Long Head Research Articles

Investigation of ocular surface parameters in dogs with different cephalic conformations using veterinary ocular surface analyzer (OSA-VET).

To compare ocular surface parameters in dogs with different cephalic conformations and evaluate correlations among tests. Sixty-eight privately owned dogs. The study categorized canine eyes into three groups based on the craniofacial ratio (CFR): brachycephaly (≤0.52), mesocephaly (>0.52 to <0.67), and dolichocephaly (≥0.67). All eyes were examined using an ocular surface analyzer (OSA-VET) to determine lipid layer thickness (LLT) of the tear film, tear meniscus height (TMH), non-invasive tear breakup time (NIBUT), and meibomian gland loss rate of the lower eyelids (MGLRL). Schirmer tear test 1 (STT-1) and tear film breakup time (TBUT) were also performed. Statistical analyses involved one-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis H test, post hoc Holm-Sidak test, and Pearson correlation coefficient. While STT-1 showed no significant difference among dog groups, brachycephalic dogs had significantly lower values in TBUT, NIBUT, and LLT, and a higher TMH, compared to mesocephalic and dolichocephalic dogs. Additionally, brachycephalic dogs exhibited a significantly higher MGLRL than dolichocephalic dogs. Correlations among tests were generally weak to moderate (r < .6) except for a strong correlation between CFR and LLT (r = .641, p < .001), and between TBUT and NIBUT (r = .899, p < .001). Brachycephalic morphology predisposes dogs to a significantly thinner lipid layer and diminished tear film stability, likely due to factors such as impaired meibomian gland function and increased ocular exposure compared to other cephalic conformations, thereby increasing their risk of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). OSA-VET shows a valuable tool to provide more comprehensive and precise diagnosis for canine ocular surface disorders.

Canine corneal endothelial cell analysis using vital dyes and light microscopy.

To evaluate the use of vital dyes and light microscopy for assessing canine corneal endothelial morphology exvivo. The corneas of 40 canine eyes (n = 20 dogs) enucleated <24 h following euthanasia or death were isolated and flat-mounted on a slide. Corneal endothelium was stained via 0.25% trypan blue followed by 0.5% alizarin red (pH 4.2), photographed, then the following morphological features were calculated using ImageJ: mean cell density (MCD), mean cell area (MCA), polymegathism (coefficient of variation of cell area), and pleomorphism (% hexagonality). Mean ± standard deviation (range) outcomes were: MCD, 2544 ± 541 cells/mm2 (1750-3922 cells/mm2); MCA, 431 ± 97 μm2 (251-626 μm2); polymegathism, 17 ± 2% (14%-22%); pleomorphism, 84 ± 3% (80%-90%). No significant differences (p ≥ .122) were noted for any outcome between male versus female or brachycephalic versus non-brachycephalic dogs. Young dogs (<10 years) had lower MCA (p = .044), lower pleomorphism (p = .003), and higher MCD (p = .035) when compared to older dogs (≥10 years). Age was significantly (p ≤ .049) correlated with MCA (r = 0.467), MCD (r = -0.476), polymegathism (r = 0.444), and pleomorphism (r = 0.609). The combination of vital dyes and light microscopy allowed for clear visualization and evaluation of the corneal endothelium in canine eyes exvivo. Our findings can be used in future studies to deepen our understanding of the corneal endothelium in health and disease.

Histomorphological evaluation of thermal injury following palatoplasty performed with CO2 laser or LigaSure device in dogs with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome

The elongated soft palate is an abnormality that characterizes most brachycephalic dogs and contributes to the brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Palatoplasty is routinely performed in brachycephalic dogs; several surgical techniques exist. The use of surgical instruments such as monopolar electrocoagulation, CO2 or diode laser, bipolar vessel sealing device and harmonic shears has become routine to reduce the operating time, the intraoperative risk of bleeding and the postoperative oedema. This prospective study aimed to compare the histomorphological effect of a CO2 laser and LigaSure device in palates of dogs undergoing palatoplasty. Twenty owned brachycephalic dogs were included, 10 palatoplasties were performed using CO2 laser and 10 using LigaSure™ device. The dogs were positioned in sternal recumbency. A transoral approach was performed: the elongated soft palate was grasped with Allis forceps and brought rostrally, the palatoplasty was performed using the tonsillar crypts as anatomical landmarks. Surgical specimens were routinely fixed in 10 % formalin. Two sections perpendicular to the surgical margins were trimmed from each sample, paraffin-embedded and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E). Tissue damage induced by the two types of surgical devices was graded (1–4, from minimal to severe) and the depth of thermal injury measured in μm on captured images (using an image analysis program - ImageJ). Mean values and standard deviations (SD) were calculated based on six measurements for each sample.The tissue damage was graded 3.7±0.48 in group LigaSure™ and 2.8±1 in group Laser. The mean depth of thermal injury was 874.94±184.92 μm in the LigaSure™ group and 451,76±137,86 μm in the Laser group. The comparison between the two groups showed significant lower grade and extension of thermal injury in the palate samples obtained with CO2 laser (p<0.05).Additionally, there is a lack of literature that correlates the histological changes with the clinical outcomes of the different palatoplasty methods in brachycephalic dogs. By comparing histological changes and clinical outcomes, we aim to provide valuable insights for optimizing the surgical approach for palatoplasty in brachycephalic dogs, ultimately improving postoperative outcomes for these patients.

Addition of a metoclopramide constant rate infusion to prevent ptyalism, regurgitation and vomiting in brachycephalic dogs undergoing spinal surgery

ObjectiveTo assess whether adding metoclopramide to a protocol of maropitant and pantoprazole would reduce incidence of ptyalism, vomiting and regurgitation in brachycephalic dogs undergoing thoracolumbar spinal surgery. Study designRandomized blinded controlled trial. AnimalsA total of 43 brachycephalic dogs undergoing thoracolumbar spinal surgery. MethodsIn addition to a standardized anaesthetic regimen, dogs were randomized to be administered either a 2 mg kg–1 day–1 metoclopramide constant rate infusion (CRI) or a saline solution at an equivalent infusion rate, started after anaesthetic induction and discontinued 5 hours after tracheal extubation. The presence of vomiting, regurgitation and pytalism, and short form of the Glasgow Composite Pain Scale pain scores were assessed by a blinded observer hourly for 4 hours, starting 1 hour postextubation. ResultsRegurgitation occurred in six dogs postoperatively; three dogs were in the placebo group and three in the metoclopramide group. The odds ratio (OR) of regurgitation after surgery did not differ between groups [OR: 0.76, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.13–4.3, p = 0.76]. The odds of observing ptyalism at 3 and 4 hours was approximately 15 times less than 1 hour postoperatively (both OR: 15.4, 95% CI: 1.8–130.7, p = 0.012) and did not differ based on the addition of metoclopramide (OR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.07–8.0, p = 0.79). The odds of observing pain did not change over time and did not differ based on the addition of metoclopramide (OR: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.12–4.2, p = 0.71). Vomiting did not occur during the study (0.0%, 95% CI: 0.0–8.2%). No adverse effects were observed during the study period in either group. Conclusions and clinical relevanceThe addition of a metoclopramide CRI to maropitant and pantoprazole did not result in a significant reduction in ptyalism or regurgitation in brachycephalic dogs undergoing thoracolumbar spinal surgery.

Establishment of Cephalic Index by Computed Tomography in Sampled Chinese Children.

Cephalic Index (CI), the ratio of head width to length, is one of the indexes reflecting cranial morphological characteristics. Current norms were established by European and American countries. The purpose of the study was to study anthropometry of cranial parameters using computed tomography scans to establish the CI of the sampled Chinese Children. The cross-sectional study was carried out on patients of age younger than 14 years old at Shanghai Children's Medical Center. The measurement of maximum cranial breadth and maximum cranial length were taken on a computed tomography scan machine and recorded for analysis. Cephalic Index was calculated for each age and sex group and compared with previously established norms. Five hundred eighteen patients met the inclusion criteria, including 301 males and 217 females. The means for boys and girls were 87.1 (SD: 4.3) and 85.8 (SD: 4.3), respectively. There was a significant difference between boys and girls (P < 0.01). Cephalic Index in different ages and on applying the 1-way analysis of variance association was statistically insignificant (P = 0.19). Chinese head shape was brachycephalic. A statistically significant correlation was seen between the CI and sex, while not age.

