JOURNAL OF REMOUNT VETERINARY CORPS · MAJ GEN PS NARWAL, MVSc, NDEHMS, FNAVS Associate Editor BRIG...

Vol 55 No 1

EditorMAJ GEN PS NARWAL, MVSc, NDEHMS, FNAVS

Associate EditorBRIG MA KELKAR, MVSc, NDEHMS

Assistant EditorsCOL K ATRI, MVSc, NDEHMS

LT COL GAGANDEEP SINGH, MVScMAJ ARI PRASATH, MVScMAJ JK MATHURIA, MVSc

All communications should be addressed to the Editore-mail : [email protected]

Jan 2016

JOURNAL OF REMOUNT VETERINARY CORPS

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Published byRVC Centre and College

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Vol 55 Half Yearly Jan 2016

JOURNAL OF REMOUNT VETERINARY CORPS

CONTENTS

1. Phenotypic Characterisation of Nilotic Cattle in Upper 02

Nile State of The Republic of South Sudan

- Lt Col P V Venkatesh Kumar and Dr AK Thiruvenkadan

2. Prevalence and 16SrRNA Gene Based Molecular 15

Characterization of Thermotolerant Campylobacters in

Dogs Attending Veterinary Practice

- Capt Iftekhar Ahmed, Dr Amit Kumar Verma, Dr Amit Kumar

and Dr Arvind Kumar Tripathi

3. Complete all Four Mid Metacarpal Fracture of working 25

Military Dog and its Surgical Management with Bridge Plating

and Thomas Splint

- Capt Ashutosh Thakur, Capt Gokarn Nishit, Col Mangal Singh

and Brig PR Venkatesh

4. Surgical Management of Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus 32

(GDV) in an Army Dog: A Case Report

- Maj Chandan Singh and Col Manoj Batra

5. Interfragmental Fixation of Bilateral Rostral Mandibular 40

Fracture with Cross-pinning in A Neonatal Mule Foal.

- Major Raghav Sharma, Brig SS Kashyap,Lt Col VikasThakur,

Major Chhabil Singh and Shrikant Pareek

6. Equine Mucocutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma and 52

its Surgical Management: A Case Study

- Col Sanjay Rawat and Brig Anil Kumar

7. Surgical Management of Umbilical Hernia in a Three 59

Month Old Male Calf: A Case Report

- Lt Col Vineet Butola and Capt Ajay Thakur

8. An Outbreak of Dermatophytosis Amongst Horse Young 64

Stock in an Organised Stud and its Control

- Lt Col Vikas Thakur, Maj Raghav Sharma and

Brig SS Kashyap

9. A Review of Intussusception in Canines 70

- Col Laxmikant Madrewar and Lt Col Mohd Adil Yaqub

EDITORIAL

The first journal for 2016 has an interesting mix of scientific

articles, review article and case reports to satiate the knowledge

quest of every field veterinarian, research scholar, veterinary

educationists and scientists. The surgical case reports are on very

contemporary, challenging and frequently encountered conditions

like Gastric Dilation and Volvulus, Squamous Cell Carcinoma,

Umbilical Hernias, Mandibular Fracture in Neonatal Foals and

Metacarpal Fracture in Military dogs. The cases have been dealt in

professional manner and reflect commitment of soldier vets to

share the professional lessons learnt with wider veterinary

fraternity.

The article on Phenotypic Characterisation of Nilotic Cattle

in South Sudan is an honest and commendable effort to preserve

and put on record the traits of cattle in war torn areas being served

by Indian soldier veterinarians. The article would benefit not only

Indian veterinary geneticists but native African veterinarians as

well.

A challenging outbreak of Dermatophytosis amongst Horse

young stock has been investigated and reported with successful

recovery ; and should prove as ready reference for veterinarians

dealing with such stubborn Dermatophytic infection. A well

researched review article on Intussusceptions in Canines gives an

insight into preventive, diagnostic and management regimens to

help modern day practitioners. Keeping in view evolving

biotechnological advances in veterinary science, an article on

SrRNA based molecular characterization of Campylobacters in

dogs is an excellent attempt to acquaint practitioners and

veterinarians serving in far flung areas, with latest developments

in this field.

The Journal of RVC endeavors to keep readers abreast

with latest diagnostic, surgical, therapeutic and scientific

advances in the dynamic discipline of Veterinary Science.

PHENOTYPIC CHARACTERISATION OF NILOTIC CATTLE IN

UPPER NILE STATE OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH SUDAN

Lt Col P V Venkatesh Kumar* and Dr AK Thiruvenkadan**

ABSTRACT

An attempt was made to study some morphological traits

and body parameters from a sample of Nilotic cattle found along

the Nile corridor in various counties of Upper Nile State in the

Republic of South Sudan. The parameters included in this study

were face length, ear length, horn length, heart girth, tail length

body length and height at withers. Measurements were taken on

30 new born, 30 male and 150 fem`ale adult cattle from 06 villages

at various regions of Upper Nile State. Nilotic cattle included in this

study were found to have predominantly white or grey coat, lyre

shaped horns, straight face, cervico-thoracic humpand well

developed dewlap. All the body measurements of Nilotic cattle

included in this study except ear length increased significantly (P >

0.01) from birth to three years and later tended to stabilise. Male

Nilotic cattle had significantly (P > 0.01) higher body

measurements than females with the exception of ear length.

