B. de la Puerta - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by B. de la Puerta

Research paper thumbnail of Clinical findings, surgical treatment and outcome in dogs with parotid duct ectasia: 14 cases (2010‐2023)

Journal of Small Animal Practice

ObjectivesTo describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, surgical treatment and outc... more ObjectivesTo describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, surgical treatment and outcome of dogs diagnosed with parotid duct ectasia.Materials and MethodsMedical records of dogs diagnosed with parotid duct ectasia between 2010 and 2023 at six small animal referral hospitals were retrospectively reviewed. Outcome was assessed by contacting the owners or referring veterinarians.ResultsFourteen dogs were included. Lateral facial swelling was the most common clinical presentation. CT revealed a tortuous cavitary tubular fluid‐filled structure consistent with a dilated parotid duct in all dogs. Surgical treatment included marsupialisation of the parotid duct papilla, surgical exploration of the duct alone, parotid duct marsupialisation with surgical exploration of the duct, parotidectomy or en‐bloc parotid duct resection. The aetiology of parotid duct ectasia was not established in 13 of 14 dogs. In one case, a foreign body was retrieved from the duct. No recurrence of clinic...

Research paper thumbnail of Bile acid stimulation test for the evaluation of congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt attenuation by cellophane banding in 9 cats

BSAVA Congress Proceedings 2017, Apr 1, 2017

Research paper thumbnail of PDF(94K) - Wiley Online Library

Research paper thumbnail of Complications and outcome of cats with congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts treated with thin film: Thirty‐four cases (2008‐2017)

Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2019

Background: Congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (CEHPSS) are rare in cats. Outcome after... more Background: Congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (CEHPSS) are rare in cats. Outcome after attenuation of CEHPSS with thin film has been described in a small number of cases. Objectives: To describe the clinical presentation, postoperative complications, and outcome of cats treated with thin film to attenuate CEHPSS. Animals: Thirty-four cats with CEHPSS were identified from the database of 3 institutions over 9 years. Methods: Retrospective study. Medical records were reviewed to identify cats with a diagnosis of a CEHPSS that underwent surgical attenuation. Congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts were suspected from clinical signs, clinicopathologic findings, and diagnostic imaging, and confirmed at exploratory laparotomy. Cats treated with thin film band attenuation were included. Postoperative complications and follow-up were recorded. Results: Complications were recorded in 11 of 34 cats. Deaths related to CEHPSS occurred in 6 of 34; 4 cats did not survive to discharge. Persistent seizures were the cause of death in 4 cats. Seizures were recorded in 8 of 34 cats after surgery; all these cats received preoperative antiepileptic drugs. Serum bile acid concentrations normalized in 25 of 28 of the cats for which data was available. Three cats had persistently increased serum bile acid concentrations and underwent a second exploratory laparotomy. One had a patent shunt, the other 2 had multiple acquired portosystemic shunts. Median follow-up was 8 months (0.5-84 months). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts attenuation using thin film in cats carries a good short-and mid-term prognosis if they survive the postoperative period. Seizures were the most common cause of death.

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence, Risk Factors and Outcome of Postoperative Tibial Tuberosity Fractures in Dogs Undergoing Triple Tibial Osteotomy Surgery

Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology, 2019

Objective The aim of this study was to report the prevalence and to identify the risk factors ass... more Objective The aim of this study was to report the prevalence and to identify the risk factors associated with postoperative tibial tuberosity fracture following a triple tibial osteotomy. This article also evaluates the outcome of these patients treated conservatively. Materials and Methods Medical records of 100 dogs (113 limbs) that underwent triple tibial osteotomy procedure were evaluated. Information obtained included signalment, preoperative, immediate postoperative and 6-week postoperative radiographic findings, intraoperative and postoperative complications. Long-term outcome was assessed using an owner questionnaire. Results Postoperative tibial tuberosity fracture was identified in 25/113 stifles. The only variable associated with the presence or absence of postoperative tibial tuberosity fracture within 6 weeks of surgery was postoperative cortical hinge width (CHW) or an indexed value of CHW to tibial width (TW). Using either a cut-off value of CHW of ≥ 5.5 mm or a cut-o...