Genetic Factors Contributing to Respiratory Disorders in Brachycephalic Dog Breeds in Uganda

Purpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the genetic factors contributing to respiratory disorders in brachycephalic dog breeds. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Genetic factors are primary contributors to respiratory disorders in brachycephalic dog breeds, known for their flattened facial structure. Breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs exhibit narrowed nostrils, elongated soft palates, and other airway obstructions due to selective breeding for these distinctive traits. These anatomical abnormalities restrict airflow, leading to symptoms such as noisy breathing and exercise intolerance. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Genetic inheritance theory, evolutionary genetics theory &amp; genotype-environment interaction theory may be used to anchor future studies on genetic factors contributing to respiratory disorders in brachycephalic dog breeds. Implement breeding programs that prioritize genetic health over physical appearance. Establish and enforce regulatory standards for breeding brachycephalic dogs that include mandatory genetic testing for respiratory disorder markers.

Exploring Craniofacial Anthropometry in the Ethnic Adult Population of Meghalaya, Northeast India: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Craniofacial anthropometry is important for identity, diagnosis of congenital anomalies etc. The incidence of craniofacial abnormalities is high in the Southeast Asian region. The population of Meghalaya differs in features from other states of Northeast India and the neighbouring East Asia. The objective was to study the craniofacial anthropometric features of the ethnic adults in the Meghalaya state of Northeast India. This cross-sectional study was conducted from 2022 to 2023 in the ENT OPD. OPD patients of Meghalayan ethnicity were included in the study. Head length (HL), head breadth (HB), Cephalic index (CI), intercanthal distance (ICD), lateral canthal distance (LCD) and ear length (EL) were measured. A total of 104 adults were included. The majority of the individuals belonged to the Khasi community 51 (49%) followed by the Garo community 27 (26%) and the Jaintia community 26 (25%). The mean ± S.D age of the total sample population was 29.5 ± 8.4 years. The mean CI of the total sample population was 79.13 (mesocephalic). No statistically significant difference was noted between male-female CI in the total and subpopulation groups. In our study, the common head types were dolichocephalic (29%), brachycephalic (29%), mesocephalic (21%), hyperbrachycephalic (16%) and ultrabrachycephalic (5%). A statistically significant difference was noted between Khasi and Jaintia in HL, HW, CI, LCD; between Khasi and Garo in HL, ICD, LCD and between Garo and Jaintia in HW, CI, ICD. We believe our conventional craniofacial anthropometry data could add to the pool of regional anthropometry data and be used for future scientific purposes like anthropology, maxillofacial surgeries, designing helmets, forensic analysis, and gender differentiation.

Retrospective evaluation of radiofrequency volumetric tissue reduction for hypertrophic turbinates in dogs with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome.

The objective of this study was to retrospectively assess the effect of Radiofrequency Volumetric Tissue Reduction (RFVTR) on hypertrophic turbinates and clinical outcome in brachycephalic dogs when included in multi-level surgery (MLS). Clinical retrospective multicenter study. 132 client-owned brachycephalic dogs. 132 brachycephalic dogs with high-grade Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Ayndrome (BOAS) and hypertrophic turbinates were treated with RFVTR as part of MLS of the upper airways. Intranasal obstruction was evaluated by computer tomography (CT) and antero-/retrograde rhinoscopy before and 6 months after RFVTR. The clinical records, the CT images and the rhinoscopy videos were reviewed and clinical evolution was evaluated using a standardized questionnaire. The data was scored semi-quantitatively. In this study, 132 patients were included for a follow-up period of 120 weeks. RFVTR resulted in minor complications, including serous nasal discharge within the first postoperative week in all dogs, and intermittent nasal congestion between 3-8 weeks after treatment in 24.3% of the patients. Rhinoscopy and CT follow-ups were available for 33 patients. Six months after treatment intranasal airspace was increased (p = 0.002) and the presence and overall amount of mucosal contact points was reduced (p = 0.039). MLS with RFVTR led to a significant reduction in turbinate volume at the 6-month follow-up examination and significant clinical improvement over a long-term period of 120 weeks. This suggests the viability of RFVTR as a turbinate-preserving treatment for intranasal obstruction in dogs with BOAS. RFVTR is a minimally invasive turbinoplasty technique for intranasal obstruction in dogs with BOAS and can be included in MLS without increasing complication rates.

