Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) can be used to prevent atelectasis during anesthesia. We evaluated the effect of PEEP on intra- and postoperative oxygenation on obese dogs admitted for stifle surgery. Dogs received no PEEP (ZEEP; n = 10) or 7 cmH2O PEEP (n = 9) at random during general anesthesia. The partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) and its ratio to inspired fractional oxygen (PaO2:FiO2) were measured at start and end of surgery (FiO2 1.0), and 20, 120, and 240 minutes after extubation (FiO2 0.2). Cases of hypoxemia (PaO2 < 80 mmHg) were identified. There were no differences between treatment for either variable (P > 0.1 for treatment and P > 0.6 for treatment*time, for both variables). There were three cases of postoperative hypoxemia in the ZEEP treatment (P = 0.21). No significant improvement was achieved when PEEP 7 cmH2O was applied in isolation. Successful use of PEEP may require additional maneuvers.
This retrospective descriptive study evaluated the radiographic features of abdominal wall herniation in 72 budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) presented with abdominal or caudoventral coelomic distension, abnormal abdominal contour, or suspected protrusion of coelomic contents. The study population consisted of 71 females and 1 male; age was available for 65 birds, ranging from 2 to 8 years. All birds underwent plain radiographic examination, followed by contrast-enhanced radiography after oral administration of iohexol at 1 mL per bird, corresponding to 300 mg iodine per bird. Radiographic assessment focused on the location and contour of the protruded abdominal wall region, suspected herniated contents, gastrointestinal contrast filling patterns, suspected free fluid or localized gas accumulation, mineralized egg-related material, overlying skin and subcutaneous tissue thickening, and associated skeletal findings. Polyostotic hyperostosis was recorded in 49 of 72 birds (68.1%), and mineralized material compatible with egg-related remnants was identified in 10 of 72 birds (13.9%). The herniation was recorded as ventral or ventrocaudal in 40 birds (55.6%) and dorsocaudal or perineal in 4 birds (5.6%); location was not clearly recorded in 28 birds (38.9%). Contrast-enhanced radiography improved visualization of gastrointestinal involvement, particularly intestinal loops, and helped differentiate contrast-filled intestinal segments from adjacent soft tissue or non-gastrointestinal components. In selected cases, ultrasonography provided additional diagnostic value by helping differentiate fluid-filled or cystic structures when radiographic findings were inconclusive. Overall, this study provides an imaging-based descriptive reference for assessing abdominal wall herniation in budgerigars and highlights the practical value of plain and contrast-enhanced radiography as well as complementary ultrasonography for clinical assessment and preoperative planning.
The effects of prolonged sedation on hematological, biochemical, and coagulation variables have not been previously investigated in veterinary medicine. Twelve healthy adult mixed-breed female dogs were included. Blood samples (6 mL) were collected at baseline (M0) for complete blood count (CBC), biochemical testing, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (PTT) and fibrinogen. After M0, dogs were allocated into two groups: midazolam-fentanyl-propofol group (MFG; n = 6), which received a continuous infusion of midazolam (0.5 mg/kg/h), fentanyl (10 µg/kg/h), and propofol (18 mg/kg/h); and ketamine-morphine-propofol group (KMG; n = 6), which received a continuous infusion of ketamine (0.6 mg/kg/h), morphine (0.26 mg/kg/h), and propofol (18 mg/kg/h). The infusion was maintained for 24 hours under mechanical ventilation. Laboratory parameters were reassessed from 12 to 24 hours after the beginning of infusion (M12 and M24), and at 12, 24, and 48 hours after the infusion (T12, T24, and T48). Both protocols significantly reduced erythrocyte count, packed cell volume, and haemoglobin concentration. In KMG, TTP decreased significantly at M12, M24, and T24; TSP at M24; and lymphocytes at M12 and M24. No significant changes were observed in ALP, ALT, albumin, globulins, creatinine, urea, glucose and blood coagulation. Triglyceride and cholesterol concentrations increased significantly from M6 to T48, but without biochemical evidence of hepatic, renal, or coagulation impairment. Overall, both protocols induced transient hematological and biochemical changes without clinically meaningful alterations in hepatic or renal function, supporting their use in healthy dogs mechanically ventilated for 24 hours.
Immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia (IMHA) is a common autoimmune disorder in dogs. Haemoparasites, particularly intracellular organisms, are well-recognized causes of secondary IMHA and are associated with poorer clinical outcomes. However, the prognostic impact of concurrent Babesia gibsoni infection in dogs with IMHA remains incompletely characterized. This study aimed to compare survival outcomes between dogs with primary IMHA and those with IMHA associated with B. gibsoni infection. Fifty-five dogs (34 purebred, 21 crossbred; age 7 months-9 years) diagnosed with IMHA, according to ACVIM guidelines, were included. Twenty-six dogs had primary IMHA (11 males, 15 females), and 29 dogs had IMHA with natural B. gibsoni infection (12 males, 17 females), confirmed by PCR. All dogs received immunosuppressive therapy consisting of prednisolone (1 mg/kg q12h PO) or dexamethasone sodium phosphate (0.2 mg/kg q24h IV). Dogs with B. gibsoni infection additionally received antibabesial treatment that included initial imidocarb dipropionate (6.6 mg/kg IM) in two weeks interval, and doxycycline up to three weeks (10 mg/kg q12h PO). Cases were followed for 60 days. Survival analysis was performed using Cox proportional hazards regression. During follow-up, 40 dogs died of IMHA and 2 from unrelated causes. In multivariable analysis, male sex (HR=2.1; 95% CI: 1.1-4.2; p=0.034), marked spherocytosis (HR=2.1; 95% CI: 1.1-4.3; p=0.032), and concurrent B. gibsoni infection (HR=2.6; 95% CI: 1.2-2.9; p=0.024) were independently associated with increased hazard of death. In conclusion, male sex, marked spherocytosis, and B. gibsoni co-infection are key independent predictors of a poor prognosis in dogs with IMHA.
Desmoid tumors, also known as aggressive fibromatosis, are benign neoplastic proliferations with a high capacity for invasion into adjacent tissues and are incapable of promoting metastasis. Despite being rare, it is well described in medicine, whereas only isolated reports exist in veterinary medicine. Herein, we describe a case of primary aggressive fibromatosis affecting the cervical region of a young cat and associated with spinal cord compression and neurological signs. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed spinal cord compression and hypointensity on pulse sequences, which guided localization and facilitated excisional biopsy of the lesion. Histopathological examination suggested aggressive fibromatosis due to the benign proliferation of well-differentiated spindle-shaped mesenchymal cells with an abundant collagen matrix and invasion into the adjacent muscle tissue. After the surgical procedure and spinal cord decompression, the neurological symptoms improved. To date, no clinical signs of recurrence have been observed in this patient. The objective of this report was to describe a case of aggressive fibromatosis associated with neurological signs in a domestic cat, with an emphasis on clinical and diagnostic aspects, as this disease is rare and there is limited information in the veterinary literature regarding it.
Hemangiosarcomas (HSAs) are rare neoplasms in cats, with cutaneous and subcutaneous forms occurring more frequently than visceral HSAs and often associated with chronic ultraviolet radiation exposure. Herein, we report a case of vestibular syndrome secondary to subcutaneous hemangiosarcoma in a 2-year-old cat. The patient was presented with ataxia, proprioceptive deficits, cranial nerve palsy, mild nystagmus, and head tilt. The cat tested positive for feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), while complete blood count, serum biochemical profile, and albumin-to-globulin ratio were within normal limits. Based on the neurological findings and the absence of systemic abnormalities, central vestibulopathy was suspected. Corticosteroid therapy resulted in transient clinical improvement within 36 hours; however, 48 hours later, the cat developed vocalization and reduced consciousness. Due to the poor prognosis, euthanasia was elected. Necropsy revealed two dark-red subcutaneous nodules (∼1 cm) in the right thoracic region, multifocal omental nodules, and a red mass (3.2 × 2.7 × 1.3 cm) compressing and replacing part of the cerebellar parenchyma. Histopathologically, all nodules consisted of proliferating neoplastic endothelial cells forming irregular vascular channels filled with erythrocytes, consistent with hemangiosarcoma. Cerebellar metastasis accounted for the clinical signs of central vestibulopathy. Although meningoencephalitis is the most common cause of central vestibular disease in cats, neoplasms involving the cerebellum or brainstem should also be considered as differential diagnoses.
