus that reproduces their sagittal plane kinematics during the stance phase. Four statuses of stifle joints were tested, namely, (a) cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) intact; (b) CCLD; (c) CCLD stifle stabilized by CEICR; and (d) CCLD stifle stabilized by ICR only. Three-dimensional stifle kinematics at the 5 instances of the stance phase were measured with an optoelectronic system. The results showed that ICR marginally corrects the increased adduction, internal rotation, and caudodistal stifle joint center displacement that occur as a result of CCLD. CEICR led to better restoration of the stifle kinematics, especially with respect to the internal rotation and cranial translation stabilities. Furthermore, CEICR only resulted in minor excessive restraints on other motion components. The findings indicated that the additional lateral fabellotibial suture offers immediate stability to the stifle, consequently lowering the risk of graft over-elongation in the short term postoperatively. Considering the propensity for the extracapsular suture to degrade over time, further in vivo studies are warranted to explore the long-term effects of the CEICR procedure.

Photobiomodulation therapy using a class 3b laser does not cause premature rupture of multivesicular liposomal bupivacaine suspensions in a cadaver model.

To determine if photobiomodulation causes a premature release of liposomal bupivacaine (LB) suspensions. A 25-kg mixed breed dog cadaver euthanized for reasons unrelated to this study. In September 2022, a proximomedial tibial incision was made in a dog cadaver, and a tibial plateau leveling osteotomy plate was implanted. A stab incision was made one-half inch distal to the incision, and a tunnel to the plate was created prior to closure of the primary wound. A 3-cc anal sac catheter was advanced through the distal incision until the bulb rested against the face of the plate. Seven treatment groups of treatment power (watts) and total energy (joules/cm2) were defined as: A, 0.5 W, 2.0 J/cm2; B, 0.5 W, 4.0 J/cm2; C, 0.5 W, 6.0 J/cm2; D, 1.0 W, 2.0 J/cm2; E, 1.0 W, 4.0 J/cm2; F, 1.0 W, 6.0 J/cm2; and sham, 0.0 W, 0.0 J/cm2. Ten samples per group of 2 mL of LB were infused into a new catheter and treated percutaneously with a class 3b laser. All samples remained in the catheter for 12 seconds to reflect the longest treatment time. Post-treatment free bupivacaine concentrations were identified with high-performance liquid chromatography. The median free bupivacaine concentration was reported as: sham, 1.89 mg/mL; A, 1.93 mg/mL; B, 2.01 mg/mL; C, 2.05 mg/mL; D, 1.92 mg/mL; E, 2.03 mg/mL; and F, 2.00 mg/mL. There were no differences in median free bupivacaine concentrations between groups (P = .988). Concurrent LB and photobiomodulation are recommended during the postoperative period. The results of this proof-of-concept study suggest that concurrent use of LB and photobiomodulation may be safe, but in vivo studies at similar and stronger photobiomodulation settings are warranted.

Pathological alterations and COHb evaluations as tools for investigating fire-related deaths in veterinary forensic pathology.

Fire-related deaths are usually a consequence of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning or shock from thermal injuries. In humans, high levels of carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) concentrations in the blood can support a diagnosis of CO poisoning. In veterinary medicine, few studies investigated the pathological changes and blood COHb% in fire victims, and no data are available on post-mortem changes in blood gas composition due to fire. This study aims to investigate the pathological changes and COHb levels in both animal victims of fire and cadavers experimentally exposed to fire. For this purpose, dogs were selected and subdivided into three groups. Group A comprised 9 adult dogs, and Group B comprised 7 puppies that died under fire-related conditions. Group C was represented by 4 dog cadavers experimentally exposed to heat and smoke. A complete macroscopic, histological, and COHb evaluation were performed on each animal. Animals in Groups A and B showed cherry-red discoloration, thermal-injuries and soot deposits along the respiratory tract. Animals in Group C showed thermal injuries and soot deposits limited to the upper respiratory tract. The mean COHb% values in cadavers in Group C were lower than those observed in the other groups but higher compared to the values detected before the heat and smoke treatment. These findings suggest that both pathological changes and COHb analysis are valid tools for investigating fire-related deaths in dogs. However, the increase of COHb levels in cadavers exposed post-mortem to heat and smoke highlights how the COHb analysis should always be evaluated together with macroscopical and microscopical findings to avoid significant misjudgments in investigating fire-related fatalities in veterinary forensic practice.