Preliminary study on intraocular abnormalities found in senior dogs by ultrasonography in a veterinary hospital in Guayaquil, Ecuador

Research on ophthalmology in veterinary medicine in Ecuador is scarce, and ocular health in older dogs should be studied. This study aimed to determine the incidence of ophthalmic abnormalities in senior dogs attending a hospital at Guayaquil and relate them to the type of lesion, breed, sex, age, and type of dog head shape. One hundred healthy senior dogs (&gt; six years old) who underwent consultation during the study were subjected to bilateral eye ultrasonography (USG 10-MHz transducer) and examined for ocular alterations. Breed, sex, age, and head shape were also recorded. Thirty-eight animals presented with ocular abnormalities: presumed cataracts (19%), crystalline luxation (6%), presumed senile retinal degeneration (6%), retinal detachment (4%), nuclear sclerosis (4%), masses and vitreous degeneration (3%), presumed glaucoma (2%), and cysts in the anterior and posterior chambers (1%), mainly as bilateral lesions (24%). Cataracts were present in a more significant proportion in dolichocephalic dogs (8/18) than in brachycephalic (3/22) and mesocephalic dogs (8/60) (p =0.01). In addition, older animals were more affected, both unilaterally and bilaterally, and in both locations (lens or retina)(p &lt;0.05), whereas crystalline luxation and senile retinal degeneration were significantly associated with age(p &lt;0.05), whereas trends were observed for cataracts (p =0.065). Although ultrasound alone does not allow a definitive diagnosis, these preliminary results provide insights into the ocular abnormalities in apparently healthy senior dogs from Guayaquil (Ecuador). Unsuspected intraocular lesions might be relatively high in these patients; however, more extensive studies with complete ocular examination are recommended to confirm these results. Keywords: Aging dog; Cataracts; Retinal lesion; Ultrasonography

Preliminary study on intraocular abnormalities found in senior dogs by ultrasonography in a veterinary hospital in Guayaquil, Ecuador

Research on ophthalmology in veterinary medicine in Ecuador is scarce, and ocular health in older dogs should be studied. This study aimed to determine the incidence of ophthalmic abnormalities in senior dogs attending a hospital at Guayaquil and relate them to the type of lesion, breed, sex, age, and type of dog head shape. One hundred healthy senior dogs (&gt; six years old) who underwent consultation during the study were subjected to bilateral eye ultrasonography (USG 10-MHz transducer) and examined for ocular alterations. Breed, sex, age, and head shape were also recorded. Thirty-eight animals presented with ocular abnormalities: presumed cataracts (19%), crystalline luxation (6%), presumed senile retinal degeneration (6%), retinal detachment (4%), nuclear sclerosis (4%), masses and vitreous degeneration (3%), presumed glaucoma (2%), and cysts in the anterior and posterior chambers (1%), mainly as bilateral lesions (24%). Cataracts were present in a more significant proportion in dolichocephalic dogs (8/18) than in brachycephalic (3/22) and mesocephalic dogs (8/60) (p =0.01). In addition, older animals were more affected, both unilaterally and bilaterally, and in both locations (lens or retina)(p &lt;0.05), whereas crystalline luxation and senile retinal degeneration were significantly associated with age(p &lt;0.05), whereas trends were observed for cataracts (p =0.065). Although ultrasound alone does not allow a definitive diagnosis, these preliminary results provide insights into the ocular abnormalities in apparently healthy senior dogs from Guayaquil (Ecuador). Unsuspected intraocular lesions might be relatively high in these patients; however, more extensive studies with complete ocular examination are recommended to confirm these results. Keywords: Aging dog; Cataracts; Retinal lesion; Ultrasonography

Surgical treatment of a zygomatic sialocele by ventral approach without ostectomy in an adult Shih Tzu

AbstractA 5‐year‐old male Shih Tzu was presented for right eye exophthalmia and periorbital swelling. Computed tomography and fine needle aspiration revealed a zygomatic sialocele. A ventral non‐ostectomy approach was performed to remove the zygomatic salivary gland and its duct. This new, minimally invasive approach allowed good visualisation and complete exteriorisation of the gland in this brachycephalic dog. No intra‐ or postoperative complications were noted. This clinical case confirmed the relevance of this approach in the treatment of zygomatic sialoceles in all types of dogs.

