ABSTRACT Purpose: This study compared, through biomechanical evaluation under ventral flexion load, four surgical techniques for ventral stabilization of the atlantoaxial joint in dogs. Methods: In total, 28 identical atlantoaxial joint models were created by digital printing from computed tomography images of a dog, and the specimens were divided into four groups of seven. In each group, a different technique for ventral stabilization of the atlantoaxial joint was performed: transarticular lag screws, polyaxial screws, multiple screws and bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate–PMMA), and atlantoaxial plate. After the stabilization technique, biomechanical evaluation was performed under ventral flexion load, both with a predefined constant load and with a gradually increasing load until stabilization failure. Results: All specimens, regardless of stabilization technique, were able to support the predefined load without failing. However, the PMMA method provided significant more rigidity (p ≤ 0.05) and also best resisted the gradual increase in load, supporting a significantly higher maximum force (p ≤ 0.05). There was no statistical difference in flexural strength between the transarticular lag screws and plate groups. The polyaxial screws method was significantly less resistant to loading (p ≤ 0.05) than the other groups. Conclusions: The PMMA technique had biomechanical advantages in ventral atlantoaxial stabilization over the other evaluated methods.

RESUMO: A haste intramedular bloqueada representa excelente opção para abordagem cirúrgica de fraturas em ossos longos na medicina veterinária. Todavia, falhas decorrentes principalmente de “folga” presente na interface da haste com os parafusos foram relatadas. O presente estudo teve como objetivo testar e comparar mecanicamente, por cargas de compressão axial, dois novos modelos de haste intramedular bloqueada de ângulo estável com orifícios roscados, sendo uma delas uniplanar e outra multiplanar com orifícios distais dispostos ortogonalmente. Vinte e um corpos de prova confeccionados em ácido polilático (PLA) foram utilizados para implantação das hastes intramedulares bloqueadas, divididos em três grupos: Haste bloqueada convencional (G1); haste bloqueada nova de ângulo estável com orifícios dispostos em único plano (G2); haste bloqueada nova de ângulo estável em dois planos, com o penúltimo orifício em 90 graus dos demais (G3). Utilizou-se ensaios biomecânicos por carga de compressão axial, cíclicos e destrutivos, para comparação entre eles. Todos mostraram deformação plástica nos parafusos após testes destrutivos, tanto proximais como distais, sendo mais intensa no grupo 1. Os grupos 2 e 3 das hastes de ângulo estável suportaram cargas superiores em relação ao G1 em todos os testes realizados (P<0.05). As hastes novas não diferiram estatisticamente entre si (P>0,05). A hipótese inicial de que os novos modelos proporcionariam maior estabilidade foi confirmada, entretanto não foi demonstrada diferenças entre eles. O sistema de bloqueio roscado dos parafusos nas hastes permitiu valores elevados de resistência nos testes realizados, mostrando-se efetivo e, potencialmente aplicável em situações clínicas reais.

ABSTRACT: The interlocking nail represents an excellent option as a surgical approach to treat fractures in long bones in veterinary medicine. However, failures were reported mainly due to a slack present in the interface of the rod with the screws. The present study tested and mechanically compare axial compression loads of two novel models of stable angle interlocking nails with threaded holes. Among the two models, one was uniplanar and the other was multiplanar with orthogonally arranged distal holes. Twenty-one specimens made of polylactic acid were used for the implantation of interlocking nail´s rods, divided into three groups: conventional interlocking nail (G1), novel interlocking nail with a stable angle with holes arranged in a single plane (G2), and novel interlocking nail with a stable angle in two planes, with the penultimate hole at 90 degrees from the others (G3). Biomechanical tests were performed using axial, cyclic, and destructive compression load for comparison between them. All the specimens showed plastic deformation in the screws after destructive tests, in both proximal and distal sides, being highly intense in G1. G2 and G3 of the stable angle rods supported higher loads than G1 in all tests performed (P<0.05). The novel stems did not differ statistically from each other (P>0.05). The initial hypothesis that the novel models would provide increased stability was confirmed; however, no differences were demonstrated between them. The screw locking system on the rods allowed high resistance values in the tests performed, proving to be effective and potentially applicable in real clinical situations.