An unusual relationship between the axillary artery and brachial plexus in a cross-breed dog cadaver: a proposal for revising the terminology for nerve loops

In the left axilla of a formalin-embalmed adult female cross-breed dog, an unusual course of the axillary artery in relation to the brachial plexus was noted. A part of the axillary artery after the origin of the subscapular artery coursed through the loop formed by the contributions of the caudal pectoral and lateral thoracic nerves and then between the median and ulnar nerves. Thus, the common trunk for the latter two nerves was missing. Instead, in the proximal brachium, they communicated with each other in both directions. A communicating branch between the cranial and caudal pectoral nerves forming a nerve loop, ansa pectoralis lacked the axillary artery and was instead traversed by the subscapular artery. This is a variation in the relationship between the axillary artery and brachial plexus in the domestic dog and has not been reported in the literature yet. The axillary artery entrapped by the contributions of the caudal and lateral thoracic nerves may be considered as a risk factor for the neuroarterial compressions with non-specific signs and should be taken into account both in surgery and imaging.

Evaluation of mediastinoscopy for cranial mediastinal and tracheobronchial lymphadenectomy in canine cadavers.

To report technical feasibility and describe procedural details of a novel single incision minimally invasive approach to the mediastinum in cadaver dogs. Cadaveric study. Large breed (25-40 kg) cadaver dogs (n = 10). Three of 10 cadavers were used for preliminary technique development without data recording. Cadaver specimens underwent pre- and postoperative thoracic computed tomographic scans. Seven dogs were placed in dorsal recumbency and mediastinoscopy was performed via a SILS port placed cranial to the thoracic inlet with CO2 insufflation of the mediastinum at 2-4 mmHg. Retrieval of all CT and visually identified mediastinal lymph nodes (LN) was attempted; endoscopic compartmental and individual LN dissection times and subjective operative challenges were recorded. Procedural success scores for visualization and dissection as well as NASA-task force index scores were recorded per lymph node, per cadaver. Median time required for initial approach including SILS placement was 5 min (range 5-10 min). Individual LN retrieval times ranged from 2 to 32 min. Mediastinoscopic retrieval of LNs was most commonly successful for the left tracheobronchial LN (7/7), followed by the right tracheobronchial LN (4/7), the left and right sternal LNs (3/7 each), and the cranial mediastinal LNs (1/7). Post-procedure pleural gas was identified on CT in 4/7 cadavers. Mediastinoscopy as reported was feasible in large breed canine cadavers and retrieval or cup biopsy of a variety of lymph nodes is possible from the described approach. Application in living animals and its associated challenges should be further investigated. Mediastinoscopy may provide a novel minimally invasive approach to the evaluation and oncologic staging of the cranial mediastinum in dogs.

Evaluation of two liver biopsy and rectal sealing techniques in dog cadavers undergoing Natural Orifices Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) by transrectal access

The aim of this study was to evaluate two liver biopsy techniques by transrectal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) and compare tensiometric parameters of rectal sealing using 2-octyl cyanoacrylate glue or conventional rectal sutures in a dog cadaver model. In sixteen dog cadavers two liver biopsy techniques were performed via transrectal NOTES using either polypectomy diathermy forceps or endoscopic oval biopsy forceps. The cadavers were divided into two groups: Glue Group (GG) where rectal sealing was performed with 2-octyl cyanoacrylate glue and Suture Group (SG) with the rectal defect sealed with simple continuous extracorporeal 3-0 polydioxanone sutures. The rupture pressure of the seals was measured on a rectal burst test. The diathermy polypectomy endoscopic forceps biopsy technique was significantly faster (p&lt;0.001) and provided larger diameter samples. Rectal sealing was significantly faster (p&lt;0.001) in the GG. There was no difference between the two groups with regard to rupture pressure (258.5 mmHg) with air insufflation. Using endoscopic oval biopsy forceps, biopsy samples can only be collected from the surface of the liver, whereas polypectomy forceps with a diathermy loop can be used to collect samples from the tip of the hepatic lobe. There was no difference in rectal rupture pressure in the burst test between the cadavers where sealing was performed with rectal sutures and those where cyanoacrylate adhesive was used.