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome: a respiratory review

This article reviews the pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapeutic options for the respiratory aspects of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome is a condition estimated to affect around 50% of the brachycephalic dog population, which, over recent decades, has seen a meteoric rise in popularity and ownership. Several primary and secondary respiratory abnormalities that can compromise the respiratory capacity of these patients should be considered. Diagnosis primarily takes the form of clinical examination and the use of an exercise tolerance test, with other diagnostics acting as a useful adjunct in fully detailing the abnormalities present. Treatments are mainly focussed on increasing the amount of space within the upper respiratory tract through removal of various primary and secondary anatomical abnormalities; however, the optimal methods are yet to be identified. While understanding of these breeds' respiratory issues has increased among owners and the veterinary profession, there are still many challenges and unknowns in the management of these patients. It is important veterinary professionals take an active approach to these patients and are able to effectively communicate which are affected in order to maximise the welfare of this cohort and uphold their ethical responsibilities to them.

Comparative macroanatomical and scanning electron microscopy study of the eyeball in brachycephalic and mesocephalic dog breeds.

The anatomical structures forming the eyeball differ among dog breeds, both morphologically and morphometrically. This study was aimed at determining the morphometric values of the eyeball layers of different dog breeds and the morphological structures of these layers using scanning electron microscopy. Thirty-two eyeballs of 17 dogs belonging to 9 different breeds that died from traffic accidents, falling from a height, and naturally were used. These dog breeds were grouped according to their brachycephalic and mesocephalic skull structures, and morphometric measurements of the eyeballs of each group were obtained. Scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the morphological structure of the eyeball layers. The studied dogs' eyeballs comprised three layers: outer, middle, and inner. Thickness measurements obtained from three different regions of the eyeball indicated that the equatorial region was the thinnest among all dog breeds. Moreover, the cornea, which is covered by the sclera along its edges, was thicker at the corneal limbus than at the corneal vertex. A positive correlation was observed between lens thickness and the number of ciliary processes, which varied according to the dogs' head structures. Notably, depression was observed in the posterior surface of the lens in brachycephalic dogs. The morphometric values of the eyeball layers in the brachycephalic and mesocephalic dog breeds were also determined. These values will help researchers study this subject, and the determined morphometric and morphological values will contribute to the anatomy literature. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: This comprehensive study investigates the morphometric and morphological variations in the eyeball layers of different dog breeds, utilizing scanning electron microscopy to analyze eyeballs. It reveals significant breed-specific differences, particularly between brachycephalic and mesocephalic dogs, regarding eyeball layer thickness, corneal structure, lens thickness, and the number of ciliary processes.

The Pterygomandibular Space: A Volumetric Evaluation Using the Novel A-Silicone Injections Method.

Inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) is one of the most common procedures in operative dentistry, and a deep understanding of the normal anatomical variation of the pterygomandibular space (PM) is essential for its safe and successful administration. This cadaveric anatomical study aimed to use A-silicone injections to evaluate the volume of the PM. This study was conducted using 46 human cadaver heads (25 males and 21 females). A craniometric analysis was performed using the cadavers' ages, the number of silicone cartridges (carpules) used to fill the pterygomandibular space, Izard's Facial Index (FI), and the Cranial Index (CI). A Halstead mandibular block was performed by injecting 1.7 mL A-silicone cartridges (as an equivalent to standard local aesthetic carpules volume) into the PM. The cured silicone was extracted from the dissected mandibles. The volume (length, width, and thickness) of the extracted silicone and the number of silicone cartridges used to fill the space were evaluated. The results showed that there are statistically significant positive correlations between the CI and the width of the right PM, as well as the width and length of the left PM. A statistically significant correlation was found between the width of the left PM and the age of the cadaveric heads; the higher the age, the thicker the space on both sides. The volume of the PM corresponded to 1.5 cartridges on average.

Effect of continuous positive airway pressure helmet on respiratory function following surgical procedures in brachycephalic dogs: A randomized controlled trial.