RESUMO: A laminectomia dorsal é realizada com frequência no tratamento de compressões medulares ou estenose do canal vertebral cervical. No entanto, complicações relevantes têm sido descritas em cães. Considerando que ainda não há entendimento completo da necessidade de estabilização cirúrgica complementar após a realização de uma ou múltiplas laminectomias na região cervical, o objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a resistência e amplitude de movimento (ADM) da coluna cervical submetida à laminectomia Funkquist B entre a sexta e a sétima vértebras em cães. Quarenta e quatro colunas vertebrais cervicais (C2-T1) de cães, com peso médio de 26,2 ± 3,8 kg, foram selecionadas por meio de radiografia e tomografia computadorizada. Quatro grupos experimentais (n = 11) foram estabelecidos de acordo com o teste mecânico realizado: dois grupos controle (flexão e extensão controle) e dois grupos laminectomia (flexão e extensão laminectomia). Os resultados numéricos da carga máxima para medir a resistência e ADM das colunas dos dois grupos de controle e dos dois grupos de laminectomia foram comparados. Os grupos de laminectomia apresentaram menores valores de carga máxima, independentemente do teste mecânico realizado (P < 0,001). A ADM não foi influenciada pela laminectomia, tipo de teste mecânico (flexão ou extensão ventral) ou sua interação (P < 0,05). Não houve interação entre o efeito do fator de laminectomia, sim ou não, ou o efeito do teste mecânico na flexão ou extensão ventral (P < 0,05). A laminectomia cervical dorsal Funkquist B entre C6 e C7 diminui a resistência mecânica com uma força de carga suprafisiológica, mas não altera a ADM, sugerindo que pode ser usada sem estabilização mecânica adicional em cães.

ABSTRACT: Dorsal laminectomy is routinely performed for spinal cord compressions or stenosis of the cervical vertebral canal. However, despite good results, relevant complications have been described in dogs. Considering the incomplete understanding of the necessity for complementary surgical stabilization after performing laminectomies in the cervical region, this study compared the resistance and range of motion (ROM) of the cervical spinal column subjected to Funkquist B laminectomy between the sixth and seventh vertebrae in dogs. Forty-four cervical vertebral columns (C2-T1) of dogs, with an average weight of 26.2±3.8 kg, were selected using radiography and computed tomography. Four experimental groups (n=11) were established according to the mechanical test: two control groups (flexion and extension control) and two laminectomy groups (flexion and extension laminectomies). Numerical results of the maximum load for measuring the resistance and ROM of the columns of the two control groups and the two laminectomy groups were compared. The laminectomy groups showed a lower maximum load, regardless of the mechanical test performed (P<0.001). The ROM was not influenced by laminectomy, the type of mechanical test (ventral flexion or extension), or its interaction (P<0.05). There was no interaction between the effect of the laminectomy factors (yes or no) and the effect of the mechanical tests for ventral flexion or extension (P<0.05). In conclusion, Funkquist B dorsal cervical laminectomy between C6 and C7 decreases mechanical resistance with a supraphysiological loading force but does not alter the ROM, suggesting that it can be used without additional mechanical stabilization in dogs.

RESUMO: Os traumas ósseos desencadeiam resposta inflamatória aguda e consequentemente alteram a concentração sérica das proteínas de fase aguda (PFA), podendo essas representarem um parâmetro para avaliação da evolução do processo inflamatório relacionado à cicatrização óssea, assim como complicações. Objetivou-se avaliar a inter-relação da mensuração de PFAs com a repação óssea em coelhos submetidos à ostectomia parcial do rádio. Foram utilizados 22 coelhos, machos, jovens (160 a 180 dias) e peso médio (3,8 ± 0,3). Para acompanhamento da evolução do processo inflamatório foram realizados hemograma completo e mensuração de albumina, ceruloplasmina, haptoglobina, proteína C reativa e transferrina, além do acompanhamento radiológico. Foi observado a melhor correlação da haptoglobina e da transferrina junto ao processo inflamatório e achados radiológicos frente às demais PFAs mensuradas. A haptoglobina apresentou pico máximo 24 horas do pós-operatório e a transferrina após 36 horas, entretanto, essa última já mostrou indícios de diminuição nas primeiras 6 horas do pós-cirúrgico, antecipadamente à resposta leucocitária. Nas condições em que o presente estudo foi realizado, a mensuração das proteínas de fase aguda mostrou-se factível. Das proteínas estudadas, a haptoglobina e transferrina foram as que mostraram maior correlação com o processo inflamatório da cicatrização óssea. Estudos adicionais são necessários para determinar a sensibilidade das proteínas de fase aguda como previsores de complicações do tratamento das fraturas.