Results of this study clearly indicate the strong influence of sex

and age on these body parameters.

INTRODUCTION

According to statistics from the Ministry of Agriculture,

* RVC Det Commander, INDBATT-1, United Nations Mission in South Sudan.** Professor, Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, India.

03 Journal of Remount Veterinary Corps [ Vol 55 No. 1]

Forestry, Tourism, Animal Resources, Fisheries of South Sudan

has an estimated 11.7 million cattle, 12.4 million goats and 12.1

million sheep in a nation of around 13 million people (IPNEWS,

2015). In this world's newest nation, livestock is key to food

security and to the social and economic well-being of about 80% of

the population. Even though, all types of livestock play a key role in

food security and contribute to the social and economic well-being

of the population of South Sudan, if one word alone is to be used to

describe the paramount concern of all these people, it would be

cattle. Considered by all as either a gift or a loan from God, cattle

provide almost all of the pastoralists daily needs, from food (milk,

blood, and meat), clothing, material for ropes and containers, and

dung for fuel. In addition, cattle are the primary means of

exchange, and are used in the payment of fines, to seal

friendships, and as bride wealth (or dowries, from the groom to

family of the bride). Cattle also assume ritual importance, being

dedicated and sacrificed to ancestors or spirits. Given the

importance of cattle, it is no surprise that tribes of South Sudan

have an almost sacred view of them, for they also govern people's

daily routines and society. But from economic point of view, cattle

in South Sudan are a curse. It is not a resource that benefits the

people because they are not rearing cattle for economic benefits

or for food security benefits; they are rearing it for prestige. They

just want to have many cattle so that they are respected in their

communities on account for having the largest number of livestock

in their area. As a result contribution of cattle to South Sudan

economy and export trade is negligible. The main reason is that

the Nilotic cattle are very poor milk yielders. A lactation milk yield of

1003 litre in 263 days was reported for Nilotic cows managed

indoors. Milk yield of grazing cows was around 182 litres per

annum and daily milk yield never exceeded 1.7 litre (Ageeb, 2002).

Cattle raised by South Sudanese are broadly classified into one

breed: Nilotic cattle (Benettet al., 1954). Nilotic cattle belong to the

Eastern African Sanga cattle variety and have long horns and

small hump and originated from interbreeding between Hamitic

Longhorn and the Indian Zebu (Rege, 1999). Nilotic cattle are

maintained by Shilluk, Nuer and Dinka tribes who live in the flood

plains of the Nile system of rivers in the Northern provinces of the

Republic of the South Sudan (Mason and Maule, 1960).

Judged by international standards, milk production

potential of most indigenous cattle in the Republic of South Sudan

is sub-optimal. Traditional ways of husbandry and management,

poor genetic make-up of dairy cows, poor veterinary extension

services and a long drawn civil war seem to be the main factors for

this low productivity (Abdel Rehman, 2007). Moreover, no attempt

has been made till date to upgrade milk yield of local cattle through

crossing with purebred dairy cattle breeds such as Friesians. As a

result the indigenous genetic composition is still intact (Abate,

2006). Former attitudes towards the supposedly low productivity

of indigenous breeds of African livestock have given way to a

realisation that, in most cases, such breeds have been selected for

extremely adverse environments in which survival was the main

adaptive trait. They are thus well adapted to the conditions in which

they are raised and under improved management, nutritional and

Jan 2016] Journal of Remount Veterinary Corps 04

health regimes should be able better realise their true productive

potential. Attempts to introduce exotic germplasm have led in

some cases to the extinction or near-extinction of many local types

of domestic livestock. This has led to wide spread concern for the

conservation of such strains, a concern that is motivated by the

fear that the genetic resources of indigenous breeds, and

particularly the complex of traits adapted to climatic and

environmental stress, may be lost. Recently, FAO has attempted

to establish a catalogue of indigenous breeds of Africa with

intrinsic value, the improvement and conservation of which could

lead to increased livestock output in specific situations.To design

and implement modern breeding programs for dairy cattle

improvement and conservation, it is essential to collect basic

information on biometrical measurements and determine the

genetic and non-genetic influences on milk yield and the related

traits (Sharabyet al., 1987). Further, morphological descriptions

and phenotypic characterisation are essential to make distinction

between breeds and strains and are also used to evaluate

breeding goals (Zechneret al., 2001). However, no study about

phenotypic characterisation of Nilotic cattle has been carried out

till date. Hence, an attempt has been made to study some

morphological traits and body parameters from a sample of Nilotic

cattle found along the Nile corridor in various counties of Upper

Nile State in the Republic of South Sudan.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present investigation was carried out in in the area


popularly known as the Nile Corridor located in the flood plains

surrounding the Nile, and Sobat rivers in Upper Nile State of

Republic of South Sudan. Being one of the largest states in South

Sudan, the total area of Upper Nile State is about 77,773 km. The

main ethnic groups inhabiting the Upper Nile State are; Nuer,

Dinka, Shilluk, Maban, Anuak and Koma and the type of cattle

reared by these tribes is collectively called as Nilotic cattle (Mason

and Maule, 1960). Catelyet al. (2005) have categorised the main

livestock communities into pastoralists and agro- pastoralists

although evidence from the livelihoods patterns would describe all

livestock keepers as agro-pastoralists. Animals are fully

dependent on natural grasses. Because rainfall is erratic,

especially in the Upper Nile State, the Nilotes - in common with

pastoralists all around the world - have communal rather than

individual rights to pasture and water source, whose use is

governed by intricate rotational systems and cyclical calendars.