This study evaluated the influence of prior gabapentin administration, associated or not with integrative practices, on sedation scores, physiological parameters, and propofol requirement in cats sedated with dexmedetomidine undergoing elective orchiectomy. Forty healthy cats (3.76 ± 0.69 kg) were enrolled (T0) and randomized into four groups (n = 10). GAB group received gabapentin (100 mg administered orally) under standard housing, GAB-GCW group received the same treatment but was housed in a cat ward with integrative practices. Control groups received placebo in a cat ward with integrative practices (GCW) or standard housing (GC). After 120 minutes, all cats received dexmedetomidine (5 µg/kg IM). Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), temperature and sedation scores were assessed before (T1) and 30 minutes after dexmedetomidine (T2). Propofol induction dose, recovery times and quality were recorded. In T1, GAB-GCW showed higher sedation scores [6 (3-9)] than GAB [3 (2-5)] and GC [3 (1-5)], but not GCW. In T2, GAB [9 (2-12)] and GAB-GCW [7.5 (5-12)] scored higher than GC and GCW. Propofol requirements were lower in GAB (4.2 ± 1.9 mg/kg) than GCW (6.8 ± 1.5 mg/kg) and GC (7.2 ± 2 mg/kg) but not GAB-GCW (5.4 ± 1.7 mg/kg). Gabapentin had no effect on physiological variables or recovery. In conclusion, 100 mg of gabapentin given 120 minutes before handling enhances dexmedetomidine sedation and provides a significant propofol-sparing effect for anesthetic induction in cats, while integrative practices independently influenced sedation but did not produce an additive effect when combined with gabapentin.
A 4-year-old intact 3.4 kg domestic mixed-breed queen presented with a 48-hour history of lethargy, polydipsia, inappetence, and sanguineous vaginal discharge. Abdominal palpation identified a firm, painful mid-abdominal mass. Hematology indicated a stress leukogram with granulocytosis and lymphopenia. Abdominal radiography demonstrated intracardiac gas accumulation and calvarial bone overriding, pathognomonic signs of intrauterine fetal death. Fetal biometry confirmed term gestation; pelvimetry established fetopelvic compatibility, excluding obstructive dystocia. Absence of pendulous soft tissue opacities along the thoracoabdominal mammary chains radiographically corroborated the clinical absence of mammary development, atypical at term. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed a heterogeneous echotexture with diffuse dirty acoustic shadowing and reverberation artifacts consistent with intrauterine and intrafetal emphysematous gas, alongside discrete clean acoustic shadowing artifacts attributable to hyperechoic mineralized skeletal foci of the macerated fetus. Additionally, a round, non-peristaltic structure presumed to represent the nongravid uterine horn was suggestive of concurrent purulent metritis. Laparotomy revealed no peritonitis or intra-abdominal adhesions. Ovariohysterectomy confirmed a single emphysematous fetus, weighing 176 g, with fetid serosanguinous exudate in the gravid horn and hemopurulent fluid in the contralateral horn. Recovery was uneventful; hematologic parameters normalized by week 4. Fetal overgrowth combined with attenuated cumulative cortisol production and insufficient myometrial mechanostimulation were proposed to have precluded luteolysis, causing primary uterine inertia and failure of parturition initiation. Absent mammary development corroborated luteolysis failure through sustained progesterone-mediated suppression of prolactin-driven lactogenesis. Cervical patency most likely facilitated ascending bacterial contamination, yielding emphysematous maceration rather than sterile mummification. In conclusion, multimodal diagnostic imaging is highly valuable in feline obstetrical emergencies, suggesting that singleton gestations represent a documented risk factor for dystocia that may justify rigorous monitoring as the patient approaches term.
