Pelvic Limb Research Articles

Perioperative epidural catheter analgesia as a component of a multimodal analgesic approach in a dog with thoracic hemivertebrae and kyphosis undergoing thoracic vertebral stabilisation

AbstractA 4‐year‐old, male, neutered French bulldog weighing 13.5 kg presented with urinary and faecal incontinence, progressive, non‐painful paraparesis and pelvic limb proprioceptive ataxia. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a T12 constrictive myelopathy in association with multiple thoracic vertebral malformations, and mildly impinging thoracic intervertebral disc protrusions. Additionally, there was a sacral axial defect and degenerative lumbosacral stenosis. Surgical treatment comprised bilateral dorsal vertebral stabilisation of T9–T13. This case report summarises the peri‐anaesthetic management, which included an ‘in‐plane’ ultrasound‐guided placement of an epidural catheter at the level of L3–L4 and advancement cranially to T12 as a component of a multimodal analgesic regimen. Following the cessation of postoperative epidural bupivacaine administration, the patient remained comfortable without requiring rescue analgesia, and was discharged within 24 hours of surgery. At the latest recheck 5 months after surgery, the dog's neurological status remained static. This technique and application remain unexplored in existing veterinary literature.

Assessment of glial fibrillary acidic protein and anti-glial fibrillary acidic protein autoantibody concentrations and necrotising meningoencephalitis risk genotype in dogs with pug dog myelopathy.

Pugs commonly present with thoracolumbar myelopathy, also known as pug dog myelopathy (PDM), which is clinically characterised by progressive signs involving the pelvic limbs, no apparent signs of pain and, often, incontinence. In addition to meningeal fibrosis and focal spinal cord destruction, histopathology has confirmed lymphohistiocytic infiltrates in the central nervous system (CNS) in a considerable number of pugs with PDM. Lymphohistiocytic CNS inflammation also characterises necrotising meningoencephalitis (NME) in pugs. This study aimed to investigate the potential contribution of an immunological aetiology to the development of PDM. The concentrations of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in serum and CSF and of anti-GFAP autoantibodies in CSF were measured with an ELISA. In addition, a commercial test was used for genetic characterisation of the dog leukocyte antigen class II haplotype, which is associated with NME susceptibility. This study included 87 dogs: 52 PDM pugs, 14 control pugs, four NME pugs and 17 dogs of breeds other than pugs that were investigated for neurological disease (neuro controls). Anti-GFAP autoantibodies were present in 15 of 19 (79%) of the PDM pugs tested versus six of 16 (38%) of the neuro controls tested (p = 0.018). All 18 PDM pugs evaluated had detectable CSF GFAP. Serum GFAP was detected in two of three (67%) of the NME pugs and in two of 11 (18%) of the control pugs but not in any of the 40 tested PDM pugs. Male pugs heterozygous for the NME risk haplotype had an earlier onset of clinical signs (70 months) compared to male pugs without the risk haplotype (78 months) (p = 0.036). The study was limited bythe lack of healthy dogs of breeds other than pugs and the small numbers of control pugs and pugs with NME. The high proportion of PDM pugs with anti-GFAP autoantibodies and high CSF GFAP concentrations provide support for a potential immunological contribution to the development of PDM.

Pelvic limb monoparesis with excessive external hip rotation in a dog.

Pelvic limb monoparesis with excessive external hip rotation in a dog.

Allergic Dermatitis in Pêga Breed Donkeys (Equus asinus) Caused by Culicoides Bites in the Amazon Biome, Pará, Brazil.