Nonetheless, individual clans and groups tend to hold precedence

over particular areas. During the rainfall, animals are moved to the

highlands away from the swamps and flooded areas and after the

floods are over, return to their villages (Abate, 2006). The long

drawn civil war has had a serious impact on animal production in

the Republic of South Sudan. As a result, no veterinary help was

possible by the local administration to provide to the animal

owners. Hence, a veterinary detachment forms a part of the Indian

Army Battalion deployed in United Nations Mission in South

Sudan (UNMISS).


Data for this paper was obtained from livestock belonging

to different herds located at various counties of Upper Nile State

like Malakal, Melut, Renk, Bunj, and Nagdiar recorded during the

period from October 2012 to December 2013. The area is situated

at the Nile flood plains at about 390 meters above the sea level.

The climatic environment in Upper Nile State varies from humid to

semi-arid but it is always tropical and characterized by two

seasons; dry and wet seasons. The dry season starts in November

up to June, while the wet season extends from June up to October

with seasonal rainfall occurring mainly in June to late September.

Upper Nile State receives between 700 to 1,300 mm of rainfall

annually. The annual average is about 719 mm. The minimum and

maximum temperature in all seasons during 2013 averaged 0 0 0 0

21.6 C (18.5 to 26.1 C) and 35 C (30.9 to 40.3 C) respectively.

December to April is a period of almost total drought with 0

temperature reaching 45 C. Phenotypic data and animal

measurements were collected from 13 herds. A measuring tape

(cm) was used for all measures except for height at wither which

was measured with a calibrated stick with an inbuilt spirit level to

ensure accurate measurement. The external body measurements

included: face length i.e., the distance between the head poll and

muzzle, ear length from the base of the ear to its tip, horn length

from the horn base to the tip, heart girth i.e., the circumference

around the chest at the fourth rib, tail length from the base of the tail

to its tip and body length was taken from the point of the shoulder to

the pin bone. The height at withers was recorded by taking

measurement from the ground level to the highest point of withers


with the animal standing on a flat, level ground with bubble in the

spirit level is centred. Measurements were taken on 30 new born,

30 males and 150 females adult heads of cattle which were

randomly selected from 13 herds in 06 villages of Upper Nile State

vizMalakal, Melut, Renk, Bunj, and Nagdiar. The data were

tabulated and analysed on the basis of sex and age. The data were

subjected to standard statistical procedure as per Snedecor and

Cochran, 1994.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The morphological features of Nilotic cattle obtained in this

study are depicted in Table-1. The coat colours of Nilotic cattle are

predominantly white (33.89%) or grey (30.00%) in nature.

However there was a great variation in body colours with various

colours and patterns like red, black, brown, red/brown and white

patches of varying degrees as well as Black and white patches of

varying degrees. The horn length of Nilotic cattle studied varied

from short to very long length (12 cm to 65 cm). Majority of Nilotic

cattle included in this study had lyre shaped horns which were

curved upwards and pointing backwards. However, there were

other horn types like straight upwards (5%), straight lateral (2.78

%) and crescent shaped pointing forwards (9.44 %). A few animals

of a herd in Renk County (Northern part sharing borders with

Sudan) had loosely unattached horns indicating exchange of

genetic material with short horned breeds of Sudan like Kenana

and Butana. The face of Nilotic cattle is broad at forehead and thin

downwards. Pattern of face was mostly straight (82.78 %) with few


convex (10 %) and concave (7.22%) patterns. The type of hump

found in the population of Nilotic cattle included in this study was

predominantly cervico thoracic (56.11%) followed by cervical

(29.44%) and thoracic (2.22 %). Dewlap was well developed and

large in majority of the animals included in this study representing

90.56 % followed by negligible percentage of animals with

moderately developed (7.78 %) and slightly developed dewlaps

(1.67%).

The body measurements of Nilotic cattle at different ages

are depicted in Table 2. Generally all the phenotypic characters of

adult Nilotic cattle investigated in this study with the exception of

tail length were found to be higher for males. Adult males had

significantly (P > 0.01) higher body measurements than female

Nilotic cattle with the exception of ear length thereby indicating the

strong influence of sex on these parameters. All the body

measurements of Nilotic cattle included in this study except ear

length increased significantly (P > 0.01) from birth to three years.

Later the increase in body measurements were not significant (P <

0.05), tended to stabilise after 3 years of age. The three important

phenotypic characters affecting body weight of cattle viz, height at

withers, body length and chest girth increased significantly as age

progressed. This indicated that these measurements were

affected by age and the live weight of the animal. Aamiret al.(2010)

and Mwacharoet al. (2006) also reported that body measurements

were significantly influenced by age in Kenana breed of Sudan and

in two Kenyan breeds (shorthorn zebu cows) respectively. Mean


height at withers, body length and chest girth of male Nilotic

animals included in this study were 118.42 + 0.17, 121.08 + 0.04

and 141.83 + 0.27cm respectively and that of females were

113.57 + 0.20, 116.02 + 0.19 and 138.75 + 0.20 cm respectively.