ABSTRACT: Bone trauma triggers an acute inflammatory response, which can alter the serum concentration of acute-phase proteins (PFA). We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PFA measurement as a laboratory biomarker for inflammation related to bone regeneration. A partial ostectomy of the right radius was performed on 22 young male rabbits. The complete blood count, albumin, ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, C-reactive protein, and transferrin levels were recorded and correlated with the radiographic evolution of bone healing. Statistically the best correlations with the inflammatory process and radiological findings were reported with haptoglobin and transferrin compared to the other measured PFAs. Haptoglobin and transferrin showed a maximum peak 24 and 36 hours after surgery, respectively. Transferrin displayed signs of decrease in the first 6 hours after surgery, in advance of the leukocyte response. The measurement of acute-phase proteins proved to be viable, considering the conditions in which the present study was carried out. Among all variables studied, haptoglobin and transferrin showed best correlation with the inflammatory process of bone healing. Additional studies are needed to determine the sensitivity of acute-phase proteins as predictors of complications in the treatment of fractures.

ABSTRACT Purpose To evaluate clinical outcome following minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) associated with percutaneous transplantation of allogeneic adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSC) at the tibial fracture site in dogs. Methods Thirty-six dogs presenting with nonarticular complete tibial fracture were included in this study. All fractures were treated by the same MIPO technique. The animals were divided in group 1 (n = 20) received a percutaneous application of 3 × 106 AD-MSC at the fracture site and group 2 (n = 16) did not receive any adjuvant treatment. Postoperative radiographic examinations were made at 15, 30, 60, 90 and 120 days. Results Fifty-eight percent of the patients were classified as skeletally immature. The median weight of the animals was 18.8 kg. The mean radiographic union time differed statistically between the AD-MSC group (28.5 days) and the control group (70.3 days). Sixty percent of dogs in group 1 and 56.25% of the group 2 were considered immature. Conclusions The use of allogeneic AD-MSC cell therapy and MIPO is a safe, viable and effective technique for promoting bone healing in nonarticular tibial fractures in dogs.

RESUMO: Objetivou-se determinar o canal flare index (CFI) de quatro raças específicas de cães, utilizando-se duas regiões femorais distintas como referência. Foram analisadas 35 radiografias de articulações coxofemorais de cães das raças Golden Retriever (GGR), Pastor Alemão (GPA), Labrador Retriever (GLR) e Rottweiler (GR), de ambos os sexos, configurando 70 unidades experimentais submetidas ao cálculo do CFI. Determinaram-se os valores objetivo (CFIob) e subjetivo (CFIsub) do CFI de cada unidade experimental de acordo com a referência anatômica utilizada para o cálculo. Houve diferença significativa do CFIob entre as raças Golden Retriever e Pastor Alemão (1,68 ± 0,16 e 1,49 ± 0,08), e do CFIsub entre as raças Golden Retriever, Pastor Alemão e Rottweiler (2,09 ± 0,31, 1,86 ± 0,11 e 1,84 ± 0,18). A forma subjetiva de mensuração apresentou valores maiores que a forma objetiva (GGR: 2,09 ± 0,31; GPA: 1,86 ± 0,11; GLR: 2,07 ± 0,12; GR: 1,84 ± 0,18). Os valores de CFI de cada raça se apresentaram similares, sugerindo haver determinado padrão racial. Houve diferença significativa na avaliação interobservadores, tanto do CFIsub quanto CFIob, em todas as raças. A análise do CFI identificou padrões morfológicos do fêmur proximal nas diferentes raças. Os resultados indicaram a necessidade de padronização dos referenciais anatômicos utilizados para o cálculo do CFI, uma vez que houve relevância estatística entre as diferentes mensurações entre os observadores.