An allergy to bites from Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) occurs because of a hypersensitivity reaction caused by the inoculation of insect salivary antigens during the bite, resulting in immune-mediated dermatitis. To the best of our knowledge, no previous studies have focused on allergic dermatitis in donkeys in Brazil. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the epidemiological, clinicopathological, and therapeutic aspects of allergic dermatitis in donkeys and to identify the insects involved in its epidemiology. This study reported the occurrence of dermatitis in 17 animals. The clinical signs were restlessness and severe itching. Skin lesions were found on the head, depigmented areas of the muzzle and cheeks, flanks, pelvic and thoracic limbs, and the scrotal sac. The lesions were characterized by areas of alopecia with crusts accompanied by serosanguineous exudates. Histologically, the lesions were characterized as moderate superficial dermatitis with irregular epidermal acanthosis and pronounced diffuse orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis. In total, 378 Culicoides specimens were collected, with Culicoides ocumarensis Ortiz being the most abundant species. The combined application of copaiba oil and a multivitamin emulsion exhibited potential for topical treatment of allergic dermatitis caused by insect bites in donkeys. Our study revealed an association between allergic dermatitis in donkeys and Culicoides.

Paediatric fractures at the district teaching hospital of Oueme-Plateau in Benin republic: epidemiology and therapeutic modalities

Background: Fractures are a common occurrence in pediatric traumatology, accounting for 10 to 25% of all fractures. This study aims was to describe their epidemiological characteristics and specify the therapeutic modalities available at DTH-OP. Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive, and analytical monocentric study conducted in the surgery and emergency departments of DTH-OP. Medical records of patients aged 0 to 15 years admitted for fractures and seen between 1 January 2021 and 31 December 2022 were identified. Results: Two hundred and thirty (230) cases met the inclusion criteria for 266 fractures. The mean age was 7.6. There were 137 (59.6%) males and 93 (40.4%) females, giving a sex ratio of 1.5. The circumstances of occurrence were road accident and home accident in the same proportions (97 cases; 42.2%). Sport accident and work accident occurred in the same proportions (12 cases; 5.2%). The series included 134 fractures (50.4%) of the pelvic limbs and 96 fractures of the thoracic limbs (36.1%). One hundred and seventy-six (176) patients (76.5%) had received orthopaedic treatment. Treatment modalities included cast 149 cases (84.7%). Conclusions: Fractures in children are common, especially in older children and adolescents. Males were more affected than females. Etiological circumstances are dominated by road and domestic accidents. The treatment is essentially orthopaedic. The surgical treatment is based on thin pins and Metaizeau pins.  

Clinicopathological and pedigree investigation of a novel spinocerebellar neurological disease in juvenile Quarter Horses in North America.

In 2020, a novel neurologic disease was observed in juvenile Quarter Horses (QHs) in North America. It was unknown if this was an aberrant manifestation of another previously described neurological disorder in foals, such as equine neuroaxonal dystrophy/equine degenerative myeloencephalopathy (eNAD/EDM). To describe the clinical findings, outcomes, and postmortem changes with Equine Juvenile Spinocerebellar Ataxia (EJSCA), differentiate the disease from other similar neurological disorders, and determine a mode of inheritance. Twelve neurologically affected QH foals and the dams. Genomic DNA was isolated and pedigrees were manually constructed. All foals (n = 12/12) had a history of acute onset of neurological deficits with no history of trauma. Neurological deficits were characterized by asymmetrical spinal ataxia, with pelvic limbs more severely affected than thoracic limbs. Clinicopathological abnormalities included high serum activity of gamma-glutamyl transferase and hyperglycemia. All foals became recumbent (median, 3 days: [0-18 days]), which necessitated humane euthanasia (n = 11/12, 92%; the remaining case was found dead). Histological evaluation at postmortem revealed dilated myelin sheaths and digestion chambers within the spinal cord, most prominently in the dorsal spinocerebellar tracts. Pedigree analysis revealed a likely autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. EJSCA is a uniformly fatal, rapidly progressive, likely autosomal recessive neurological disease of QHs <1 month of age in North America that is etiologically distinct from other clinically similar neurological disorders. Once the causative variant for EJSCA is validated, carriers can be identified through genetic testing to inform breeding decisions.