However Millaet al. (2012) have reported higher heart girth (246.5

± 2.19 cm for cows and 152.5 ± 8.6 cm for intact bulls) and body

length (124.1 ± 6.5 cm for cows and 127.6 ± 6.7 cm for intact bulls)

in a population of Nilotic cattle in Malakkal Suburbia. These

differences might by due to variations in location of animals within

Upper Nile State, weight, age and feeding level of animals

included in the study.

Picture – 1 Nilotic cow with a Nilotic herd in the back ground at Nagdiar of Upper Nile State in the Republic of South Sudan


Table -1 :- Morphological characters of Adult Nilotic Cattle

S No Phenotypic Character Number of observations

Percentage (%)

1 Coat Colour n = 180

(a) White 61 33.89

(b) Cream 5 2.78

(c) Red, 14 7.78

(d) Grey 54 30.00

(e) Black 11 6.11

(f) Brown 12 6.67

(g) Red/Brown & white patches of varying degrees

15 8.33

(h)

Black & white patches of varying degrees

8 4.44

2.

Horn Shape

n = 180

(a)

Straight Upwards

9 5.00

(b)

Straight Lateral

5 2.78

(c)

Curved Upwards (Lyre Shaped) &

Pointing backwards

146 81.11

(d)

Curved Inwards (Crescent like) & Pointing forward

17 9.44

(e)

Loose Unattached horns

4 2.22

3.

Face Pattern

n = 180

(a)

Straight

149 82.78

(b) Slightly Convex

18 10.00

(c) Slightly Concave

13 7.22

4.

Dewlap

n = 180

(a)

Well Developed

163 90.56

(b)

Moderately Developed

14 7.78

(c)

Slightly Developed

3 1.67

5.

Hump Type

n = 180

(a)

Cervical

53 29.44

(b)

Cervicothoracic

101 56.11

(c)

Thoracic

4 2.22


Table – 2 :- Means and Standard errors of body measurements (cm) of Nilotic Cattle at different ages

AgeHeight at Withers in

cm

Body Length in

cm

Chest Girth in cm

Ear Length in

cm

Face Length in

cm

Tail Length in

cm

Horn Length in

cm

At Birth(n=30)

61.11 +0.11

52.32 +0.16

62.03 +0.12

11.50 +0.04

16.65 +0.04

37.26 +0.10

0

6 Months(n=30)

82.13 +0.01**

71.29 +0.01**

84.35 +0.01**

13.61 +0.01

25.61 +0.01**

48.19 + 0.01**

0.45 +0.00

One Year (n=30)

91.64 +

0.43**

78.45 +

0.92**

93.09 +

0.91**

15.00

+

0.20

29.82 +0.42**

56.36 +0.72**

2.27 +0.17

Two Years (n=30)

100.80

+

0.37**

93.67

+

0.53**

114.20

+

0.63**

16.20

+

0.12

35.13 +0.17**

65.33 +0.42**

12.80+

0.43**

3-5 Years (n=60)

114.06

+

0.20**

115.37 +

0.19**

138.61 +

0. 21**

17.53 +

0.05

42.22 +0.08**

81.48 +0.33**

31.02 +0.27**

6-8 Years (n=90)

115.31

+

0.30

117.07 +

0.41

139.26 +

0. 14

17.53 +

0.17

42.77 +0.10

83.01 +0.33

33.22 +0.48

Above 9 Years (n=30)

115.98

+

0.46

117.22 +

0.36

138.84 +

0. 24

18.10 +

0.21

43.00 +0.36

84.18 +0.27

34.51 +0.34

Overall Average for Adults

Male (n=30)

118.42 +

0.17

121.08 +

0.04

141.83 +

0.27

17.85+

0.06

43.64 +0.018

78.83 +0.10

35.07 +0.27

Female (n=150)

113.57 +

0.20**

116.02 +

0.19**

138.75+

0.20**

17.50 +

0.05

42.43 +0.08**

81.79 +0.34**

31.95 +0.27**

**Level of significance (P > 0.01) of difference in measurements from the preceeding class.


References

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:Phenotypic Characterization of Sudanese Kenana Cattle.

Research Journal of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, 5: 43-

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2. Abate, AL. (2006) : Livestock production challenges in the

range lands ecosystem of South Sudan. Paper presented at

the Workshop on Environmental Management Plan for

Post-conflict Sudan, Raha Hotel, Juba, South Sudan, ndOctober 31-November 2 , 2006.

3. Abdel Rahman, IMK. (2007):Sudanese cattle resources and

their productivity. A Review. Agricultural Reviews, 28 (4):

305-308.

4. Ageeb, A.G. 2002. What indigenous dairy breed to be

crossed with Holstein-Friesian sires for milk production in

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Husbandry. In: Agriculture in the Sudan, Tot hill, J.D. (ed.),

Oxford University Press. U.K. pp. 633- 667.

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and participation in complex emergencies: the case of

livestock interventions in South Sudan. A case study for the

Agriculture and Economics Division of the Food and

Agriculture Organisation.

7. IPNEWS (2015) South Sudan, Where Livestock


Outnumbers People and the Environment Suffers.

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easternand southern Africa, Tech. Comu. No. 14,

Commonwealth Agriculture Bureau, Farnham Royal, U.K.

pp 1151.