Research paper thumbnail of Salivary gland disease in dogs and cats

In Practice, 2020

Background: In general practice it is common to be presented with patients that suffer from saliv... more Background: In general practice it is common to be presented with patients that suffer from salivary gland disease, particularly salivary sialoceles. This disease affects all salivary glands, although most commonly the sublingual salivary gland. There are various treatment approaches that should be considered. The second most common salivary gland disease is salivary gland neoplasia, particularly adenocarcinomas – surgery can be curative when the tumour is confined to the capsule; however, in many cases, these tumours are more invasive and local reoccurrence can occur. Aim of the article: This article discusses the different treatments for salivary sialoceles, paying particular attention to the different approaches for the surgical resection of the mandibular and sublingual salivary gland. It also discusses the surgical treatment methods for parotid and zygomatic sialoceles, as well as salivary gland neoplasia and other less common pathologies.

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of median sternotomy closure‐related complication rates using orthopedic wire or suture in dogs: A multi‐institutional observational treatment effect analysis

Research paper thumbnail of Ventral stabilization of thoracic kyphosis through bilateral intercostal thoracotomies using SOP (String of Pearls) plates contoured after a 3-dimensional print of the spine

Veterinary Surgery, 2018

Objective: To describe a novel vertebral body stabilization and report its outcome in dogs with t... more Objective: To describe a novel vertebral body stabilization and report its outcome in dogs with thoracic kyphosis and secondary myelopathy. Study design: Case series. Animals: Six pugs with thoracic kyphosis and secondary myelopathy. Methods: Medical records (2012-2017) of dogs with chronic progressive pelvic limb ataxia and ambulatory proprioceptive paraparesis due to thoracic kyphosis were reviewed. Dogs were evaluated via MRI and computed tomography. A 3-dimensional print of the kyphotic vertebral segment was used to precontour the SOP (String of Pearls) plates. Bilateral double, dorsal intercostal thoracotomies were performed to place precontoured SOP on the vertebral bodies. Long-term (6-16 months) clinical outcome was determined on the basis of neurological scoring (NS) and owner questionnaire. Results: The only intraoperative complication consisted of a lung laceration due to preexisting adhesions. Postoperative complications included seroma formation (n 5 2) and incidental radiographic evidence of screw breakage (n 5 2). NS at presentation ranged between 2 and 4 and improved to 1 at long-term follow-up in all dogs but 1 (NS 5 2). All owners felt that their dog had excellent quality of life at follow-up. Conclusion: In spite of the challenging local anatomy, all dogs undergoing vertebral stabilization with SOP placement experienced a good clinical outcome. Clinical significance: Stabilization of vertebral bodies with precontoured SOP placed through bilateral thoracotomies may be considered as a treatment option for dogs with thoracic kyphosis and secondary myelopathy. 1 | I NTRO DUC TI ON Malformed vertebral bodies may result from a disruption of the ossification centers during embryonic or fetal development and can cause angulation deformities of the spine, including kyphosis. This dorsal curvature of the spine can

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of Osteotomy Accuracy and Rotational and Angular Alignment for Cranial Closing Wedge Ostectomy Performed With and Without Alignment Aids

Veterinary Surgery, 2014

To (1) investigate the use of K-wires as alignment aids for cranial closing wedge ostectomy (CCWO... more To (1) investigate the use of K-wires as alignment aids for cranial closing wedge ostectomy (CCWO) and (2) evaluate their effect on osteotomy accuracy and angular/rotational alignment. Cadaveric study. Cadaveric pelvic limbs (n = 20). CCWO was performed with and without alignment aids on 20 cadaveric pelvic limbs. CT scans were performed pre- and post-operatively to evaluate tibial torsion and valgus/varus deformity. Digital photographs of the ostectomized bone wedges were used to assess divergence of the 2 osteotomies, and the area of the medial and lateral aspects measured to assess osteotomy angulation within the dorsal plane. Osteotomy divergence angle, the difference between the area of the medial and lateral aspects of the ostectomized wedges, and the difference between the pre- and post-operative angles of valgus/varus deformity were all significantly smaller for the alignment aid group. The difference in pre- and post-operative tibial torsion was not significantly different between groups. K-wires can be used successfully as alignment aids during CCWO and help to create a significantly more orthogonal osteotomy. This allows a significant reduction in the difference between the preoperative and postoperative angles of valgus or varus, which may reduce the risk of developing a clinically important iatrogenically introduced valgus/varus deformity postoperatively.