Hybrid external fixator for treatment of a tibial proximal comminuted diaphyseal fracture in a foal

AbstractA 15‐day‐old colt was presented with grade 5 lameness (American Association of Equine Practitioners ‐ lameness scale), oedema of the right pelvic limb and stifle joint instability. A radiographic examination revealed a complete comminuted fracture of the proximal right tibia. To treat this, a surgical reduction was performed using a hybrid external fixator. The hybrid external fixator consisted of two rings placed above the proximal and distal epiphyseal plates, respectively, which were then linked with threaded rods. Within 24 hours of the surgery, the foal started weight‐bearing again. After 6 days, the hybrid external fixator rings were distracted by 1 mm per day for 17 days, which helped to increase the bone length. Once the hybrid external fixator was removed, a small shortening of the tibia (1 cm) was observed compared to the contralateral limb, but the epiphyseal cartilage was maintained.

Arterial Blood Supply of the Stifle Joint in Horses.

The vascularization pattern of the equine stifle joint is insufficiently described in the literature, even though there is a growing need for knowledge of the exact blood supply, as (i) arthroscopy and endoscopic surgery techniques are increasingly performed in horses and (ii) ex vivo models of menisci need nutrient supply that mimic the in vivo situation. The aim of this study was to describe the vessels involved in the stifle joint supply and the exact branching pattern of the popliteal artery. Colored latex was injected into the arteries of nine pelvic limbs of equine cadavers (n = 6) to evaluate the occurrences, variations and approximate diameters of vessels that supplied the stifle joints. Next to a branch of the saphenous and descending genicular arteries, eleven branches of the popliteal artery could be described in horses that feed the vascular network of the stifle joint. With a focus on the blood supply of the menisci, a vascularization map was created to show the main influx to these intra-articular structures in detail. These findings are potentially of great importance to both clinicians in preparation of best-suited incisions for arthroscopy and researchers designing new approaches for meniscal studies and choosing suitable animal models.

Anatomical and topographic features of the gluteal muscle group of extensors and rotators of the hip joint in a Maine Coon cat

The article presents the anatomical features of the gluteal group of extensors and supinators of the hip joint in a Maine Coon cat, which are absent in the available literature. The Maine Coon is the largest of the numerous breeds of domestic cats. To date, the anatomy of cats, and even more so the age, sex, breed, and species characteristics remain poorly understood, while the study of the specific anatomical features of the pelvic limb muscles in animals is one of the urgent tasks in the field of comparative anatomy and practical veterinary medicine. We have established that the muscles of the gluteal extensor group belong to different types of muscles: the middle gluteal is dynamic, the additional and deep gluteal, the pear–shaped is dynamostatic, with appropriate functional abilities. The research was carried out at the Department of Anatomy and Histology of Animals named after Professor A.F. Klimov, Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology – MBA named after K.I. Scriabin."The sectional material – pelvic limbs (n=8), selected from a domestic cat, without external signs of musculoskeletal pathologies, served as a material for research. Methods of fine macro- and microanatomic dissection were used, followed by functional analysis of the studied structures and skeletotopic projection of points of attachment of muscle parts. On the basis of the conducted research, we have established the skeleto-topical features of the anatomical formations on the pelvic and femur bones. It has been convincingly shown that the main extensor of the hip joint in the Maine Coon is the gluteus medius muscle. It is the most powerful among the gluteal muscles and belongs to the dynamic type in its internal structure. At the same time, the additional gluteus muscle, being a muscle of the dynamo-static type, performs a more static function of the joint, that is, when it is extended, it holds the joint in this position for a longer time. The piriformis and deep gluteus muscles, anchored by the bases at different levels, are synergists in hip abduction.