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of Live Body Weight from Heart Girth, Body Length and

Condition Score in Nilotic Cattle – Southern Sudan. Journal

of Animal Sciences Advances, 2(5): 453-457.

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small East African shorthorn zebu cows in Kenya. 1: Linear

body measurements. Tropical Animal Health Production,

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population. Livestock Production Science, 69: 163-177.


PREVALENCE AND 16SrRNA GENE BASED MOLECULAR

CHARACTERIZATION OF THERMOTOLERANT

CAMPYLOBACTERS IN DOGS ATTENDING VETERINARY

PRACTICE

Capt Iftekhar Ahmed*, Dr Amit Kumar Verma**, Dr Amit

Kumar***and Dr Arvind Kumar Tripathi****

ABSTRACT

Campylobacteriosis is among the leading bacterial causes

of human gastroenteritis all over the world. Campylobacter

infections in dogs deserve special comment for several reasons

related to zoonotic transmission. Therefore, the present study was

carried out to know the prevalence of Campylobacter infection in

dogs. Rectal swabs were collected from 134 dogs attending

veterinary practice from Mathura, India. The identification of the

isolates was performed with conventional as well as molecular

methods based on 16SrRNA gene amplification by PCR.

Conventional methods suggested 65 isolates to be of genus

Campylobacter. These were further confirmed by genus specific

16SrRNA gene amplification and out of 65 only 38 were confirmed

as Campylobacter with prevalence rate of 28.36% (38/134). The

high prevalence rate of campylobacters in dog faeces is of public

health significance and the study further warranted the need for

surveillance and monitoring system with respect to the prevalence

of Campylobacter in dogs and human population to establish

Veterinary Officer,877 AT Bn ASC Asst Prof, Dept of Vety Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, DUVASU, Mathura Assistant Professor, Department of Vety Microbiology, DUVASU, Mathura Assistant Professor, Department of Vety Medicine, DUVASU, Mathura

**********

correlation in the prevalence of infection in dogs and their

contacts.

INTRODUCTION

Thermotolerant Campylobacters are among the leading

causes of acute gastroenteritis in the developed countries, and are

the most commonly reported zoonotic agents (Parsons et al.,

2010; Verma et al., 2014; Holmberg et al., 2015). Although it is self-

limiting disease but sometimes severe complications like

septicemia, reactive arthritis, and Guillain-Barre syndrome occur

(Uaboi - Egbenni et al., 2011). Campylobacters are widely

distributed in nature and are present in the gastrointestinal tract of

different domestic and wild animals. Dog ownership significantly

increased the risk for pet-associated human C. jejuni / coli

infection and isolation of identical strains in humans and their pets

occurred significantly (Gras et al., 2013). The prevalence of

Campylobacter spp. is variable, ranging from 4.81%

(Andrzejewska et al., 2013) to 87% (Acke et al., 2006). The

organism has been isolated from dogs with diarrhea (Guest et al.,

2007) and from symptomless carrier dogs (Workman et al., 2005;

Acke et al., 2006). It is reported that Campylobacter spp. can be

isolated up to 56.2% from healthy dogs (Tsai et al., 2007; Acke et

al., 2009; Kumar et al., 2012a; Verma et al., 2014). There is a

dearth of information and research on the prevalence and

molecular characteristation of Campylobacters in dogs in India in

spite of the reports in developed countries as potential sources of

infections for humans. This study ascertained the prevalence and

molecular characterisation of thermotolerant Campylobacters


isolated from dogs attending veterinary practice in Mathura, India

in order to provide updated information and data on the research

subject.


Sampling

A total of 134 rectal swab specimens were collected from

dogs presented to Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex (TVCC),

Uttar Pradesh Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa

Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan

DUVASU, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Isolation of Campylobacter spp.

Single rectal swabs were first incubated in Campylobacter

Enrichment Hi VegTM Broth Base (HiMedi Mumbai) with addition

of Polymyxin B sulphate, Rifampicin, Trimethoprim and

Cycloheximide (Campylobacter selective IV, HiMedia, Mumbai) at

42- 43°C for 24hrs in 5% CO atmosphere. After incubation, the 2

inoculums was streaked onto, selective media (Campylobacter

selective agar, HiMedia, Mumbai) supplemented with 10% lysed

horse blood and reconstituted contents of Campylobacter

selective-I (HiMedia, Mumbai) containing Polymyxin B,

Vancomycin, Trimethoprim and Cephalothin and incubated for 48

hrs at 42-43°C under microaerophilic conditions with 5% CO .2

Identification of Campylobacter spp.

Characteristic Campylobacter colonies were picked up and

subjected to presumptive identification as per Skirrow and


Benjamin (1980) and Gracia et al. (1985) using Gram's Method of

staining and a battery of biochemical test including oxidase and

catalase test.

Molecular characterisation of Campylobacter spp.