Treatment of avian malocclusion, or "scissor beak," is well-described in the literature, but reports have focused on early intervention of acute traumatic and congenital cases, and surgical correction of chronic mandibular malunion are rare. This report describes the diagnostic investigation, surgical correction, and long-term follow up of a 3-month-old Ameraucana rooster (Gallus gallus domesticus) with chronic beak malocclusion. Computed tomography was used to confirm the unilateral mandibular fracture malunion and guide surgical planning, which involved creation of a custom osteogenic distractor. The surgery consisted of mandibular osteotomy, placement of an external skeletal fixator, and placement of a feeding tube. Gradual distraction was applied every other day starting three days after surgery. A combination of analgesics, antibiotics, and assisted feeding was used during the distraction process. By 14 days post-operatively, radiographs revealed appropriate bone callus formation and implant-associated lucency, which raised concern for osteomyelitis. The external fixator and feeding tube were removed 21 days post-operatively, with beak function returning to normal and significant correction of the malocclusion. At 28 months post-operatively, the beak remained functional, requiring infrequent beak trims. This case report provides insights into the diagnosis and successful treatment of mandibular fracture malunion in a chicken, adding to the body of literature of malocclusion management.
LINE-1 (long interspersed nuclear element-1) is a family of related class I transposable elements in the DNA that is dispersed throughout the entire genome and the study of its methylation pattern is used in the understanding of several neoplasms. Canine mast cell tumors represent a frequent cutaneous neoplasm in veterinary practice presenting different degrees of malignancy and being classified according to their histological differentiation. In view of the current scientific scarcity of information in relation to the epigenetic pattern of neoplasms in domestic animals, this study aimed to verify whether there is correlation between the methylation pattern of LINE-1 with the different grading of canine mast cell tumors according to Kiupel classification. DNA and RNA were extracted from paraffinized healthy and neoplastic (classified as low-grade and high-grade) tissue samples using the phenol/chloroform/isoamyl alcohol and TRIzol® methods, respectively. LINE-1 methylation pattern and expression were quantified by qPCR. A higher LINE-1 expression was observed in neoplasms characterized with a higher degree of malignancy in relation to healthy samples and tumors with a lower degree of malignancy. It was also noted hypomethylation of the LINE-1 promoter region in both neoplastic mast cell tumor grades in relation to the healthy tissue, but no significant difference was found between low-grade and high-grade groups. Thus, high-grade tumors presented higher expression of LINE-1, suggesting the potential use of LINE-1 as a biomarker of genomic instability.