Morphological features of capsules of trichinella larvae in the muscle tissue of badgers of the Amur region

One of the main reservoirs of the causative agent of trichinosis in the Amur region is the badger, whose meat and fat are used for medicinal purposes or as a delicacy. Data on infection of badgers and the localization of Trichinella larvae in the muscle tissue of badgers are ambiguous. The morphological features of the development of muscle tissue in badgers are associated with lifestyle, which is likely reflected in the localization of Trichinella larvae in certain muscles. The goal is to determine the morphological parameters of capsules of Trichinella larvae in the muscle tissue of badgers in the conditions of the Amur region. The material was the muscle tissue of the skeletal muscles of the head, pectoral, pelvic limbs, muscles of the spinal column and abdominal cavity of badgers, hunted by hunters under licenses in the Amur region.Detection of Trichinella larvae was carried out by compressor trichinoscopy and digestion in individual housing, according to MUK 4.2.2747-10 “Methods of sanitary and parasitological examination of meat and meat products.” For each muscle, the intensity of invasion was determined (personal/gram). Morphological parameters of capsules of Trichinella larvae were determined using an eyepiece micrometer. The capsule shape index was calculated using the formula V=D/L.The most invaded muscles in badgers have been identified and the shape index of capsules of Trichinella larvae has been determined. Areas of natural foci of trichinosis in the Amur region have been identified. In badgers, the most infested Trichinella larvae are the head muscles (mylohyoid muscle, tongue muscle tissue and masticatory muscle), which are preferable to take for diagnosing trichinosis in this animal species.The rounded shape of the capsules of Trichinella larvae (shape index 0.72), characteristic of badgers of the weasel family, was established. The areas of natural foci of trichinosis have been identified - Mikhailovsky, Seryshevsky, Blagoveshchensky, Tambov and Ivanovo administrative districts of the Amur Region. Of particular concern is infection in the southern, most populated areas, where there is a high probability of the transition of trichinosis from natural foci to anthropurgic and synanthropic ones.

The technique of transosseous osteosynthesis in traumatic dislocation of the femur in the hip joint in dogs

At the Ilizarov Centre, various techniques of transosseous osteosynthesis of the hip for traumatic dislocations of the femoral head have been developed and introduced into veterinary practice. Clinical use of external fixation has demonstrated both advantages and disadvantages of a number of techniques. In order to optimize, while preserving the anatomical structures of the joint, some changes in the technique were made. The technique with a hinged connection between the external supports of the pelvis and thigh has found application to a greater extent. The hinged connection of the pelvic and femoral supports was replaced with an immobilizing structure, and the hip fixation became less traumatic. 20 dogs of different breeds and different sizes were operated on, using the proposed optimized technique. To fix the hip, transosseous osteosynthesis of the pelvis according to Ilizarov and external osteosynthesis of the femur were performed. Transosseous osteosynthesis was performed no later than 3 days after injury. Immobilization of the hip was performed within the periods of 21 to 35 days. The assessment of the functions of the pelvic limbs was determined by clinical research methods. A detailed description of the technique for performing external fixation of the hip is provided in the article. The good results of using this technique with restoration of the functions of the pelvic limb have been clinically confirmed. Scientific data on experimental modeling of arthroses are presented and temporary stabilization of the joint isjustified. The main advantage of the proposed technique is short-term immobilization of the hip in a physiological position without compression with maintaining the blood supply to the femoral head and in conformity with the viability of the articular cartilage.

Tendinopathy of the superficial flexor of the finger in horses: morphological changes in the middle third of the pastern

A feature of the training process in riding sports horses is the repeated uneven maximum weight loads on the limbs and, in particular, on their tendon-ligamentous apparatus. The study used the tendons of the superficial flexor of the pectoral and pelvic extremities of sports horses that died from causes unrelated to tendon injuries. Tendinopathy was diagnosed in all animals during their lifetime. Isolated hands of the thoracic limb and feet of the pelvic limb were selected, as well as samples of the tendon of the superficial flexor of the finger of 15 sports horses aged 6 to 15 years. Histological studies were carried out according to a generally accepted technique: the material was fixed in a 10% formalin solution, poured into paraffin, sections were prepared, which were stained with hematoxylin and eosin to identify the general morphological picture, according to Van Gieson to assess the condition of bundles of collagen fibers and alcyan blue to identify glycosaminoglycans. The micropreparations were studied using Jenamed-2 and MicroScreen microscopes. As a result of the conducted research, original data were obtained. Signs of chronic inflammation, numerous foci of tissue destruction in combination with moderate reactive changes in the tissue indicate a long, long-term course of the pathological process. Since the tendon is a moderately vascularized tissue, insufficient perfusion does not allow maintaining redox processes at the required level. Therefore, in conditions where metabolism is restored in well-vascularized skeletal muscles, this process has not yet been completed in tendons. The conditions of hypoxia themselves create a background for the development of connective tissue and sclerosis. It is possible that this is how the signs of sclerosis gradually increase in the epithenonia and perithenonia, as well as in the walls of blood vessels, which were identified in our studies.