Research paper thumbnail of Uterine horn torsion in a non-gravid cat

Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 2008

An 11-year-old female domestic shorthair cat with a previous history of having been spayed, prese... more An 11-year-old female domestic shorthair cat with a previous history of having been spayed, presented with signs of abdominal distension, lethargy and anorexia of 1 week's duration. On the basis of radiological and ultrasonographic findings a tentative diagnosis of pyometra was made. Exploratory coeliotomy revealed a 900° left horn uterine torsion along the longitudinal axis. Ovariohysterectomy was performed without correction of the torsion. To the authors' knowledge this is the first case report of uterine torsion in a non-gravid cat.

Research paper thumbnail of Surgical diseases of the genital tract in male dogs 2. Penis and prepuce

In Practice, 2012

While castration is the most common surgery carried out on the genitals of male dogs in first-opi... more While castration is the most common surgery carried out on the genitals of male dogs in first-opinion practice, there are several other, less common, surgical procedures that are performed to treat various conditions affecting the male reproductive tract. This article discusses the surgical diseases and treatment of the scrotum, testes and epididymides of dogs. A second article, to be published in the March issue of In Practice, will cover the surgical techniques used to manage disorders of the penis and prepuce.

Research paper thumbnail of The incidence of surgical site dehiscence following full-thickness gastrointestinal biopsy in dogs and cats and associated risk factors

Journal of Small Animal Practice, 2017

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to 1) document the incidence of surgical site dehis... more Objectives: The objectives of this study were to 1) document the incidence of surgical site dehiscence after full-thickness gastrointestinal biopsy in dogs and cats and 2) identify potential risk factors. Methods: Data relating to dogs and cats undergoing full-thickness gastrointestinal biopsy were reviewed retrospectively following submission of a completed questionnaire by 12 referral institutions. Outcome measures were definite dehiscence, possible dehiscence (clinical records suggestive of dehiscence but not confirmed), suspected dehiscence (definite and possible combined) and death within 14 days. Logistic regression was planned for analysis of association of dehiscence with low pre-operative serum albumin, biopsy through neoplastic tissue, biopsy alongside another major abdominal surgical procedure and biopsy of the colon. Results: Of one hundred and seventy two cats, 2 (1.2%) had definite dehiscence and 4 (2.3%) had possible dehiscence. Low pre-operative serum albumin was significantly associated with definite dehiscence in univariable analysis, and with suspected dehiscence and death within 14 days in univariable analysis, but all odds ratios had wide 95% confidence intervals. A histopathological diagnosis of neoplasia was significantly associated with death within 14 days in univariable analysis. Of one hundred and ninety-five dogs, 2 (1.0%) had definite dehiscence and 3 (1.5%) had possible dehiscence. There was no association between any outcome measure and the putative risk factors. Clinical significance: This study reports a low incidence of dehiscence following full-thickness gastrointestinal biopsy. This information may aid decision making when determining the appropriateness of such a biopsy in individual cases but only when considered alongside the potentially life-threatening consequences of dehiscence.

Research paper thumbnail of Is the caudal auricular axial pattern flap robust? A multi-centre cohort study of 16 dogs and 12 cats (2005 to 2016)

Journal of Small Animal Practice, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Session 3: Soft tissue surgery and critical care

BSAVA Congress 2021: Clinical abstract presentations, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Outcome of caudal superficial epigastric axial pattern flaps in dogs and cats: 70 cases (2007‐2020)

Journal of Small Animal Practice

Research paper thumbnail of Superficial temporal axial pattern flap for facial reconstruction of skin defects in dogs and cats

OBJECTIVES Report the use, complications and outcome of the superficial temporal axial pattern fl... more OBJECTIVES Report the use, complications and outcome of the superficial temporal axial pattern flap (STA) when used for closure of skin defects localised to the maxillofacial region in dogs and cats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Multi-centre retrospective cohort study. Medical records of dogs and cats treated with a STA flap for closure of skin defects were reviewed. Information regarding signalment, reason for axial pattern flap use, flap size, flap healing, postoperative complications including need for surgical revision and overall outcome were collected. RESULTS Nineteen patients were included: nine dogs and 10 cats. Indications for the STA flap included closure of defects following excision of tumours (18/19, 94.7%) and fungal granuloma resection (1/19, 5.2%). 100% flap survival occurred in 17 of 19 flaps (89.4%). Postoperative complications occurred in eight of 19 flaps (42.1%). A major complication of full thickness partial necrosis of the flap occurred in one of 19 cases (5.2%), wh...