ABSTRACT: This study determined the canal flare index (CFI) of four dog breeds using two distinct femoral regions as a reference. Thirty-five radiographs of the hip joints of Golden Retrievers (GRG), German Shepherds (GSG), Labrador Retrievers (LRG), and Rottweilers (RG) of both sexes were used. Seventy experimental units were submitted to CFI calculation. Objective (CFIob) and subjective (CFIsub) values of the CFI of each experimental unit were determined according to the anatomical reference used for the calculation. A significant difference in the CFIob between the Golden Retriever and German Shepherd breeds (1.68 ± 0.16 and 1.49 ± 0.08), and in the CFIsub between Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, and Rottweiler breeds (2.09 ± 0.31, 1.86 ± 0.11, and 1.84 ± 0.18) was reported. The subjective form of measurement showed higher values than the objective form (GRG: 2.09 ± 0.31; GSG: 1.86 ± 0.11; LRG: 2.07 ± 0.12; RG: 1.84 ± 0.18). The CFI values of each breed were similar, suggesting a certain racial pattern. A significant difference in the interobserver assessment for both CFIsub and CFIob, in all races was observed. The CFI analysis identified morphological patterns of the proximal femur in the different races. Results indicated the need for standardization of the anatomical references used to calculate the CFI because there were statistical differences among the measurements among the observers.

RESUMO: Este trabalho descreve a fratura patológica da cabeça do femur (displasia fiseal) em quatro machos (três raças mistas e um Bengal), com idade média de 16 meses, que foram tratados com ostectomia da cabeça e colo femorais. Três gatos eram castrados e um inteiro. Todos apresentaram leve claudicação intermitente nos membros pélvicos. O deslocamento da epífise femoral e a reabsorção do colo femoral estavam presentes, a excisão da cabeça e colo femoral foi realizada em todos os casos. O exame histológico mostrou focos de compacteção e fibrose trabecular com deposição de tecido conjuntivo fibroso, permeado por tecidos de granulação, consistentes com o suposto diagnóstico. A função dos membros melhorou em todos os paciente entre dois a quatro semanas pós-operatório. O diagnóstico da displasia fiseal pe desafiador e o tratamento é diferente das fraturas traumáticas agudas. A excisão de cabeça e colo femoral é considerada uma boa alternativa nesses pacientes.

ABSTRACT: This report described pathological fracture of the femoral head (physeal dysplasia) in four male cats (three mixed breed and one Bengal), with an average age of 16 months, treated by an ostectomy of the femoral head and neck. Three cats were neutered and one entire. All presented with mild intermittent lameness in the pelvic limbs. Displacement of the femoral epiphysis and resorption of the femoral neck were present and excision of the femoral head and remaining neck was performed in all cases. Hstological examination showed mild foci of compaction and trabecular fibrosis with deposition of fibrous connective tissue, permeated by granulation tissues, consistent with the original diagosis. Limb function improved in all patients from 2 to 4 weeks postoperatively. Diagnosis of physeal dysplasia is challenging and treatment is different from acute traumatic fractures. Femoral head and neck excision was considered a good alternative in these patients.

ABSTRACT Purpose To use a 3D printed poly (L-lactide) acid (PLLA) and hydroxyapatite (HA) composite as a bone substitute for reconstruction of a critical bone defect in the radius of rabbits. Methods A 1.5 cm ostectomy was performed in the radial diaphysis of 60 New Zealand white rabbits. The rabbits were divided into three groups according to surgical treatment of the bone defect (group I – control, group II – bone graft, group III – 3D PLLA). Each group was divided into four subgroups with different radiographic and histopathologic evaluation times (T1 – 15 days, T2 – 30 days, T3 – 60 days, T4 – 90 days). Results The implant group had greater clinically lameness (p = 0.02), edema (p = 0.007), pain (p = 0.04) and more complications at the surgical site (p = 0.03). Histologically, this group showed greater congestion (p = 0.04), hemorrhage (p = 0.04) and inflammation. Osteogenesis was microscopically similar between days (p = 0.54) and treatments (p = 0.17), even though radiographically, more effective bone healing occurred in the graft group (II), with more callus and bone bridge formation. Conclusions The customization of a 3D PLLA/HA scaffold was successful. However, in animals receiving the polymer-ceramic composite less bone callus and bone bridge was formed compared to the graft group.