The Importance of Evaluating Sudomotor Function in the Diagnosis of Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy.

Cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is a disorder affecting the autonomic nerves that regulate the cardiovascular system, leading to irregular heart rate and blood pressure control. It is commonly associated with diabetes mellitus but can also result from other conditions such as autoimmune disorders, chronic kidney disease, alcohol abuse, and certain medications. Screening for CAN is essential, particularly in individuals with poor glycemic control, cardiovascular risk factors, or complications. Early identification of CAN is vital for timely intervention to prevent or manage cardiovascular complications effectively. Regular screening helps detect CAN before symptoms emerge, enabling early intervention to slow or halt its progression. This study examined the relationship between sudomotor function and cardiovascular reflex tests. This was a cross-sectional study conducted between June 2019 and June 2020. The study included 271 subjects aged 18 years and above who provided informed consent, were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and were overweight or obese. Exclusion criteria encompassed patients with other types of diabetes, pregnant women, those with recent neoplasm diagnoses, stroke sequelae, history of myocardial infarction, or pelvic limb amputations. The assessment of cardiac autonomic neuropathy involved conducting an electrocardiogram and evaluating the QTc interval in the morning before taking medication. Additionally, cardiovascular reflex tests (CART) were conducted, including assessments of heart rate variability during deep breathing, the Valsalva maneuver, and changes in orthostatic position. Simultaneously, the diagnosis of CAN was assessed by performing a sweat test using a Sudoscan assessment (Impeto Medical, Moulineaux, France). Results: More than half of the participants (52%, n=143) were female. Significant differences in statistical measures were noted between females and males regarding age, systolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, A1c level, total cholesterol, triglycerides, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and bilirubin levels. Within the CAN-diagnosed group (CAN+), 40.92% were classified as mild cases (n=90), 47.27% as moderate cases (n=104), and 11.81% as severe cases (n=26). Among the CAN+ group, 54% (n=119) were women. Electrochemical skin conductance was lower in the CAN+ group than the CAN- group in hands (67.34±15.51 μS versus 72.38±12.12 μS, p=0.008) and feet (73.37±13.38 μS versus 82.84 ±10.29 μS, p<0.001). The Sudoscan-CAN score significantly correlated with Ewing scores (r= 0.522, p<0.001). In multiple linear regression analysis, the Sudoscan-CAN score remained significantly associated with age, high BMI, long-standing diabetes, and Ewing score. Sudoscan demonstrates potential in identifying patients with an increased risk of CAN. Its integration into clinical practice can improve patient outcomes through early detection, risk stratification, and personalized treatment approaches. Its non-invasive, portable, and user-friendly features render it suitable for utilization in outreach programs or resource-constrained settings as part of screening efforts designed to pinpoint high-risk individuals for additional assessment.

3D Slicer open-source software plug-in for vector-based angle calculation of canine hind limb alignment in computed tomographic images.