Research paper thumbnail of Long‐term clinical outcomes following surgery for spontaneous pneumothorax caused by pulmonary blebs and bullae in dogs – a multicentre ( AVSTS Research Cooperative) retrospective study

Journal of Small Animal Practice

OBJECTIVES To report the clinical characteristics and recurrence rate of spontaneous pneumothorax... more OBJECTIVES To report the clinical characteristics and recurrence rate of spontaneous pneumothorax secondary to pulmonary blebs and bullae following surgical management in a large cohort of dogs. To explore potential risk factors for recurrence and describe outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for cases with spontaneous pneumothorax managed surgically between 2000 and 2017. Signalment, clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging, surgery, histopathology findings and patient outcomes were recorded. Follow-up was performed via patient records and telephone contact. RESULTS Records of 120 dogs with surgically treated pneumothorax were identified and reviewed, with 99 cases appropriate for exploratory statistical analysis. Median follow-up was 850 days (range: 9-5105 days). Two- and 5-year survival rates were 88.4% and 83.5%, respectively. There was recurrence in 14 of 99 dogs (14.1%) with adequate follow-up, with a median time to recurrence of 25 days (1-1719 days). Univariable Cox regression analysis suggested increased risk for recurrence in giant breeds (hazard ratio = 11.05, 95% confidence interval: 2.82-43.35) and with increasing bodyweight (HR = 1.04, 95% confidence interval: 1.00-1.09). Of 14 dogs with recurrence, six were euthanased, two died of causes related to pneumothorax and six underwent further treatment, of which five were resolved. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Long-term survival for dogs with surgically managed spontaneous pneumothorax was good and associated with a low risk of recurrence. Giant breed dogs and increased bodyweight were the only variables identified as possible risk factors for recurrence. The outcome for dogs with recurrence undergoing a second intervention was also favourable.

Research paper thumbnail of Use of CT Sinography in 27 Dogs and 1 Cat

graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2016 and completed a General/Surgical Internship a... more graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2016 and completed a General/Surgical Internship at London Vet Specialists in 2017. After working as an emergency veterinarian for two years, she went on to complete the Small Animal Rotating Internship at the Royal Veterinary College in 2020 and is currently working towards a postgraduate certificate in Small Animal Surgery. Dr James Guillem CertAVP (VDI) MRCVS After graduation in 2010 in Madrid, James worked at several first opinion practices in the UK. In 2018 he joined the University of Liverpool Small Animal Teaching Hospital to start his small animal diagnostic imaging residency.

Research paper thumbnail of Use of CT sinography in 27 dogs and one cat

OBJECTIVES To describe the clinical findings, imaging findings and outcome in patients in which C... more OBJECTIVES To describe the clinical findings, imaging findings and outcome in patients in which CT sinography was performed, and assess to what degree this technique adds information about the extent of a tract or increases the accuracy of diagnosis of foreign bodies on CT. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective review of medical records of 27 dogs and one cat with draining tracts that had CT sinography. Pre- and post-intravenous (IV) contrast CT series were compared with CT sinography in each patient. RESULTS Median duration of clinical signs before referral was 85 days (range 2 to 1478 days). The most common reported clinical signs were swelling (14/28, 50%) and regional pain (5/28, 18%). CT sinography revealed a more extensive tract than post-IV contrast CT in 21% cases. On post-IV contrast CT, 31% of foreign bodies were detected compared to 23% on CT sinography. All four foreign bodies detected by CT were observed in the non-contrast images. Surgery was performed after CT in 22 (79...