In cats, the high incidence of malignant mammary neoplasms with elevated rates of metastasis and recurrence underscores the need for more effective therapies to prevent disease progression. This preliminary study evaluated the impact of carboplatin or bleomycin electrochemotherapy on recurrence rates, adverse effects, and overall survival in female cats with mammary carcinoma undergoing mastectomy. Thirty-four female cats with mammary carcinoma were assigned to four groups: Group 1 (mastectomy), Group 2 (mastectomy plus chemotherapy), Group 3 (mastectomy plus electrochemotherapy with carboplatin and chemotherapy), and Group 4 (mastectomy plus electrochemotherapy with bleomycin and chemotherapy). The tumors were classified and graded histologically, and the proliferative index was assessed using Ki-67. Most cases were stage III, and 50% had nodal metastases. The predominant tumor types included cribriform carcinoma and histological grade II. All groups showed a high Ki-67 proliferation index (>20%), with no significant differences (p = 0.753). Hematocrit values in the fourth chemotherapy session were higher in G3 than in G2 (p = 0.022). The highest numerical recurrence rate occurred in G1, while no recurrences were observed in G2 or G4 during follow-up; however, this difference did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.086). Overall survival analysis showed a 82% mortality rate; G1 had 100% mortality, with a significant difference compared with the other groups (p = 0.0287). More chemotherapy sessions (≥5) were significantly associated with increased overall survival (p = 0.002), adding a mean of 39.1 days to disease-free survival per additional session. Taken together, these preliminary findings suggest that mastectomy alone was insufficient to control progression the cancer. Carboplatin-based protocols, whether used as conventional chemotherapy or combined with electrochemotherapy, showed lower recurrence rates, fewer adverse effects, and longer overall survival. However, due to the limited sample size, these results should be interpreted with caution. Further studies with larger cohorts are warranted to confirm these observations
Extramedullary plasmacytomas (EMPs) are uncommon neoplasms that rarely involve the feline larynx. This report details a solitary laryngeal EMP in a 12-year-old female domestic shorthair cat presenting with progressive dysphonia, dyspnea, and severe upper airway obstruction. Clinical and imaging examination revealed a mass originating from the epiglottis, causing severe chronic laryngeal stenosis. Due to the complexity and poor prognosis of the condition, euthanasia was elected. Histopathology demonstrated a non-encapsulated, submucosal proliferation of well-differentiated plasma cells within the epiglottis. The neoplastic cells exhibited mild to moderate cellular pleomorphism, characterized by anisocytosis, anisokaryosis, karyomegaly, occasional binucleation, and the presence of Mott cells. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) showed diffuse nuclear and cytoplasmic immunolabelling for MUM-1, confirming the plasma cell lineage. Based on the morphological and immunohistochemical findings, a diagnosis of solitary benign laryngeal EMP was established. This case emphasizes that while laryngeal EMPs are often histologically benign, their critical anatomical location can confer the potential for life-threatening obstructive respiratory disease. EMPs should thus be considered a key differential diagnosis for obstructive upper airway lesions in cats.
Fibroadenoma is a benign neoplasm with high prevalence in women but is rare in dogs. Its giant variant is defined by the lesion’s size (exceeding 5 cm) and weight. The standard treatment is surgical excision. The objective of this study was to demonstrate that the subclassification of giant fibroadenoma, as described in humans, can also be observed in female dogs, as evidenced by four cases analyzed. The evaluation comprised macroscopic examination and histopathological analysis, underscoring the importance of differential diagnosis and the characterization of this condition in the canine species.
Cefovecin sodium is a long-acting third-generation cephalosporin widely used in dogs and cats. After reconstitution, refrigerated storage for a limited period is recommended; however, experimental data regarding the effects of alternative controlled storage temperatures on drug stability and antimicrobial activity are limited. This study evaluated, under in vitro conditions, the impact of storage temperature on the physicochemical stability and antimicrobial activity of reconstituted cefovecin sodium. Samples were stored at room temperature (25 ± 2°C), refrigerated conditions (4°C), or frozen conditions (-20°C) for up to 12 weeks. Visual appearance, absorbance at 360 nm, minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) against E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and cefovecin sodium concentrations determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) were assessed over time. Room temperature storage resulted in progressive discoloration, increased absorbance, elevated MIC values, and a significant decrease in drug concentration at later time points. Refrigerated storage delayed these changes, although mild increases in absorbance and MIC values were descriptively observed at later time points. In contrast, frozen storage preserved physicochemical properties, antimicrobial activity, and measured drug concentrations throughout the study period. These findings demonstrate that storage temperature influences the stability and in vitro antimicrobial activity of reconstituted cefovecin sodium in a condition-dependent manner. The results provide experimental reference data under controlled laboratory conditions and do not support clinical use outside the manufacturer's approved storage instructions.