To evaluate the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on respiratory function in the early postoperative period of brachycephalic dogs. Prospective, randomized clinical trial. A total of 32 dogs. Dogs were assigned to recover with or without CPAP (control) and assessed at specific time points over 1 h. Treatment was discontinued for dogs with a CPAP tolerance score of 3 or more (from a range of 0-4). The primary outcome was pulse oximetry (SpO2). Secondary outcomes were arterial O2 pressure (PaO2)/FiO2 ratio (PaO2/FiO2), arterial CO2 pressure (PaCO2), and rectal temperature. For dogs that reached a CPAP tolerance score of 3 or more, only the data collected up to the time point before discontinuation were included in the analysis.The treatment effect (β) was analyzed using random effects models and the results were reported with 95% confidence intervals. Dogs were assigned randomly to each protocol. Baseline characteristics in both groups were comparable. Arterial blood gases were obtained in seven control group dogs and nine CPAP group dogs. Treatment did not affect SpO2 (β = -0.1, -2.1 to 2.0) but affected the PaO2/FiO2 ratio (β = 58.1, 2.6 to 113.6), with no effects on PaCO2 (β = -4.3, -10.5 to 1.9) or temperature (β = 0.4, -0.8 to 1.6). In postoperative brachycephalic dogs, CPAP had no effect on SpO2 but improved the PaO2/FiO2 ratio in brachycephalic dogs postoperatively. Continuous positive airway pressure offers a valuable solution to improve gas exchange efficiency, a prevalent concern in postoperative brachycephalic dogs, with the potential to enhance overall outcomes.

A New Normal: A Pilot Examination of the Modern Cephalic Index

ABSTRACT Introduction The cephalic index (CI) is the width-to-length ratio of the head. Brachycephalic head shapes are wider than the norm and have a higher CI. In 1994, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended babies sleep on their backs to combat rates of sudden infant death syndrome, which correlated to a sudden increase in the incidence of brachycephaly in the American population. The commonly accepted “normal” CI comes from a table that was published in the 1970s and should be updated for the modern population. The purpose of this study is to examine the modern average CI, compare measurements from today’s population to the highly referenced 1970s table, and examine what genealogical factors may impact a person’s CI measurement. Methods Fifty-nine subjects were measured for cephalic width and length. CI was calculated for all subjects, and statistical analysis was performed. Results There was a clinically significant increase in CI in every age group since the 1970s. The only statistically significant differences were between ethnicity and ethnicity-sex subgroups (not between age or sex groups). Conclusions The CI has changed in recent years, and based on these pilot data, the modern CI may be impacted more by ethnicity than age and sex. Clinical Relevance The typical CI in the modern generation is higher from the previously used 1970s standard tables. Updated measurements would aid clinicians when determining the need for cranial remolding orthoses and provide insight into the outcomes of treatment for deformational head shapes (whether via orthoses or other methods).

Epidemiology of heat-related illness in dogs under UK emergency veterinary care in 2022.

Dogs are exposed to increasing environmental risk for developing heat-related illness (HRI), with 2022 recorded as the hottest year to date in the UK and most of Europe. This study used VetCompass data to report the incidence risk, event fatality rate and canine risk factors for HRI in dogs presenting to Vets Now emergency care practices in the UK during 2022. From the clinical records of 167,751 dogs under care at Vets Now emergency clinics in 2022, 384 HRI events were identified. The 2022 incidence risk of HRI within the Vets Now caseload was 0.23% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.21%‒0.25%), with an event fatality rate of 26.56% (95% CI: 21.66%-32.25%). Multivariable analysis identified breed, age and sex/neuter status as risk factors for HRI. Brachycephalic dogs had 4.21 times the odds of HRI compared to mesocephalic dogs (95% CI: 3.22‒5.49, p<0.001). The clinical data used in this study were not primarily recorded for research and had some substantial levels of missing data (especially patient bodyweight). In order to protect canine welfare, improved long-term mitigation strategies are urgently needed to minimise HRI risk and associated fatality in UK dogs.

A computational modelling tool for prediction of head reshaping following endoscopic strip craniectomy and helmet therapy for the treatment of scaphocephaly