Research paper thumbnail of Outcome of superficial brachial axial pattern flaps used to close skin defects in dogs: 16 cases (1996‐2019)

Journal of Small Animal Practice

Research paper thumbnail of Clinical findings, surgical treatment and outcome in dogs with parotid duct ectasia: 14 cases (2010‐2023)

Journal of Small Animal Practice

ObjectivesTo describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, surgical treatment and outc... more ObjectivesTo describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, surgical treatment and outcome of dogs diagnosed with parotid duct ectasia.Materials and MethodsMedical records of dogs diagnosed with parotid duct ectasia between 2010 and 2023 at six small animal referral hospitals were retrospectively reviewed. Outcome was assessed by contacting the owners or referring veterinarians.ResultsFourteen dogs were included. Lateral facial swelling was the most common clinical presentation. CT revealed a tortuous cavitary tubular fluid‐filled structure consistent with a dilated parotid duct in all dogs. Surgical treatment included marsupialisation of the parotid duct papilla, surgical exploration of the duct alone, parotid duct marsupialisation with surgical exploration of the duct, parotidectomy or en‐bloc parotid duct resection. The aetiology of parotid duct ectasia was not established in 13 of 14 dogs. In one case, a foreign body was retrieved from the duct. No recurrence of clinic...

Research paper thumbnail of Bile acid stimulation test for the evaluation of congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt attenuation by cellophane banding in 9 cats

BSAVA Congress Proceedings 2017, Apr 1, 2017

Research paper thumbnail of PDF(94K) - Wiley Online Library

Research paper thumbnail of Complications and outcome of cats with congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts treated with thin film: Thirty‐four cases (2008‐2017)

Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2019

Background: Congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (CEHPSS) are rare in cats. Outcome after... more Background: Congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (CEHPSS) are rare in cats. Outcome after attenuation of CEHPSS with thin film has been described in a small number of cases. Objectives: To describe the clinical presentation, postoperative complications, and outcome of cats treated with thin film to attenuate CEHPSS. Animals: Thirty-four cats with CEHPSS were identified from the database of 3 institutions over 9 years. Methods: Retrospective study. Medical records were reviewed to identify cats with a diagnosis of a CEHPSS that underwent surgical attenuation. Congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts were suspected from clinical signs, clinicopathologic findings, and diagnostic imaging, and confirmed at exploratory laparotomy. Cats treated with thin film band attenuation were included. Postoperative complications and follow-up were recorded. Results: Complications were recorded in 11 of 34 cats. Deaths related to CEHPSS occurred in 6 of 34; 4 cats did not survive to discharge. Persistent seizures were the cause of death in 4 cats. Seizures were recorded in 8 of 34 cats after surgery; all these cats received preoperative antiepileptic drugs. Serum bile acid concentrations normalized in 25 of 28 of the cats for which data was available. Three cats had persistently increased serum bile acid concentrations and underwent a second exploratory laparotomy. One had a patent shunt, the other 2 had multiple acquired portosystemic shunts. Median follow-up was 8 months (0.5-84 months). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts attenuation using thin film in cats carries a good short-and mid-term prognosis if they survive the postoperative period. Seizures were the most common cause of death.

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence, Risk Factors and Outcome of Postoperative Tibial Tuberosity Fractures in Dogs Undergoing Triple Tibial Osteotomy Surgery

Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology, 2019

Objective The aim of this study was to report the prevalence and to identify the risk factors ass... more Objective The aim of this study was to report the prevalence and to identify the risk factors associated with postoperative tibial tuberosity fracture following a triple tibial osteotomy. This article also evaluates the outcome of these patients treated conservatively. Materials and Methods Medical records of 100 dogs (113 limbs) that underwent triple tibial osteotomy procedure were evaluated. Information obtained included signalment, preoperative, immediate postoperative and 6-week postoperative radiographic findings, intraoperative and postoperative complications. Long-term outcome was assessed using an owner questionnaire. Results Postoperative tibial tuberosity fracture was identified in 25/113 stifles. The only variable associated with the presence or absence of postoperative tibial tuberosity fracture within 6 weeks of surgery was postoperative cortical hinge width (CHW) or an indexed value of CHW to tibial width (TW). Using either a cut-off value of CHW of ≥ 5.5 mm or a cut-o...