The parasite Dioctophyme renale is a nematode that infects carnivores and often causes total and irreversible destruction of renal tissue. In cases of early diagnosis, nephrotomy is an alternative for renal preservation. This report describes the first laparoscopic nephrotomy performed without ischemia in the treatment of a female dog with renal dioctophymosis, using an ultrasonic scalpel for hemorrhage control. The technique stood out for its precision in simultaneous renal parenchyma incision and coagulation, eliminating the need for temporary blood flow interruption to the organ. It allowed the removal of a 32 cm D. renale from inside the kidney. This approach minimized the risks associated with ischemia-reperfusion injury, proving particularly advantageous in cases with partial preservation of renal parenchyma. Postoperatively, the patient exhibited a reduction in the size of the parasitized kidney and normalization of urinary parameters in urinalysis and blood biochemistry, confirming the technique’s success. The use of the ultrasonic scalpel proved safe, efficient, and promising as a tool in the minimally invasive surgical management of renal diseases. This technique represents a significant advancement in the treatment of dioctophymosis with renal preservation.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common diseases in companion animals, but empirical antibiotic treatments without culture often lead to recurrence and resistance. Vagococcus species are rarely reported as pathogens in animals, and Vagococcus lutrae has not previously been described in dogs. We report the first case of V. lutrae-associated cystitis in a dog in Türkiye. An 8-year-old female English Setter developed persistent dysuria and hematuria after surgery for pelvic trauma. Despite multiple antibiotic treatments (enrofloxacin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid), no clinical improvement was observed. On presentation, hematology indicated leukocytosis with regenerative anemia, and ultrasonography revealed bladder wall thickening and intraluminal hyperechoic material consistent with cystitis. Urine obtained by cystocentesis appeared dark red, alkaline (pH 9), and contained struvite crystals and urothelial cells. Urine culture obtained by cystocentesis yielded a pure growth of Gram-positive cocci identified as V. lutrae using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Antibiotic susceptibility testing showed resistance to commonly used antimicrobials, including amoxicillin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, and gentamicin, but susceptibility to daptomycin, vancomycin, and teicoplanin. Supportive therapy was initiated; however, the patient died on the third day of treatment. This case suggests the potential pathogenic relevance of V. lutrae in dogs and emphasizes the importance of culture and sensitivity testing in recurrent or treatment-resistant UTIs to guide appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
This study aimed to evaluate the sedative effects of acepromazine and dexmedetomidine in dogs and their influence on propofol requirements for anesthetic induction, electrocardiographic findings, heart rate and arterial blood pressure. Twenty-one healthy mixed-breed dogs were included in the study. Dogs were randomly assigned to one of 3 protocols (n = 7): dexmedetomidine (2 µg/kg IM) (GD); dexmedetomidine (2 µg/kg IM) and acepromazine (0.02 mg/kg IM) (GAD); or acepromazine (0.02 mg/kg IM) followed 15 minutes later by dexmedetomidine (2 µg/kg IM) (GAD15). Sedation scores and cardiorespiratory variables were recorded at baseline (T0), 15 minutes after the first drug administration (T15), and 15 minutes after the second drug administration (T30). Propofol induction dose was recorded. All protocols produced moderate sedation, with no significant differences among groups. Heart rate decreased significantly at T30 compared with T0 in GD but not in GAD or GAD15. SAP decreased significantly at T30 compared with T0 in GAD15. Propofol induction doses (mean ± SD) were 3.8 ± 1.1 mg/kg (GD), 3.6 ± 0.5 mg/kg (GAD), and 3.1 ± 0.5 mg/kg (GAD15), with no significant differences. Retching occurred in 2 dogs (GD and GAD), and none in GAD15. The combination of acepromazine and dexmedetomidine provided mild to moderate sedation but did not reduce propofol requirements compared with dexmedetomidine alone.