RESUMO: Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar radiograficamente as alterações no alinhamento da tíbia nos planos frontal e sagital em cães submetidos à osteossíntese minimamente invasiva com placa (MIPO) sem o auxílio de intensificadores de imagem. Foram incluídas e avaliadas radiografias de cães com fraturas completas da tíbia não articulares submetidos a MIPO, sem o auxílio de intensificador de imagem transoperatório e/ou associação de implantes. Os ângulos mecânicos tibiais (mMPTA, mMDTA, mCaPTA e mCrDTA) foram mensurados por três avaliadores. Os dados obtidos pela média de todas as avaliações foram comparados com resultados de estudos previamente publicados. Vinte e sete animais foram incluídos no estudo. A média e desvio padrão das alterações angulares foram os seguintes: mMPTA= 2,54° ± 3,10 (-1,1º a 8,7º); mMDTA= 0,03º ± 0,16 (-3,44º a 0,79º); mCaPTA= 37º ± 4,29 (-6,23º a 14,87º); e mCrDTA= 8,25 ° ± 5,53 (-0,2º a 17,28º). Houve uma correlação negativa entre “mCaPTA” e “mCrDTA”. A realização de MIPO em tíbia sem o uso de intensificadores de imagem e associação de implantes pode causar alterações angulares, o que pode levar a deformidades clinicamente relevantes após a cicatrização óssea.

ABSTRACT: This study assessed radiographically changes in tibial alignment in the frontal and sagittal planes in dogs that underwent minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) without the aid of image intensifiers. Radiographs of dogs with complete non-articular tibial fractures submitted to MIPO were included and evaluated, without the aid of a transoperative image intensifier and / or an association of implants. The tibial mechanical angles (mMPTA, mMDTA, mCaPTA and mCrDTA) were measured by three evaluators. The data obtained were compared with results from previously published studies. Twenty-seven animals were included in the study. The mean and standard deviation of the angular changes were as follows: mMPTA, 2.54° ± 3.10 (-1.1º to 8.7º); mMDTA, 0.03º ± 0.16 (-3.44º to 0.79º); mCaPTA, 37º ± 4.29 (-6.23º to 14.87º); and mCrDTA, 8.25° ± 5.53 (-0.2º to 17.28º). There was a negative correlation between “mCaPTA” and “mCrDTA”. MIPO of the tibia without using image intensifiers and implant association can potentially cause angular changes, which can lead to clinically relevant deformities after bone healing.

ABSTRACT Purpose To investigate the applicability of piezosurgery for cervical ventral slot (CVS), comparing it with the conventional technique of using high-speed burs for bone wear. Methods Thirty rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were divided into two treatment groups (T1 and T2) corresponding to CVS between C3-C4. In T1, the surgery was performed with piezoelectric apparatus, and in T2 with high-speed burs. The evaluated parameters were: duration of each stage of surgery, temperature variations during CVS, visibility of the surgical field, intra and postoperative complications, and anesthetic monitoring. At 14, 28, and 56 postoperative days, five animals from each treatment group were submitted for histopathological study of the surgical site. Results Compared with T2, T1 had more precise bone cut, and better visibility of the operative field, although it required longer total surgical time (p = 0.02) and triggered a greater number of intraoperative complications (p < 0.01), microscopic lesions in the spinal cord (p < 0.05), and transient neurological deficits in the postoperatively (p < 0.05). Conclusions It is necessary to perform surgical planning and have several tips of the piezoelectric instrument available for the safe use of the piezoelectric device in neurosurgery.

ABSTRACT Purpose To evaluate the biomechanical properties of a novel total hip replacement femoral stem. Methods Eight pairs of femurs from dog cadavers were used. The femurs were separated into different groups. A novel femoral stem with a convex proximal portion (Stem B) was biomechanically evaluated and compared to awell-known veterinary collared stem (Stem A). Femoral stems were inserted into the contralateral femurs from the same dog, forming 16 constructs. A flexo-compression load was applied on the axial axis of each sample. Maximum strength, deflection, stiffness, and energy absorption were analysed. Results Group B constructs showed significantly higher values (p ? 0.05) for the variables, except stiffness. The mean maximum strength was 1,347 ± 357 N for Group A and 1,805 ± 123 N for Group B (p ? 0.0069). The mean deflection was5.54 ± 2.63 mm for Group A and 10.03 ± 3.99 mm for Group B (p ? 0.0056). For the energy variable, the force was 6,203 ± 3,488 N/mm for Group A and 12,885 ± 5,056 N/mm for Group B (p ? 0.0054). Stem B had greater maximum strength, deflection, and energy. Conclusions The new stem was effective in neutralizing the impact of axial flexion-compression stresses during biomechanical tests in cadaveric models.