Research paper thumbnail of Salivary gland disease in dogs and cats

In Practice, 2020

Background: In general practice it is common to be presented with patients that suffer from saliv... more Background: In general practice it is common to be presented with patients that suffer from salivary gland disease, particularly salivary sialoceles. This disease affects all salivary glands, although most commonly the sublingual salivary gland. There are various treatment approaches that should be considered. The second most common salivary gland disease is salivary gland neoplasia, particularly adenocarcinomas – surgery can be curative when the tumour is confined to the capsule; however, in many cases, these tumours are more invasive and local reoccurrence can occur. Aim of the article: This article discusses the different treatments for salivary sialoceles, paying particular attention to the different approaches for the surgical resection of the mandibular and sublingual salivary gland. It also discusses the surgical treatment methods for parotid and zygomatic sialoceles, as well as salivary gland neoplasia and other less common pathologies.

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of median sternotomy closure‐related complication rates using orthopedic wire or suture in dogs: A multi‐institutional observational treatment effect analysis

Research paper thumbnail of Ventral stabilization of thoracic kyphosis through bilateral intercostal thoracotomies using SOP (String of Pearls) plates contoured after a 3-dimensional print of the spine

Veterinary Surgery, 2018

Objective: To describe a novel vertebral body stabilization and report its outcome in dogs with t... more Objective: To describe a novel vertebral body stabilization and report its outcome in dogs with thoracic kyphosis and secondary myelopathy. Study design: Case series. Animals: Six pugs with thoracic kyphosis and secondary myelopathy. Methods: Medical records (2012-2017) of dogs with chronic progressive pelvic limb ataxia and ambulatory proprioceptive paraparesis due to thoracic kyphosis were reviewed. Dogs were evaluated via MRI and computed tomography. A 3-dimensional print of the kyphotic vertebral segment was used to precontour the SOP (String of Pearls) plates. Bilateral double, dorsal intercostal thoracotomies were performed to place precontoured SOP on the vertebral bodies. Long-term (6-16 months) clinical outcome was determined on the basis of neurological scoring (NS) and owner questionnaire. Results: The only intraoperative complication consisted of a lung laceration due to preexisting adhesions. Postoperative complications included seroma formation (n 5 2) and incidental radiographic evidence of screw breakage (n 5 2). NS at presentation ranged between 2 and 4 and improved to 1 at long-term follow-up in all dogs but 1 (NS 5 2). All owners felt that their dog had excellent quality of life at follow-up. Conclusion: In spite of the challenging local anatomy, all dogs undergoing vertebral stabilization with SOP placement experienced a good clinical outcome. Clinical significance: Stabilization of vertebral bodies with precontoured SOP placed through bilateral thoracotomies may be considered as a treatment option for dogs with thoracic kyphosis and secondary myelopathy. 1 | I NTRO DUC TI ON Malformed vertebral bodies may result from a disruption of the ossification centers during embryonic or fetal development and can cause angulation deformities of the spine, including kyphosis. This dorsal curvature of the spine can

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of Osteotomy Accuracy and Rotational and Angular Alignment for Cranial Closing Wedge Ostectomy Performed With and Without Alignment Aids

Veterinary Surgery, 2014

To (1) investigate the use of K-wires as alignment aids for cranial closing wedge ostectomy (CCWO... more To (1) investigate the use of K-wires as alignment aids for cranial closing wedge ostectomy (CCWO) and (2) evaluate their effect on osteotomy accuracy and angular/rotational alignment. Cadaveric study. Cadaveric pelvic limbs (n = 20). CCWO was performed with and without alignment aids on 20 cadaveric pelvic limbs. CT scans were performed pre- and post-operatively to evaluate tibial torsion and valgus/varus deformity. Digital photographs of the ostectomized bone wedges were used to assess divergence of the 2 osteotomies, and the area of the medial and lateral aspects measured to assess osteotomy angulation within the dorsal plane. Osteotomy divergence angle, the difference between the area of the medial and lateral aspects of the ostectomized wedges, and the difference between the pre- and post-operative angles of valgus/varus deformity were all significantly smaller for the alignment aid group. The difference in pre- and post-operative tibial torsion was not significantly different between groups. K-wires can be used successfully as alignment aids during CCWO and help to create a significantly more orthogonal osteotomy. This allows a significant reduction in the difference between the preoperative and postoperative angles of valgus or varus, which may reduce the risk of developing a clinically important iatrogenically introduced valgus/varus deformity postoperatively.