Severe and complex angular limb deformities in dogs require accurate morphological assessment using diagnostic imaging to achieve successful orthopedic surgery. Computed tomography (CT) is commonly used to overcome projection errors in two-dimensional angular measurements of dog hindlimb alignment. Three-dimensional volume rendering (VR) techniques permit virtual positioning and variable projection, but the final CT-image that defines the projection plane for angular measurements remains two-dimensional. We wanted to develop a true three-dimensional open-source technique to measure the alignments of the hind limbs of dogs in CT scanners. We developed an open-source 3D Slicer plug-in, to perform angular measurements using vector calculations in three-dimensional space. In 113 CT-scans of canine pelvic limbs, femoral torsion, femoral varus, femorotibial rotation, tibial torsion, tibial varus and tibiotalar rotation angles were calculated and compared to an already validated technique using VoXim®. Reference points were identified and measurements were possible in the 113 acquisitions. The greatest difference between the two techniques was 1.4° at only one tibial torsion angle. Mean values for all Bland-Altman plots did not show significant differences and were less than 0.07° for all comparisons. Based on these results we considered angular measurements of canine hind limb alignment in CT scans using the 3D Slicer extension program sufficiently accurate for clinical orthopedic and surgical purposes in veterinary medicine. With our open-source 3D Slicer extension software, we provide a free accessible tool for veterinary orthopedic surgeons and thus we hope to improve angular measurements in CT-scans of canine hind limb deformities through true three-dimensionality.

Skin graft on a collagen and elastin matrix fixed with negative pressure in a complicated pediatric dog bite: case report

Animal bites represent a significant source of morbidity in the pediatric population, with dogs being the primary cause. Highlighting the need for innovative solutions to effectively tackle the issue and enhance both functional and aesthetic outcomes. Dog bites, marked by a heightened morbidity rate, present an inherent infection risk owing to the considerable bacterial load present in saliva. The fundamental approach to treatment revolves around preventing infection through meticulous washing, debridement, and the timely implementation of early primary closure. We detail the management of a pediatric patient with a dog bite on the pelvic limb, resulting in a challenging-to-manage wound. This case was successfully treated with a skin graft on a bed of collagen matrix, secured with negative pressure therapy. The choice of the appropriate technique for reconstructing skin defects depends on their depth and size. Consequently, combining these three techniques yielded a favorable functional and aesthetic outcome for the patient. This case report emphasizes the relevance of employing different techniques in managing complicated dog bites.

Clinical findings and outcome in goats with discospondylitis and vertebral osteomyelitis.

Vertebral infections, including vertebral osteomyelitis, septic physitis, and discospondylitis, are rarely reported in goats, and when reported, have been largely limited to necropsy case reports. Describe clinical findings and outcome in goats with vertebral infections evaluated by computed tomography (CT). Five goats with vertebral osteomyelitis, septic physitis, and discospondylitis evaluated by CT. Retrospective case series. The most common presenting complaints were progressive weakness, paresis and recumbency. Three goats were tetraparetic and 2 goats had pelvic limb paraparesis. Clinicopathologic findings included leukocytosis, mature neutrophilia, and hyperfibrinogenemia. The most common vertebrae affected were C7-T1. All 5 goats had discospondylitis with or without vertebral osteomyelitis and septic physitis. Computed tomographic evidence of spinal cord compression was present in 4/5 goats. Medical management (antimicrobials, physical therapy, analgesia, supportive care) was attempted in 4 goats, and 1 goat was euthanized at the time of diagnosis. All 4 goats that were treated regained ambulatory ability and survived to hospital discharge. Despite severity of CT imaging findings, goats with discospondylitis, septic physitis, and vertebral osteomyelitis can successfully return to ambulatory function. Additional studies are required to determine ideal treatment regimens.

Feline tibial osteosynthesis

Diaphyseal fractures of the tibia occur as a result of trauma to the pelvic limb and are a rupture in the continuity of the diaphyseal corticosteroid bone. Animals with this type of fracture must be evaluated to determine whether it is the result of contusion or pathology, such as neoplasms. The study reports the case of a three-year-old mixed-breed feline, weighing three and a half kilos, with non-weight-bearing lameness on the right pelvic limb. The patient was attacked by a dog five days before the appointment. Upon physical examination, it was possible to observe loss of bone continuity in the right pelvic limb in the tibia region. There was an increase in volume, without apparent skin lesions. Radiographic, blood count and biochemical exams were performed. Based on clinical presentation, physical examination, imaging diagnosis and laboratory results, it was concluded that the animal had a fracture of the distal third diaphyseal tibia. Osteosynthesis of the tibia was indicated as treatment, in addition to prescription analgesics to alleviate the patient's pain.