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the use of demineralized bone matrix of caprine origin in experimental bone defects of the tibia in New Zealand rabbits. Methods Fragments of the tibia diaphysis were collected aseptically from clinically healthy goats. The bones were sectioned into 1 cm fragments and stored at -20°C for subsequent hydrochloric acid (HCL) demineralization. A 70 mg portion of DBMc was used to fill the experimental bone defects. Twenty-four female adult New Zealand rabbits were divided into 2 groups: the MG (matrix group, left tibia) and CG (control group, right tibia). Additionally, they were separated into 4 groups with 6 animals, according to the period of analysis (15, 30, 60 and 90 days postoperatively). Using microCT, volumetric parameters were evaluated: bone volume, relationship between bone volume and total volume, bone surface area, relationship between bone surface area and total volume, number of trabeculae, trabecular thickness and trabecular separation. Results There was a statistically significant difference (P<0.05) between groups considering bone volume (BV) and bone:total volume (BV/TV), on 15, 30 and 90 days postoperatively. Control group showed a statistically significant superiority (P < 0.05) considering the mean of the variables bone surface (BS), number of trabeculae (Tb.N) and between bone surface and total volume (BS/TV) at 15 and 90 days. Conclusions Caprine demineralized bone matrix was safe and tolerable. No signs of material rejection were seen macroscopically. It is an alternative for the treatment of bone defects when autologous graft is not available or in insufficient quantities.

Abstract Purpose: To analyze the anesthetic drugs interference with wound healing when used in the surgical bed. Methods: Macro and microscopic aspects of healing of surgical wounds were evaluated after instillation of topical anesthetics without vasoconstrictor or saline solution 0.9% as control in the transsurgical period. Thirty dogs, males and females were divided into two experimental groups. In both groups, two circular punch lesions of 6 mm diameter were performed in the abdomen. In group 1, lidocaine was instilled in one of the lesions and saline solution in the contralateral lesion. In group 2 the procedure was repeated with the use of bupivacaine. The macroscopic assessment of the lesions was performed on the first, third and tenth postoperative day. The excisional biopsy was performed on the tenth day and the samples were submitted for histopathological examination. Results: The macroscopic analysis had a significant difference between groups. Microscopic analysis was not significant between groups. Conclusions: The topical application of lidocaine and bupivacaine in the surgical wound is feasible and it does not influence skin healing. The benefit of such a practice, which has been the subject of other studies, seems to outweigh the risks.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar, retrospectivamente, a frequência das fraturas de fêmur em cães e gatos, na rotina de um hospital escola, determinando a classificação, métodos de fixação, complicações e desfecho. No total, 61 animais, 50 (82,0%) cães e 11 (18,0%) gatos, apresentaram fraturas de fêmur submetidas a osteossíntese. Sessenta e duas fraturas de fêmur foram avaliadas neste estudo. As fraturas simples localizadas na epífise distal (n=25) foram as mais frequentes (P=0,0001). Para osteossíntese das fraturas proximais, foram utilizados pinos intramedulares em associação a cerclagem e banda de tensão. Nas fraturas diafisárias, foram utilizadas placas ósseas e parafusos, dois pinos intramedulares (isolados ou com cerclagem) e fixador externo Tie-In e, nas fraturas distais, pinos intramedulares de Rush modificados, pinos cruzados e fixador externo Tie-In. Comparando-se a frequência de complicações que necessitaram reintervenção após osteossíntese, entre as localizações das fraturas, independente da técnica empregada, houve uma diferença significativa (P=0,0253) entre as diafisárias (31,25%) e distais (7,14%). Conclui-se que as fraturas epifisárias distais foram as mais frequentes na rotina de um hospital escola e, quando tratadas com pinos intramedulares de Rush modificados ou pinos cruzados, apresentaram menor frequência de complicações para a consolidação.