BackgroundEndoscopic strip craniectomy followed by helmet therapy (ESCH) is a minimally invasive approach for correcting sagittal craniosynostosis. The treatment involves a patient-specific helmet designed to facilitate lateral growth while constraining sagittal expansion. In this study, finite element modelling was used to predict post-treatment head reshaping, improving our comprehension of the necessary helmet therapy duration. MethodSix patients (aged 11 weeks to 9 months) who underwent ESCH at Connecticut Children's Hospital were enrolled in this study. Day-1 post-operative 3D scans were used to create skin, skull, and intracranial volume models. Patient-specific helmet models, incorporating areas for growth, were designed based on post-operative imaging. Brain growth was simulated through thermal expansion, and treatments were modelled according to post-operative Imaging available. Mechanical testing and finite element modelling were combined to determine patient-specific mechanical properties from bone samples collected from surgery.Validation compared simulated end-of-treatment skin surfaces with optical scans in terms of shape matching and cranial index estimation. ResultsComparison between the simulated post-treatment head shape and optical scans showed that on average 97.3 ± 2.1 % of surface data points were within a distance range of −3 to 3 mm. The cranial index was also accurately predicted (r = 0.91). ConclusionsIn conclusion, finite element models effectively predicted the ESCH cranial remodeling outcomes up to 8 months postoperatively. This computational tool offers valuable insights to guide and refine helmet treatment duration. This study also incorporated patient-specific material properties, enhancing the accuracy of the modeling approach.

Prevalence and antibiotic resistance in bacterial isolates of dogs with ulcerative keratitis in São Paulo State, Brazil.

Identify microorganisms present in canine eyes affected by ulcerative keratitis and assess its resistance profile to available antimicrobial drugs. Samples were collected from 88 canine eyes that exhibited ulcerative keratitis. They were identified using MALDI-TOF and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing by disk diffusion. Among the assessed subjects, brachycephalic dogs accounted for 74.48% (50/83) of the evaluated canines. Among the 88 evaluated eyes, 90.9% (80/88) showed positive cultures, with 11.33% (10/88) of the samples isolating more than one species of bacteria. Of all bacterial isolates identified (90), Gram-positive bacteria accounted for 63.33% (57/90), while Gram-negative bacteria constituted 36.66% (33/90), with predominance of Staphylococcus spp. at 35.55% (32/90) being, Staphylococcus pseudintermedius at 68.75% (22/32), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at 15.55% (14/90), respectively. Staphylococcus spp. exhibited resistance to penicillin (89.29%), sulfadiazine and trimethoprim (60.71%), and tetracycline (67.86%), while doxycycline (88.89%), cefotaxime (85.71%), chloramphenicol (82.14%), gentamicin, and moxifloxacin (78.57%) showed the highest sensitivity rates. Pseudomonas aeruginosa displayed sensitivity (100%) to gentamicin and imipenem, and resistance (8.33%) to norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin, and cefepime. Similarly, the Enterobacteriaceae family showed higher sensitivity to amikacin and gentamicin (88.89%), imipenem (88.24%), and levofloxacin (87.5%), with pronounced resistance to amoxicillin-clavulanate (50%) and cefazolin (47.06%). This highlights multiresistance in 23.33% (21/90) of the isolates. The most isolated species in canine ulcerative keratitis are S. pseudintermedius and P. aeruginosa. However, other species were also isolated, demonstrating diversity in ocular microbiota infection. There is a high-rate multidrug resistance associated with canine ulcerative keratitis. Nevertheless, these strains exhibited sensitivity to antimicrobials commonly used in veterinary ophthalmology.

New diagnostic criteria for metopic ridges and trigonocephaly: a 3D geometric approach

BackgroundTrigonocephaly occurs due to the premature fusion of the metopic suture, leading to a triangular forehead and hypotelorism. This condition often requires surgical correction for morphological and functional indications. Metopic ridges also originate from premature metopic closure but are only associated with mid-frontal bulging; their surgical correction is rarely required. Differential diagnosis between these two conditions can be challenging, especially in minor trigonocephaly.MethodsTwo hundred seven scans of patients with trigonocephaly (90), metopic rigdes (27), and controls (90) were collected. Geometric morphometrics were used to quantify skull and orbital morphology as well as the interfrontal angle and the cephalic index. An innovative method was developed to automatically compute the frontal curvature along the metopic suture. Different machine-learning algorithms were tested to assess the predictive power of morphological data in terms of classification.ResultsWe showed that control patients, trigonocephaly and metopic rigdes have distinctive skull and orbital shapes. The 3D frontal curvature enabled a clear discrimination between groups (sensitivity and specificity > 92%). Furthermore, we reached an accuracy of 100% in group discrimination when combining 6 univariate measures.ConclusionTwo diagnostic tools were proposed and demonstrated to be successful in assisting differential diagnosis for patients with trigonocephaly or metopic ridges. Further clinical assessments are required to validate the practical clinical relevance of these tools.