Evaluation of parameters obtained from two systems of gait analysis.

BACKGROUND: The technical difficulties in utilising the force platform have stimulated the use and development of other gait systems. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the values of gait parameters obtained from a pressure-sensitive walkway and from a treadmill in healthy dogs during walking. METHODS: Twelve healthy, privately owned, Labrador retriever dogs were used. During each trial, each dog was led across the pressure-sensitive walkway utilising a loose leash to the right of the handler. The velocity was restricted to the range of 0.9 to 1.1 m/s and the acceleration between -0.15 and 0.15 m/s2 . For the treadmill, each dog also walked with leash loose on the treadmill. The treadmill speed was maintained at 0.9m/s. The temporospatial variables, and percentage of body weight distribution/percentage of pressure were evaluated between the two gait systems. RESULTS: For both forelimbs and hind limbs, significant differences were found between stance percentage, which was higher on treadmill, and swing percentage and stride length/stance distance, which were higher on the pressure-sensitive walkway. The duty factor value was 0.57 for the pressure-sensitive walkway and 0.60 for treadmill. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Each gait system has limitations, but also advantages that must be considered depending upon the variable and animal to be evaluated. The gait parameters obtained from the Tekscan pressure-sensitive walkway and Gait4Dog treadmill revealed differences in the temporospatial parameters between systems, but similarity in body-weight distribution/pressure percentage.

Radiological and osteological study of the pelvic limbs in free-ranging capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris).

This study aimed to describe the radiographic anatomy and osteology and to evaluate angular radiographic measurements-Norberg angle, inclination angle and anteversion angle-of the pelvic limbs in free-ranging capybaras. Twenty cadavers of free-ranging capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris), including five adults and 15 subadults, were studied. Ventrodorsal, craniocaudal, dorsoplantar and mediolateral radiographic views of the pelvic limbs were obtained. The radiographic features were described together with bone samples. The hip bone (os coxae), shaped like an isosceles trapezoid, was elongated and narrow with the presence of an oblong obturator foramen, sagittal ilial wing and rectilinear ilial body. The femoral shaft was relatively straight, while the greater trochanter was projected above the femoral head. No sesamoid bones of the gastrocnemius and popliteus muscles were observed radiographically or for those animals used in gross macroscopy. The fibula was located lateral and parallel to the tibia. Eight tarsal bones, four metatarsal bones and three digits were identified. The mean radiographic measurements included Norberg angle of 125.9°; respective angles of femoral inclination by the Hauptman B and Tomlinson methods of 139.9 and 141°; anteversion angle of the femoral head and neck of 29.80°. The bones of the pelvic limbs in capybaras have several anatomical characters and radiological features that are shared with members of the caviomorph superfamily Cavioidea. The radiographic angles measured in this study help characterize the functional morphology of this species.

Radiographic measurements of the hindlimbs in crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous, Linnaeus, 1766).

Life expectancy of crab-eating foxes in captivity is approximately 11 years, which favours the development of diseases including orthopaedic disorders. However, to understand disorders that may affect these animals, it is worth determining a normal range of measurements. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate radiographic measurements of joint angles of the hindlimbs and the ratio of patellar ligament length to patellar length in healthy crab-eating foxes. Fifteen captive crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous), eight males and seven females, aged more than 1 year old, weighing 5.5-7.9 kg were used. Anatomic and mechanical femoral joint angles were assessed in ventrodorsal radiographic views, and mediolateral views were taken to measure patellar ligament length and patellar length, and the tibial plateau angle. The right and left hindlimbs were evaluated. All measurements were conducted in triplicate by the same investigator. No statistically significant differences were observed between sides in the radiographic measurements. The anatomic lateral proximal femoral angle and the anatomic lateral distal femoral angle recorded mean values of 95.43° and 92.75°, respectively. The mechanical lateral proximal femoral angle and the mechanical lateral distal femoral angle recorded mean values of 93.39° and 96.75°, respectively. Inclination angles measured according to the Tomlinson, Hauptman A and Hauptman B methods were 133.80°, 147.32° and 128.63°, respectively. The tibial plateau recorded 18.77°, and the ratio of the patellar ligament length to the patellar length was 1.99. In conclusion, the collected data are important to characterize the normal values of crab-eating fox limbs.