All the isolates presumed to be Campylobacter based upon

conventional diagnostic methods were subjected to genomic DNA

isolation. The bacterial growth in Campylobacter Enrichment Hi

VegTM Broth was centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 15 min to make the

pellet of bacterial cells. These cells were washed twice with PBS

(pH 7.4) to remove any impurity of broth media. Bacterial DNA was

extracted by phenol chloroform method as per Sambrook and

Russel (2001). For the PCR reaction Emerald HotStart PCR

Master Mix solution (TaKaRa, Japan) was used. DNA amplification

targeted to genus specific 16SrRNA gene was performed using

p r imer (5 ' -GGATGACACTTTTCGGAGC-3 ' and 3 ' -

CATTGTAGCACGTGTGTC-5') originally described by Linton et

al. (1996) on 3µl of DNA sample in 25µl reaction mixture. After an

initial denaturation step at 95°C for 15 min, 35 amplification cycles

were performed, each consisting of 30 sec at 95°C, 1.5 min at

58°C, 1 min at 72°C and followed by a final extension step at 72°C

for 7 min. Eight microlitres of the amplification reaction was taken

and resolved on 1.5% agarose gel containing 1 xTAE, stained with

an ethidium bromide solution and visualized under ultraviolet light.


Out of 134 faecal samples from dogs collected during the

present study, 65 revealed cultural characteristics of


Campylobacter spp (watery and dew drop like or swarming type

colonies) on Campylobacter selective agar (Figure 1). Out of 65

initial tentative Campylobacter isolates, only 47 could be

confirmed by biochemical tests (oxidase and catalase tests).

Previous studies conducted by Cheesbrough (1991), Alexander

and Strete (2001), Vandepitte and Verhaegen (2003) and Sinaa

(2008) also reported translucent droplet-like colonies of

Campylobacter, while some strains appeared gray and white

flattened. Buck et al. (1983) mentioned that the morphology of

cells on solid media changed dramatically in older culture from

spiral to coccoid forms this possibly lead to the miss interpretation

of cell stains and false results, for this reason, Sinaa (2008)

reported that conventional method is not always sensitive.

Figure 1: Colonies of Campylobacter spp on the

Campylobacter selective agar

These 47 isolates were further characterized by

polymerase chain reaction assay (PCR). Of 47 presumptive

Campylobacter isolates, an amplicon of 816bp size was obtained


using primer set (Campylobacter) in 38 isolates (Figure 2). The

prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in dog was 28.36% (38/134).

Nonetheless, despite the higher overall sensitivity of PCR, nine

faecal samples those were positive by culture and biochemical

identification could not be confirmed by PCR. Lawson et al. (1999)

had previously reported the same in the case of C. jejuni and has

been variously attributed to degradation of the bacterial DNA. In

consequence, the current absence of a 'gold standard' for the

detection of Campylobacter spp. requires both direct PCR and

culture methods to be used in parallel (Parsons et al., 2011).

M 1 2 3 N

Figure 2: PCR assay for detection of Campylobacter spp in

dogs

Lane M: 100 by DNA ladder

Lane N: Negative control

Lane 1-3: Campylobacter isolates


The 28.36% prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in canine

faecal samples reported in this study is in the middle of the range

(4.81 %-59%) of prevalence data previously reported (Rossi et al.,

2008; Parsons et al., 2010; Kumar et al., 2012a, b; Verma et al.,

2014; Badlik et al., 2014; Procter et al., 2014; Giacomelli et al.,

2015; Selwet et al., 2015; Holmberg et al., 2015). Differences

between the prevalences of Campylobacters in these studies may

reflect differences in the populations investigated, or in the

detection methods used (Guest et al., 2007; Acke et al., 2009;

Parsons et al., 2010; Verma et al., 2014).

Taken together, the results of the present study suggest

dogs may be an important reservoir for Campylobacter spp. and

dogs attending veterinary clinics are likely to be a zoonotic risk. As

dogs are most common companion animal for the human, the

present study further warranted the need for surveillance and

monitoring system with respect to the prevalence and

antimicrobial resistance of Campylobacter in dogs and their

owners and human population in general for the presence of

Campylobacters and to detect correlation (if any) in the prevalence

of infection in dogs and their contacts.

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Microbiol., 114, 50-59.

13. Holmberg, M., Rosendal, T., Engvall, EO., Ohlson, A. and

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Microbiol., 43,2642-2650. 9


COMPLETE ALL FOUR MID METACARPAL FRACTURE OF

WORKING MILITARY DOG AND ITS SURGICAL

MANAGEMENT WITH BRIDGE PLATING AND THOMAS

SPLINT

Capt Ashutosh Thakur*, Capt Gokarn Nishit**, Col Mangal

Singh*** and Brig PR Venkatesh****

ABSTRACT

A three years old military dog was referred with the history of non

weight bearing lameness in left forelimb. Physical examination

revealed complete fracture of all four mid metacarpal bones which

was further confirmed by radiography. Surgical management of

fracture was carried out with bridge plating under general

anaesthesia. The dog recovered uneventfully after four weeks with

support of Thomas splint.

