Pathophysiology and presentation Immune mediated polyarthritis may be more common than recognised, as clinical signs can sometimes be subtle. Generally, it is defined as neutrophilic inflammation affecting two or more joints and is an example of a type-III hypersensitivity reaction. Immune system stimulation leads to formation of immune complexes, which circulate and deposit in the […]
Introduction Wobbler syndrome is a progressive, heterogenous, neurological disease characterised by a variety of signs including paraparesis, tetra-paresis, ataxia, thoracic limb lameness and neck pain.
History A nine–year-old, female, neutered German Shepherd Dog presented for assessment of right pelvic limb lameness. The owner reported progressive lameness since the patient had fallen 10 days previously. The referring veterinarian’s radiographs revealed marked degenerative changes to the right hip
Introduction Following on from the last article in our Winter 2012 edition of Downs Diary – Assessment of the Spinal Patient – we thought it might be useful to outline the various treatment options for some of the more commonly encountered causes of spinal disease as even though you may not perform spinal surgery yourself, clients will […]
Small Breed Modified Maquet Procedure now available at Downs Veterinary Referrals Given the success of the Modified Maquet Procedure (MMP – tibial tuberosity advancement) in larger breeds (see Review Article: The Modified Maquet Procedure ), we have recently invested in the necessary instrumentation and range of implants specifically designed for smaller patients (<12kg). This investment enables […]
History A 12-month-old, entire, female Bassett Hound, body weight 23kg, presented for stabilisation of closed, left tibia and fibula fractures, sustained after jumping from the owner’s car.
Goals of Assessment What questions should your assessment be able to answer? An owner might be expected to inquire: what is wrong with their pet? what are the various treatment options? what do these options entail, in terms of morbidity, risks, length and extent of rehabilitation, costs and (in the case of referral) travel involved? is […]
An eight-week-old, female Cocker Spaniel was referred with tetraparesis. The owner reported that the dog had collided with a stair-gate three days prior. She had initially appeared unaffected, although veterinary assessment at the time had revealed cervical spinal pain. 48 hours later she developed generalised ataxia with increased guarding of the neck. Progressive tetraparesis became […]
In recent years, there have been significant strides in the development of and access to advanced imaging in veterinary medicine. Techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) and fluoroscopy were once the preserve of human medical establishments or research facilities. However, several factors, namely: – a rising awareness amongst veterinarians and clients […]
After extensive trials in both the human and veterinary referral fields a new method of wound closure is now available and in use here at Downs Veterinary Referrals.
History fig.1 – DV radiograph of chest showing bilateral pneumothorax A three-year-old, entire, female Labrador Retriever presented to the referring veterinarian for assessment of progressive orthopnoea with associated vomiting over several months.
Background Tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) is a well-established alternative to tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) for neutralising cranial thrust in cruciate deficient canine stifles.
Mast cell tumours (MCT) are among the most common canine cutaneous neoplasms seen in practice.
History A 15-year-old male, neutered DSH cat presented with a two-week history of right, unilateral epistaxis with concurrent swelling of the nasal planum (see fig. 1).
A 2.2kg, twelve-month-old, male, entire Yorkshire Terrier was presented for assessment of generalised ataxia.