Sonographic Evaluation of Liver Hemodynamic Indices in Overweight and Obese Dogs.

BACKGROUND: Hepatic circulatory disturbances have been associated with obesity and fatty liver in humans. In the veterinary literature, however, there is limited information regarding the effects of different body condition scores (BCS) on liver hemodynamic indices in dogs. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the influence of BCS on liver hemodynamic indices. ANIMALS: Fifty-three client-owned dogs of various breeds were included. METHODS: Prospective observational study. Dogs were divided into 3 BCS groups using a 5-point scale: G1 - 12 ideal dogs, G2 - 21 overweight dogs, G3 - 20 obese dogs. Mean portal velocity (MPV), portal blood flow volume (PBFV), portal congestion index (PCI), hepatic artery resistivity index (HARI), and hepatic vein (HV) spectral wave were obtained by pulsed Doppler sonography. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities were determined. Liver enzymes activities and liver hemodynamic indices were compared among groups. RESULTS: Obese dogs had lower MPV, higher percentage of abnormal hepatic vein spectral wave and higher median ALP activity than did ideal dogs (P < 0.05). Overweight and obese dogs had lower PBFV than ideal dogs (P < 0.01). Overweight dogs had higher median GGT activity than ideal dogs (P < 0.05). No difference was observed for PCI, HARI and median ALT activity among the groups. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Obesity was associated with changes in portal vein indices and in HV spectral wave. These changes were accompanied by significant differences in some liver enzymes activities and could be a sign of early liver disease.

Osteology and radiology of the Maned Wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) pelvic limb.

This study describes the osteology and radiology of the pelvic limb in maned wolves. Ten (five live and five dead) maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus), five males and five females, aged from 2 to 7 years old were used. Digital radiographs were taken and recorded for both pelvic limbs in all animals. Osteology was correlated with the radiographic images. The pelvis had a rectangular shape, and the obturator foramen (foramen obturatum) was oval. The femoral neck (collum femoris) was short and thick. The greater trochanter (trochanter major) extended proximally to near the dorsum of the femoral head (caput ossis femoris). The lateral femoral condyle (condylus lateralis) was larger than the medial condyle (condylus medialis), and the intercondylar fossa (fossa intercondylaris) had a slightly oblique orientation. The proximal tibia displayed medial and lateral condyles with the medial larger. The femur was slightly shorter than the tibia. Seven tarsal bones (ossa tarsi) were present, four long metatarsal bones (ossa metatarsalia II - V) and a short first metatarsal bone (os metatarsal I).

Provável extrusão de núcleo pulposo aguda e não compressiva em um cão: relato de caso / Probable acute non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion in a dog: case report