Metacarpal fractures account for 8.1 to 11.9 % of the fractures

seen in small animals. Fracture of the metacarpus occur most

commonly as a result of vehicular trauma, trauma from falling

objects, being stepped on or fighting amongst other dogs (Philip,

1979). Metacarpal and metatarsal fractures are classified

according to their anatomical location as fractures of the base, the

body, the head and the physis. The metacarpal bones are

numbered from one to five from the medial to the lateral aspect,

with the third and fourth metacarpals are considered as the major

Veterinary Officer, 2 Adv Fd Vet Hosp

Veterinary Officer, 15 Mob Fd Vet Hosp

Commandant, 2 Adv Fd Vet Hosp

Brig RVS, Eastern command

*

**

***

****

weight bearing bones. Proximally, the metacarpal two to five

articulate with the respective carpals and distally, with phalanges

(Evans, 1993). The metacarpophalangeal joints are supported by

medial and lateral collateral ligaments and a synovial joint

capsule. These joints posses two palmar and plantar sesamoid

bones and a single dorsal sesamoid, which is further supported by

the intersesamoidean ligaments, tendons of insertion of

interosseous muscle, the lateral, medial, distal and cruciate

INTRODUCTION

sesamoidean ligaments. As the metacarpals extend distally, the

bones adopt a more curved configuration, making it difficult to

engage more than two metacarpals distally for the placement of an

external skeletal fixator pin or a screw. The predisposing factor for

fractures in dogs include hereditary predisposition, nature of work

of military dogs, nutritional status, age, sex and body condition.

The diagnosis is based on history, orthopedic exam and

radiographic evaluation. Guidelines that recommend conservative

treatment using external coaptation are when fragments are

minimally displaced or maximum of two metacarpals bones are

involved or at least one of the two major weight bearing bones are

intact. Surgical interventions prove beneficial when the fragments

are markedly (>50%) displaced or communition exists; more than

two bones are involved; when both metacarpals three and four are

fractured; fracture involving middle or distal metacarpal region;

when the articular surface is involved or when the patient is a

working military dog, athlete or show dog.

HISTORY AND CLINICAL SIGNS

A three year old working military dog, Mala was presented with

non-weight bearing lameness in the left forelimb. History revealed

that the animal met with an accident during a routine slithering drill

practice from a helicopter. On examination of the gait, the animal

was reluctant to bear weight on the left limb. Careful examination

revealed crepitus and surrounding soft tissue swelling. Animal

exhibited pain on manipulation of the swollen area. The

radiological examination revealed transverse fractures of midshaft

of the second, third, fourth and fifth metacarpals. The third and the

fourth metacarpal showed relatively stable apposition and

alignment after manipulation under general anaesthesia (Fig. 1)


After radiographic assessment

in orthogonal views, it was

decided to stabilize the fracture

by using 'Modified Robert-

Jones bandage technique until

the surgery. Based on the

relative stability obtained by the

alignment of the third and fourth

metacarpal, it was decided to

use a 2mm cuttable Titanium

plate with 10mm screws. These

plates are routinely used in

phalangeal fractures in human

orthopedic surgeries.

After fasting the animal for

overnight, it was sedated using

the combination of Inj. Xylazine


Fig 1: Complete closed mid

metaphyseal fracture Of

2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th

Metacarpal of left limb in

working military dog.

@ 1 mg/kg body weight and Inj. Ketamine @ 10 mg/kg body weight

intra muscularly Induction was carried out using combination of Inj

Ketamine @ 5 mg/kg body weight intravenously. The animal was

intubated in order to maintain patent airway. Animal was

maintained on a Ketamine:Diazepam combination in ratio 4:1 to

effect while continuously monitoring the vital parameters. The

surgical incision was made on the antero lateral and antero medial

aspect of left forelimb just above the second and the fifth

metacarpals. After dissecting the overlying soft tissue, taking care

not to damage the extensors and supporting blood vessels, the

proximal and distal fragments were identified and isolated. The

fractured edges were freshened and the bone was exposed using

periosteal elevator. Since the working space was limited, the use

of bone holding forceps was not warranted. The fractured

fragments were reduced and aligned along the length of the plate

to be used and it was determined by placing the plate on the bone.

It was ensured, minimum of two screws on each side of the

fracture line to maintain a good stability. The plate was held in


Fig 2: Drilling of holes in metacarpal bone

using 1.8mm diameter drill bit.

Fig 3: Radiograph of metacarpals

after surgical intervention.

place manually as the screws were drilled using a electric drill with

a 1.8 mm drill bit. A holed plate was used for the 2nd metacarpal

with two screws on each side of the fracture site and a 8-holed

plate was used for the fifth metacarpal with adequate purchase of

3 screws on each side. The soft tissue was closed using

absorbable poly glycolic acid sutures with cruciate skin sutures to

get good skin apposition.


The progress of fracture healing was assessed by periodic

radiographic evaluation of limb. Condition of fracture and its

reduction and alignment was evaluated post-operatively. Surgical

wounds healed completely within nine days of operation the effect

of Inj. Cefotaxime given @ 40mg/kg bw bid for 9 days.

Fig 4: Military dog Mala with Thomas splint applied over

operated limb for secondary support after 25 days post-

operative.

Growth of soft callus was evident at 15 days post operative. Dog

was shifted from regular antiseptic dressing with Neosporin

powder to modified Robert-Jones bandaging, supported by


Thomas splint made up of Aluminium cloth hangars. After 25 days

of surgery, swelling was reduced with complete healing of suture

site but external fixation to support 3rd & 4th metacarpal was still

required for eight weeks post operative care. After four weeks post

operative care, the military dog was able to bear weight with a

Thomas Splint, but movement was restricted to maintain stability

of the fracture site.