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the frequency of femur fractures in dogs and cats in the routine of a school hospital, determining their classification, fixation methods, complications, and outcomes. A total of 61 animals, 50 (82.0%) dogs and 11 (18.0%) cats, had femoral fractures that were submitted to osteosynthesis. Sixty-two femoral fractures were evaluated. Single fractures in the distal epiphysis (n=25) were the most frequent (P=0.0001). Intramedullary pins were used in association with cerclage and tension band for osteosynthesis in proximal fractures. In diaphyseal fractures, bone plates and screws, two intramedullary pins (insulated or with cerclage) and Tie-In configuration were used. In distal fractures, modified Rush intramedullary pins, cross pins and Tie-In configuration were used. Comparing complication frequencies at fracture sites that required reintervention after osteosynthesis, a significant difference was observed (P=0.0253) between the diaphyseal (31.25%) and distal (7.14%) fractures independent of the technique used. We concluded that distal epiphyseal fractures were the most frequent in the routine of a school hospital. Distal epiphyseal fractures presented a lower frequency of complications for consolidation when treated with modified Rush intramedullary pins or crossed pins.

RESUMO: Comparou-se o efeito analgésico de Arnica em relação à morfina ou cetoprofeno, no período pós-operatório, de 50 gatas submetidas à ovariossalpingohisterectomia (OSH). As gatas foram divididas em cinco grupos (n=10) e tratadas aleatoriamente 30 minutos antes da cirurgia por 72 horas com 1ml de Arnica 30D por via subcutânea (SC) (GA30SC); Arnica 30D por via oral (VO) (GA30VO); Arnica 6D VO (GA6VO); 0,1mg kg-1 de morfina SC (GM) TID ou 2mg kg-1 de cetoprofeno SC (GC) antes e 1mg kg-1 após a cirurgia SID. Foram avaliadas a sedação e a dor pós-operatória, por meio de escala analógica visual (EAV), escala de contagem variável (ECV) e hiperalgesia, esta última pelo estesiômetro. Quando os escores da ECV e EAV atingiram 33% do valor máximo, realizou-se resgate analgésico com 0,3mg kg-1 de morfina por via intramuscular (IM). Observou-se ocorrência de vômito, defecação, micção, alteração de peso e a cicatrização. Exceto nos animais tratados com morfina, não houve vômito. Não houve diferença entre os grupos para defecação, micção, peso e cicatrização. A hiperalgesia foi observada apenas nos momentos do resgate analgésico. Um animal de GC e um de GM receberam resgate analgésico, o que diferiu dos grupos GA30SC, GA30VO e GA6VO, onde, respectivamente, 4, 4 e 5 animais necessitaram resgate analgésico. Conclui-se que o cetoprofeno e a morfina foram mais eficazes que a Arnica e que, quanto à Arnica, não houve diferença nem entre as dinamizações e entre as vias SC e oral para analgesia de gatas submetidas à OSH.

ABSTRACT: The postoperative analgesic effect of Arnica montana (Arnica) was compared to morphine and ketoprofen in 50 cats following hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (HSO). Cats were randomly allocated to five groups (n=10) and were treated 30 minutes before surgery and over 72 hours with 1ml of Arnica 30x per subcutaneous (SC) route (GA30SC); Arnica 30x per oral transmucosal route (P.O.) (GA30PO); Arnica 6x P.O. (GA6PO); morphine 0.1mg kg-1 SC (GM) SID or ketoprofen 2mg kg-1 SC (GK) before and 1mg kg-1 after surgery. Sedation and postoperative pain were assessed by means of a dynamic and interactive visual analogue scale (DIVAS) and variable count scale (VCS) and hyperalgesia using an esthesiometer. Whenever the VAS and VCS scores attained 33% of the maximum value, rescue analgesia was performed with morphine 0.3mg kg-1 per the intramuscular (IM) route. Other variables assessed were vomiting, defecation, urination, body weight and wound healing. Vomiting only occurred in animals treated with morphine. The groups did not differ in defecation, urination, body weight or wound healing. Hyperalgesia was detected only on the occasions that the criterion for rescue analgesia was met. One animal in GK and one in GM required rescue analgesia, differing from groups GA30SC, GA30PO and GA6PO, in which 4, 4 and 5 animals, respectively, required rescue analgesia. It can be concluded that ketoprofen and morphine were more efficacious than Arnica and that there was no difference among the various potencies and routes of administration of Arnica for postoperative analgesia in cats undergoing HSO.