A extrusão discal aguda e não compressiva é caracterizada pela extrusão de caráter agudo/hiperagudo e não compressivo do núcleo pulposo de um disco intervertebral não degenerado. Pode ser chamada de hérnia de disco de baixo volume e alta velocidade ou explosões discais e geralmente está associado a exercícios intensos ou episódios traumáticos. O núcleo pulposo é fortemente forçado através de uma pequena fissura no ânulo fibroso dorsal, provocando uma contusão espinhal. Este relato tem como objetivo apresentar um caso de provável extrusão aguda de núcleo pulposo não compressiva. Foi atendido um cão macho, três anos e seis meses de idade, maltês, pesando 4,1kg. Como queixa principal, o proprietário relatou dificuldade locomotora e dor à manipulação há um dia, sem histórico de trauma. Foi constatada paraparesia não ambulatória de início agudo com ausência de propriocepção e dor superficial em membros pélvicos e dor à palpação epaxial da coluna toracolombar. A ressonância magnética (RM) evidenciou extensa área de hipersinal em segmento toracolombar da medula espinhal, sem sinais de compressão medular e de atenuação da intensidade do núcleo pulposo do disco intervertebral L1-L2. Foi feito diagnóstico presuntivo de mielopatia focal não compressiva com edema medular de todo segmento toracolombar, característico de uma extrusão aguda de núcleo pulposo não compressiva. Foi prescrito tratamento com anti-inflamatório esteroidal, analgésico, repouso absoluto e protocolo de reabilitação com acupuntura e fisioterapia. Após sete dias de tratamento, o animal recuperou a sensibilidade dolorosa superficial em membros pélvicos e evoluiu para paraparesia ambulatória. Os resultados deste relato sugerem que a RM pode ser útil para fazer um diagnóstico presuntivo em cães com histórico e sinais clínicos compatíveis. Além disso, o tratamento conservativo em extrusões discais não compressivas é preconizado e o paciente pode apresentar boa recuperação.(AU)

Acute and non-compressive disc extrusion is characterized by the acute character of extrusion of the nucleus pulposus without real compression of the spine. It has been called low-volume and high speed disc herniation or disc explosions, and usually is associated with an intense exercise or traumatic episode. This report aims to present a case of an acute extrusion of nucleus pulposus with no compression of the spinal cord. A 3.5 year-old male dog of the Maltes breed, weighing 4.1kg was presented at the Veterinary Hospital with locomotion disorders and pain during manipulation with no history of trauma. At the physical and neurological examination, non-ambulatory paraparesis of acute onset with absence of proprioception and superficial pain in hind limbs was found, as well as pain on palpation of epaxial thoracolumbar spine. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed extensive hyper intense area in the thoracolumbar spinal cord, with no signs of spinal cord compression, and decreased intensity of the nucleus pulposus of the L1-L2 intervertebral disc. Additionally, a spinal cord edema in all thoracolumbar segments was seen that is characteristic of an acute extrusion of non-compressive nucleus pulposus. A presumptive diagnosis of non-compressive myelopathy was assumed. The dog was prescribed steroidal anti-inflammatory, analgesic, absolute rest and rehabilitation protocol, including acupuncture and physiotherapy. The patient recovered superficial pain in the pelvic limbs and evolved into ambulatory paraparesis after seven days. The results of this report suggested that MRI can be useful for making a presumptive diagnosis in dogs with a history of compatible clinical signs. Moreover, the conservative treatment in non-compressive disc extrusions can be feasible.(AU)

Hematological markers and biochemical profiles in terms of gender and age of captive collared peccaries (Tayassu tajacu) in eastern Amazon.

Complete blood counts and blood biochemical analyses are laboratory tests that allow the monitoring of physiological condition, nutrition, and health in free-living or captive wild animals. When interpreting these tests, it is essential to compare the results with reference ranges that are suitable for the species. Few studies have been conducted on the hematological and biochemical characteristics of Tayassu tajacu, particularly for animals raised in the Amazon biome. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the influence of age and gender on the hematological and biochemical profiles of captive T. tajacu, and to establish reference intervals for these parameters. Complete blood counts and biochemical analyses were performed using manual methods and semi-automatic equipment, respectively. There were significant differences in relation to age in hematocrit and hemoglobin levels, and mean cell volumes, in captive T. tajacu. No basophils were observed, and the neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio was less than 1. Levels of total protein, urea, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase were significantly affected by age (P < 0.05). Gender did not affect any of the results. The hematological and biochemical parameters for this species were determined, and may be used as reference ranges for captive T. tajacu.

Evaluation of the marsh deer stifle joint by imaging studies and gross anatomy.