Comparison of exposure of the radius afforded by the craniomedial and craniolateral open surgical approaches in dog cadavers.

Management of antebrachial fractures in dogs typically involves open reduction and bone plate stabilisation of the radius performed using either a craniomedial approach (CMA) or craniolateral approach (CLA). The aim of this cadaveric study was to compare radial exposure afforded via the craniomedial and craniolateral approaches, without and with releasing the abductor digiti I longus (ADIL) muscle. The CMA and CLA were performed on alternate paired cadaver forelimbs with the subsequent release (CMA) or elevation (CLA) of the ADIL muscle (n = 12). The percent area of exposure was calculated in defined longitudinal radial segments (LRSs) and hemi-circumferential radial segments (HRSs) using digitally uploaded images. A non-parametric rank sum test was used for statistical analysis (p < 0.05). While both the CMA and CLA provided sufficient exposure for radial cranial plate placement in the mid-to-distal diaphyseal region (50-80% LRSs), the CMA afforded greater exposure to the distal metaphysis (80-90% LRS). The CLA was advantageous in exposing the proximal diaphysis (20-50% LRSs) and distal epiphysis (90-100% LRS). Exposure of the distal diaphyseal, metaphyseal, and epiphyseal regions (80-100% LRSs) was impeded by the ADIL muscle. A tenotomy of the tendon of insertion of the ADIL muscle increased exposure afforded by the CMA in the distal metaphyseal and epiphyseal regions. The exposure afforded by the CLA in the distal diaphyseal and metaphyseal regions was significantly improved by elevating the origin of the ADIL muscle. The results of this study provide useful clinical information when surgeons are deciding which approach to use for cranial radial plating.

Tympanic membrane perforations cannot be reliably detected using computed tomography based on 15 cadaver dogs.

The integrity of the tympanic membrane is an important factor when deciding treatment and therapeutic recommendations for dogs with ear disease; however, otoscopic examination may be difficult to perform due to features of external ear canal disease or patient compliance. CT is useful for the evaluation of middle ear disease, including cases in which middle ear disease is detected incidentally. The tympanic membrane is detectable using CT, but anecdotally, apparent focal defects or discontinuities of the tympanic membrane are often seen in patients with and without ear disease. The purpose of this prospective, observer agreement study was to determine if perforations of the tympanic membrane are reliably detectable on CT. Fifteen cadaver dogs underwent CT and video otoscopy to verify the integrity of each tympanic membrane. Cadavers were randomly assigned to have the tympanic membranes left intact or to undergo a myringotomy on either the left, the right, or both sides. CT was performed immediately following the myringotomies. Four blinded evaluators evaluated the pre- and post-myringotomy scans for a total of 30 scans (60 tympanic membranes). Average accuracy was low (44%), and interobserver agreement for all four evaluators was fair. Although the tympanic membrane is visible on CT, perforations of the tympanic membrane are unlikely to be accurately detected or excluded. The appearance of an intact tympanic membrane or defect in the membrane on CT should not be used as criteria to guide clinical treatment recommendations based on this cadaver model.

Use of thermal drone in detection and assessment of larval mass temperature in decomposed rabbit carcasses.