Gross anatomical measurements and microscopic quantification of epidermal laminar density of the porcine hoof capsule

Objective: To compare measurements of the medial and lateral hooves of the forelimbs and rear limbs and to quantify epidermal laminae density in the hoof capsules of sows. Materials and methods: Hoof measurements were obtained from 40 thoracic and 40 pelvic limbs of clinically sound sows. Holes were drilled into each digit to determine the depth of the dorsal wall, abaxial wall, and sole. Dorsal wall length, abaxial wall height, sole width, sole + wall length, and ground surface of each hoof were measured. All measurements of depth and length were made using an electronic digital caliper. Epidermal laminar density was analyzed in 69 thoracic and 74 pelvic limbs. The laminar junction was divided into zones consisting of 25 laminae each. Zone width was measured using an electronic digital caliper. Results: Lateral digits from rear limbs were longer than medial digits on the dorsal and volar surfaces. Both digits on the forelimbs had wider soles than those of the rear limbs. Abaxial wall depth was significantly less than dorsal wall depth. The laminar zones at the axial and abaxial extremities of the wall were significantly less dense than the zones at the dorsal aspect of the toe. Implications: Differences in hoof wall measurements in swine have previously been under reported in scientific literature. The results of this study indicate that the thinnest portions of the hoof wall may be related to the most common sites of lesions as reported in prior studies.

Pathologic classification of a late-onset peripheral neuropathy in a spontaneous Labrador retriever dog model.

Late-onset peripheral neuropathy (LPN) is a heritable canine neuropathy commonly found in Labrador retrievers and is characterized by laryngeal paralysis and pelvic limb paresis. Our objective was to establish canine LPN as a model for human hereditary peripheral neuropathy by classifying it as either an axonopathy or myelinopathy and evaluating length-dependent degeneration. We conducted a motor nerve conduction study of the sciatic and ulnar nerves, electromyography (EMG) of appendicular and epaxial musculature, and histologic analysis of sciatic and recurrent laryngeal nerves in LPN-affected and control dogs. LPN-affected dogs exhibited significant decreases in compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude, CMAP area, and pelvic limb latencies. However, no differences were found in motor nerve conduction velocity, residual latencies, or CMAP duration. Distal limb musculature showed greater EMG changes in LPN-affected dogs. Histologically, LPN-affected dogs exhibited a reduction in the number of large-diameter axons, especially in distal nerve regions. In conclusion, LPN in Labrador retrievers is a common, spontaneous, length-dependent peripheral axonopathy that is a novel animal model of age-related peripheral neuropathy that could be used for fundamental research and clinical trials.

Assessment of New Radiographic Traits in Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD)

Abstract Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) is a polygenic, multifactorial developmental disorder of the hip joint. Hip laxity, an early characteristic of CHD, leads to degeneration within the joint due to mechanical injury. Definitive diagnosis can be achieved by x-ray examination. The aim of our study is to refine CHD assessments using a quantitative planimetry method. The measurement of the Norberg angle (NA) was found subjective and insufficient to measure hip laxity on the standard ventrodorsal projection, because extension of the pelvic limbs stretches the joint capsule and supports joint congruence. Therefore, we have decided to verify other methods of detecting CHD, which include measurement of femoral head coverage (linear and area coverage) and congruence angle (AoC). These parameters could provide us with relevant information about how well the head of the femur fits into the acetabulum and thus might help to assess CHD better, and identify affected individuals better. In our study, we included 122 x-ray images of 3 breeds of dogs of both sexes and at different ages 5.6 ± 1.8 years. The highest correlation was between both femoral head linear and both area overlap for Bavarian hounds. For Bernese mountain dogs it was between right NA and linear and area femoral overlap, between both femoral head linear and both area overlap. For German shepherd dogs it was found between both NA, between right NA and right AoC, between both AoC, between both NA with both femoral overlap and between both AoC and both femoral overlap on the same side.