Tracheal hypoplasia is a congenital abnormality associated with brachycephalic airway syndrome, resulting in a generalized decrease in tracheal lumen diameter (TLD). Radiographic techniques to assess tracheal narrowing have been described; however, comparisons of tracheal diameter among breeds of bulldogs have not been made. The objective of this study was to investigate potential differences in standardized tracheal lumen diameters among bulldog breeds at different regions of the trachea and determine whether breed-specific reference values should be established. Medical records and thoracic radiographs were reviewed for clinically asymptomatic American, English, and French bulldogs. TLDs at three defined, well-established regions (caudal cervical, thoracic inlet, and intrathoracic trachea) were measured and standardized using manubrium length (ML) and thoracic inlet distance (Ti-D). One hundred dogs met the inclusion criteria and were represented by 33 American bulldogs, 33 English bulldogs, and 34 French bulldogs. No significant difference was found in the average manubrium tracheal index (M-TI) among bulldog breeds. A significant difference was found (p < 0.001) in the average thoracic inlet tracheal index (Ti-TI) among breeds, with the difference attributed to American bulldogs versus French and English bulldogs. This discrepancy might be attributed to the thoracic vertebral anomaly (TVA) associated with bulldogs. MT-I may be a reliable alternative to Ti-TI due to the potential influence of TVA on Ti-D.
Objective: To compare the postoperative analgesic efficacy of the Open Approach Transversus Abdominis Plane block with the traditional ultrasound-guided technique in female dogs undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy. Study design: Prospective, randomized, controlled, blinded clinical study. Animals: Ten female dogs, weighing 3-5 kg, aged between 1-6 years. Methods: Animals were divided into two groups to receive either the ultrasound-guided TAP block (G-US, n = 5) or the open-approach TAP block (G-OA, n = 5). Pre-medication with methadone (0.3 mg/kg) was followed by propofol induction (4 mg/kg IV) and isoflurane maintenance. The TAP block was performed using 0.25% bupivacaine at a total dose of 0.3 mL/kg, administered as 0.15 mL/kg per side of the abdomen. Postoperative monitoring for 24 hours assessed physiological parameters and pain using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Short Form of the Glasgow Composite Pain Scale (CMPS-SF). Data were analyzed using ANOVA, Chi-square, and Shapiro-Wilk tests, with significance set at P < 0.05. Results: The Open Approach technique significantly reduced block execution time (p < 0.001) compared to the US-guided approach. No significant differences were observed between groups in postoperative pain scores (VAS, p = 0.054; CMPS-SF, p = 0.922) or additional analgesic requirements (p > 0.999). Conclusion and clinical relevance: The Open Approach TAP block is a safe and effective alternative to the ultrasound-guided technique for dogs undergoing OVH. It provides comparable analgesia while reducing procedural time and eliminating ultrasound-related risks. Its simplicity may enhance clinical accessibility, making it a valuable addition to veterinary locoregional anesthesia.
Objective To describe the combination of sub-anesthetic doses of ketamine along with ultrasound-guided abdominal anesthesia for a cat with acute abdominal pain. Case or series summary A domestic short-haired male neutered cat with a history of anorexia leading to elevated serum liver enzyme activities presented with progressive signs of severe acute abdominal pain related to acute pancreatitis. After two weeks of hospitalization and progressive worsening of signs, the cat received three subcutaneous doses of ketamine (0.5 mg/kg ea.) in association with ultrasound-guided locoregional anesthesia for abdominal pain relief. This analgesic protocol significantly improved the response to the medical treatment and abbreviated the period of hospitalization. New or unique information provided For hospitalized patients who are sometimes unresponsive to opioid-based analgesic protocols commonly included in the medical treatment, ketamine, mostly indicated for the treatment of somatic and/or chronic pain, can be considered as an alternative for visceral pain. US-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is a minimally invasive and feasible locoregional anesthesia technique that does not require heavy sedation or general anesthesia in debilitated patients. To date, the combination of sub-anesthetic subcutaneous doses of ketamine associated with the TAP block for pain management in cats with acute abdominal pain has not been reported in the veterinary literature.