Manual ground searches and cadaver dogs are traditional methods for locating remains, but they can be time- and resource-intensive, resulting in the decomposition of bodies and delay in victim identification. Therefore, thermal imaging has been proposed as a potentially useful tool for detecting remains based on their temperature. This study investigated the potential of a novel search technique of thermal drones to detect surface remains through the detection of maggot mass temperatures. Two trials were carried out at Selangor, Malaysia, each utilizing 12 healthy male Oryctolagus cuniculus European white rabbits and DJI Matrice 300 RTK drone China, equipped with a thermal camera; Zenmuse H20T to record the thermal imaging footage of the carcasses at various heights (15, 30, 60-100 m) for 14 days for each trial. Our results demonstrated that the larval masses and corresponding heat emissions were at their largest during the active decay stage; therefore, all the carcasses were observable in thermal images on day 5 and remained until day 7. Statistical analyses showed that (1) no statistically significant differences in thermal images between clothed and unclothed subjects (p > 0.05); (2) 15 m above ground level was proven to be the optimal height, as it showed the greatest contrast between the carcass heat signature and the background (p < 0.005). Our data suggested the potential window of detection of thermal signatures was detectable up to 7 days post-deposition. This could be an important guideline for the search and recovery teams for operational implementation in this tropical region.

AN ANATOMICAL STUDY OF THE THORACIC LIMB OF THE GIANT ANTEATER (MYRMECOPHAGA TRIDACTYLA) COMPARED WITH THE DOMESTIC DOG TO GUIDE SURGICAL APPROACHES TO THE HUMERUS AND RADIUS.

The giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) is a neotropical mammal considered to be vulnerable to extinction. Recent increased interest in veterinary care in the giant anteater has prompted renewed interest in anatomical descriptions in this species. The terrestrial habits and slow movements of the giant anteater contribute to its susceptibility to vehicular trauma on highways, which is a significant cause of mortality in the species. This study describes the muscular anatomy of the thoracic limb and variations of the long bones with emphasis on the structures surrounding the humerus and radius. It also describes the possible surgical approaches for the management of fractures of humerus and radius, comparing these with the surgical approaches described in dogs (Canis lupus familiaris). Three giant anteater and three domestic dog cadavers, from deaths not related to this project, were used. The medial approach to the humeral diaphysis of the giant anteater resulted in the least tissue trauma, and provided access to the flattest surface for implant attachment. The lateral approach to the radius proved challenging, requiring total detachment of the extensor carpi radialis muscle and incision of the very robust abductor digitorum longus muscle to access the distal diaphysis. Although the giant anteater shares many similarities of the thoracic limb anatomy with the domestic dog, important differences exist. This comparative knowledge will allow veterinary practitioners to directly apply the principles of fracture repair in these species. Safe access to these bones for possible osteosynthesis is essential to allow implant placement and minimize postoperative complications in this species.

Um novo modelo visando ao ensino e pesquisa da radiologia torácica em cadáveres de cães quimicamente preparados

ABSTRACT: Nowadays, alternative methods that do not use formaldehyde to preserve cadavers must be used due to this substance’s toxicity. Synthetic models are a training option for teaching, but cost makes their use unviable in most underdeveloped countries. The present study’s main objective was to develop a model for education and researching thorax radiology in cadavers of chemically prepared dogs. Megaesophagus, pleural effusion, pneumothorax, and bronchography, as well as pulmonary insufflation, were simulated in 32 dogs cadavers, which received 150 mL/kg of pure ethyl alcohol solution with 5% glycerin followed by injection of 120 mL/kg of a solution containing 20% sodium chloride, 1% sodium nitrite and 1% sodium nitrate; they were kept refrigerated between 2 to 6 °C, for 30, 60, 90 or 120 days (G30, G60, G90, G120). There was no contamination, putrid odor, or subcutaneous emphysema. The pulmonary insufflation was kept, and the color and the consistency were similar to a fresh corpse after 120 days of conservation. It was possible to perform radiographic procedures, and almost all affections could be greatly mimicked. Megaesophagus and bronchography were easily simulated. Pneumothorax was the most challenging condition to be reproduced, especially in cadavers with some liquid in the thorax. The alcoholic and curing salt solutions are an embalming alternative with low financial and environmental costs and proved to preserve corpses.