Research paper thumbnail of Uterine horn torsion in a non-gravid cat

Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 2008

An 11-year-old female domestic shorthair cat with a previous history of having been spayed, prese... more An 11-year-old female domestic shorthair cat with a previous history of having been spayed, presented with signs of abdominal distension, lethargy and anorexia of 1 week's duration. On the basis of radiological and ultrasonographic findings a tentative diagnosis of pyometra was made. Exploratory coeliotomy revealed a 900° left horn uterine torsion along the longitudinal axis. Ovariohysterectomy was performed without correction of the torsion. To the authors' knowledge this is the first case report of uterine torsion in a non-gravid cat.

Research paper thumbnail of Surgical diseases of the genital tract in male dogs 2. Penis and prepuce

In Practice, 2012

While castration is the most common surgery carried out on the genitals of male dogs in first-opi... more While castration is the most common surgery carried out on the genitals of male dogs in first-opinion practice, there are several other, less common, surgical procedures that are performed to treat various conditions affecting the male reproductive tract. This article discusses the surgical diseases and treatment of the scrotum, testes and epididymides of dogs. A second article, to be published in the March issue of In Practice, will cover the surgical techniques used to manage disorders of the penis and prepuce.

Research paper thumbnail of The incidence of surgical site dehiscence following full-thickness gastrointestinal biopsy in dogs and cats and associated risk factors

Journal of Small Animal Practice, 2017

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to 1) document the incidence of surgical site dehis... more Objectives: The objectives of this study were to 1) document the incidence of surgical site dehiscence after full-thickness gastrointestinal biopsy in dogs and cats and 2) identify potential risk factors. Methods: Data relating to dogs and cats undergoing full-thickness gastrointestinal biopsy were reviewed retrospectively following submission of a completed questionnaire by 12 referral institutions. Outcome measures were definite dehiscence, possible dehiscence (clinical records suggestive of dehiscence but not confirmed), suspected dehiscence (definite and possible combined) and death within 14 days. Logistic regression was planned for analysis of association of dehiscence with low pre-operative serum albumin, biopsy through neoplastic tissue, biopsy alongside another major abdominal surgical procedure and biopsy of the colon. Results: Of one hundred and seventy two cats, 2 (1.2%) had definite dehiscence and 4 (2.3%) had possible dehiscence. Low pre-operative serum albumin was significantly associated with definite dehiscence in univariable analysis, and with suspected dehiscence and death within 14 days in univariable analysis, but all odds ratios had wide 95% confidence intervals. A histopathological diagnosis of neoplasia was significantly associated with death within 14 days in univariable analysis. Of one hundred and ninety-five dogs, 2 (1.0%) had definite dehiscence and 3 (1.5%) had possible dehiscence. There was no association between any outcome measure and the putative risk factors. Clinical significance: This study reports a low incidence of dehiscence following full-thickness gastrointestinal biopsy. This information may aid decision making when determining the appropriateness of such a biopsy in individual cases but only when considered alongside the potentially life-threatening consequences of dehiscence.

Research paper thumbnail of Is the caudal auricular axial pattern flap robust? A multi-centre cohort study of 16 dogs and 12 cats (2005 to 2016)

Journal of Small Animal Practice, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Session 3: Soft tissue surgery and critical care

BSAVA Congress 2021: Clinical abstract presentations, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Outcome of caudal superficial epigastric axial pattern flaps in dogs and cats: 70 cases (2007‐2020)

Journal of Small Animal Practice

Research paper thumbnail of Superficial temporal axial pattern flap for facial reconstruction of skin defects in dogs and cats

OBJECTIVES Report the use, complications and outcome of the superficial temporal axial pattern fl... more OBJECTIVES Report the use, complications and outcome of the superficial temporal axial pattern flap (STA) when used for closure of skin defects localised to the maxillofacial region in dogs and cats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Multi-centre retrospective cohort study. Medical records of dogs and cats treated with a STA flap for closure of skin defects were reviewed. Information regarding signalment, reason for axial pattern flap use, flap size, flap healing, postoperative complications including need for surgical revision and overall outcome were collected. RESULTS Nineteen patients were included: nine dogs and 10 cats. Indications for the STA flap included closure of defects following excision of tumours (18/19, 94.7%) and fungal granuloma resection (1/19, 5.2%). 100% flap survival occurred in 17 of 19 flaps (89.4%). Postoperative complications occurred in eight of 19 flaps (42.1%). A major complication of full thickness partial necrosis of the flap occurred in one of 19 cases (5.2%), wh...