This study aimed to evaluate the stifle joint of marsh deer using imaging studies and in comparison with gross anatomy. Ten hindlimbs from 5 marsh deer (Blastocerus dichotomus) were used. Radiography, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed in each stifle joint. Two hindlimbs were dissected to describe stifle gross anatomy. The other limbs were sectioned in sagittal, dorsal or transverse planes. In the craniocaudal radiographic view, the lateral femoral condyle was broader than the medial femoral condyle. The femoral trochlea was asymmetrical. Subsequent multiplanar reconstruction revealed in the cranial view that the external surface of the patella was roughened, the medial trochlea ridge was larger than the lateral one, and the extensor fossa at the lateral condyle was next to the lateral ridge. The popliteal fossa was better visualized via the lateral view. Sagittal MRI images identified lateral and medial menisci, caudolateral and craniomedial bundles of cranial cruciate ligament, caudal cruciate ligament, patellar ligament and common extensor tendon. In conclusion, the marsh deer stifle presents some anatomical characteristics of the ovine stifle joint.

Influence of calibration protocols for a pressure-sensing walkway on kinetic and temporospatial parameters.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the influence on the kinetic and temporospatial parameters of calibration protocols with point and step techniques for a pressure-sensing walkway. METHODS: Nine Labrador dogs were used. Two protocols of point calibration technique (C1 and C2) and eight protocols of step calibration technique (C3 to C10) were performed. In C1, weight was added to a stool to match the body mass of each dog. In C2, weight was added to the stool to match a 46.1 kg person. The other eight calibration protocols represented combinations of the following factors: 46.1 kg and 96.1 kg persons, barefoot or wearing sneakers, and stepping onto the platform with one or two feet. RESULTS: The calibration protocols did not affect the temporospatial variables or percentages of body weight (%BW) distribution. Significant differences were found in both PVI (peak vertical force) and VI (vertical impulse) between barefoot versus wearing sneakers, 46.1 kg versus 96.1 kg person, and stepping onto the platform with one foot versus two feet. When comparing C1 with other protocols, significant differences were observed in PVF and VI for both forelimbs and hindlimbs. When comparing C2 with other protocols, significant differences were observed in PVF and VI for both forelimbs and hindlimbs in all protocols. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The PVF and VI were influenced by the calibration protocol used, but the %BW distribution and temporospatial parameters were not. Using the same calibration protocol for all dogs within the same group eliminated the variability of the kinetic data caused by the calibration.

Exogenous bacterial osteomyelitis in 52 dogs: a retrospective study of etiology and in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility profile (2000-2013).

BACKGROUND: Most clinical cases of osteomyelitis in dogs involve infectious agents, especially bacteria and fungi. The characterization of these microorganisms may aid in the prevention and treatment of disease. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate retrospectively microbiological cultures and in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility profile of isolates from 52 cases of bacterial osteomyelitis in long bones of dogs over 2000-2013. In 78% of the cases injuries were caused by a motor vehicle accident, but there were a few cases of dog bites (17%) and ascending infection due to pododermatitis (5%). ANIMALS AND METHODS: The isolated microorganisms were identified based on conventional phenotypic methods. In vitro disk diffusion test was performed using 30 different antimicrobials. RESULTS: The isolates were obtained from femur (28%), humerus (16%), tibia (31%), and radius/ulna (25%). Among 52 cases, culture was positive in 88% of cases. Thirteen genus of different species of microorganisms were isolated. The most common microorganisms isolated were Staphylococcus spp. and Escherichia coli followed by Streptococcus spp., enteric bacteria, Corynebacterium sp. and anaerobic bacteria. In 42% of cases cultures were mixed. The most effective drugs against isolated bacteria were amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium (79%) followed by ceftriaxone (69%). High-resistance rates were documented against azithromycin (80%), penicillin (59%), and clindamycin (59%). CONCLUSIONS: The present study highlights diverse etiologic agents in cases of infectious bacterial osteomyelitis, with predominance of Staphylococcus genus, and reinforces the importance of obtaining cultures and susceptibility profiles given the high rates of antimicrobial resistance.