Research paper thumbnail of Long‐term clinical outcomes following surgery for spontaneous pneumothorax caused by pulmonary blebs and bullae in dogs – a multicentre ( AVSTS Research Cooperative) retrospective study

Journal of Small Animal Practice

OBJECTIVES To report the clinical characteristics and recurrence rate of spontaneous pneumothorax... more OBJECTIVES To report the clinical characteristics and recurrence rate of spontaneous pneumothorax secondary to pulmonary blebs and bullae following surgical management in a large cohort of dogs. To explore potential risk factors for recurrence and describe outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for cases with spontaneous pneumothorax managed surgically between 2000 and 2017. Signalment, clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging, surgery, histopathology findings and patient outcomes were recorded. Follow-up was performed via patient records and telephone contact. RESULTS Records of 120 dogs with surgically treated pneumothorax were identified and reviewed, with 99 cases appropriate for exploratory statistical analysis. Median follow-up was 850 days (range: 9-5105 days). Two- and 5-year survival rates were 88.4% and 83.5%, respectively. There was recurrence in 14 of 99 dogs (14.1%) with adequate follow-up, with a median time to recurrence of 25 days (1-1719 days). Univariable Cox regression analysis suggested increased risk for recurrence in giant breeds (hazard ratio = 11.05, 95% confidence interval: 2.82-43.35) and with increasing bodyweight (HR = 1.04, 95% confidence interval: 1.00-1.09). Of 14 dogs with recurrence, six were euthanased, two died of causes related to pneumothorax and six underwent further treatment, of which five were resolved. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Long-term survival for dogs with surgically managed spontaneous pneumothorax was good and associated with a low risk of recurrence. Giant breed dogs and increased bodyweight were the only variables identified as possible risk factors for recurrence. The outcome for dogs with recurrence undergoing a second intervention was also favourable.

Research paper thumbnail of Use of CT Sinography in 27 Dogs and 1 Cat

graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2016 and completed a General/Surgical Internship a... more graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2016 and completed a General/Surgical Internship at London Vet Specialists in 2017. After working as an emergency veterinarian for two years, she went on to complete the Small Animal Rotating Internship at the Royal Veterinary College in 2020 and is currently working towards a postgraduate certificate in Small Animal Surgery. Dr James Guillem CertAVP (VDI) MRCVS After graduation in 2010 in Madrid, James worked at several first opinion practices in the UK. In 2018 he joined the University of Liverpool Small Animal Teaching Hospital to start his small animal diagnostic imaging residency.

Research paper thumbnail of Use of CT sinography in 27 dogs and one cat

OBJECTIVES To describe the clinical findings, imaging findings and outcome in patients in which C... more OBJECTIVES To describe the clinical findings, imaging findings and outcome in patients in which CT sinography was performed, and assess to what degree this technique adds information about the extent of a tract or increases the accuracy of diagnosis of foreign bodies on CT. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective review of medical records of 27 dogs and one cat with draining tracts that had CT sinography. Pre- and post-intravenous (IV) contrast CT series were compared with CT sinography in each patient. RESULTS Median duration of clinical signs before referral was 85 days (range 2 to 1478 days). The most common reported clinical signs were swelling (14/28, 50%) and regional pain (5/28, 18%). CT sinography revealed a more extensive tract than post-IV contrast CT in 21% cases. On post-IV contrast CT, 31% of foreign bodies were detected compared to 23% on CT sinography. All four foreign bodies detected by CT were observed in the non-contrast images. Surgery was performed after CT in 22 (79...

Research paper thumbnail of Outcome of superficial brachial axial pattern flaps used to close skin defects in dogs: 16 cases (1996‐2019)

Journal of Small Animal Practice