Numerous surgical options have been reported for the fixation of

metacarpals in dogs. Benedetti et al., (1986) reported a 'slotting

technique' for intramedullary pinning of the metatarsal and

metacarpals, however these techniques provide good resistance

against bending forces, but perform poorly against rotational

forces, therefore, the technique used for the current case was of

Titanium cuttable plates, along with postoperative coaptation

using Thomas splint and Modified Robert Jones bandage. The

current study concurred with the findings of earlier work on

application of maxillofacial mini- plates in fracture repair (Werthern

et al., 2000) and Various orthopaedic conditions of the metacarpus

in dogs (Roch et al., 2009).

REFERENCES

1. Benedetti, IT. Berry, K. and Bloomberg M., (1986) A

technique for intramedullary pinning of metatarsal and

metacarpals in cats and dogs. Journal of the American animal

hospital association, 22 : 149-152.

2. Evan, HE. (1993) Bones of the thoracic limb. In Miller's

Anatomy of Dog. 3rd ed. Philadelphia: WB Saunders, 194- 196.

3. Phillips, IR. (1979) A survey of bone fracture in the dog and


cat. Journal of small animal practice, 34: 85-89.

4. Roch, S., Gemmil, T. (2009) Orthopaedic conditions of the

metacarpus, metatarsus and digits in dogs. In practice, 31: 484-

494.

5. Von Werthem, CJ. and Bernascone, CE. (2000) Application

of maxillofacial mini-plate compact 1.0 in the fracture repair of 12

cats/ 2 dogs. Veterinary and comparative orthopaedics

traumatology, 13:92-96.


SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF GASTRIC DILATATION AND

VOLVULUS (GDV) IN AN ARMY DOG: A CASE REPORT

Maj Chandan Singh* and Col Manoj Batra**

ABSTRACT

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) syndrome commonly

referred to as stomach bloat/torsion is a life threatening condition of dogs

in which the stomach dilates & rotates/twists on its short axis leading to

progressive distension of stomach, increased pressure in the abdomen,

respiratory distress, damaged cardiovascular system, shock and death.

An eight year old female GSD Army dog was admitted with history of

restlessness and thick frothy hyper salivation immediately after feeding.

The dog was panting, recumbent with arched back, restless,

uncomfortable and showed nonproductive retching. Clinical exam

revealed abdominal distension and tympany, tachycardia, pale visible

mucous membranes and prolonged capillary refill time. Radiographic

and ultrasonographic examination revealed severely distended

stomach due to accumulation of gas. Since conservative treatment to

release the gas by needle puncture and gastric intubation by orogastric

tube did not reveal the desired result, gastrotomy was performed under

general anesthesia. Stomach was decompressed; volvulus corrected by

rotation and stomach was placed back in its position. Incisional

gastropexy was performed by suturing the pyloric antral region to the

right body wall to prevent recurrence of volvulus. Post-operatively, the thskin sutures were removed on the 10 day and the dog made an

uneventful recovery.

* Veterinary Officer, 1 Adv Fd Vet Hosp** Commandant, 1 Adv Fd Vet Hosp

INTRODUCTION

Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) is also known as “bloat”

“stomach torsion” or “twisted stomach”. GDV is an extremely serious

condition and a life threatening emergency. Understanding the signs,

prevention, and need for prompt treatment helps to reduce the risk of

mortality. The most obvious signs are abdominal distension,

nonproductive vomiting and retching. Other signs include restlessness,

abdominal pain, rapid shallow breathing and profuse salivation due to

severe pain.

Gastric dilatation is one part of the condition and volvulus or

torsion is the other part. In bloat, due to number of different and

sometimes unknown reasons, the stomach fills up with air and puts

pressure on other organs and diaphragm making it difficult for the dog to

breath, leading to compressed large veins of the abdomen, thus

preventing blood from returning to the heart. Filled with air, the stomach

can easily rotate on its axis, thus pinching off the blood supply. Once this

rotation (volvulus) occurs and the blood supply is cut-off, the stomach

begins to die, the entire blood supply is disrupted and the animal's

condition begins to deteriorate very rapidly. The dog may go into shock

and become pale, have a weak pulse, a rapid heart rate, and eventually

collapse. A dog with gastric dilatation without volvulus can show all these

signs, but more severe signs are likely to occur in dogs with both

dilatation and volvulus.

HISTORY AND CLINICAL FINDINGS

An eight year old GSD Army dog was admitted with history of

restlessness and thick frothy hyper salivation immediately after feeding.

The dog was panting, recumbent with arched back, restless,

uncomfortable and exhibited nonproductive retching. Clinical exam


revealed abdominal distension, tympany, tachycardia, pale visible

mucous membranes and prolonged capillary refill time. Body

temperature, heart rate and respiration rate of dog was 102.2 °F, 98

beats/min, and 58 breaths/min, respectively at the time of admission. 3Complete blood count revealed TLC 12.5x10 per ul, Hb 9.4 gm/dL, and

PCV 28 %. Abdominal palpation was unremarkable due to distension

and firmness. Radiographic (Fig.1) and ultrasonographic examination

revealed severely distended stomach due to accumulation of gas.

TREATMENT

On confirmation of diagnosis as a case of Gastric dilatation and

volvulus, the initial treatment was directed to stabilize the patient and

correct electrolyte abnormalities by providing fluid volume replacement

with 0.9% Normal Saline, Ringers Lactate, Inj Avil, Inj Dexamethasone

and other supportive therapy. Conservative treatment to release the gas

by needle puncture and gastric intubation by orogastric tube did not

reveal the desired results. Therefore it was decided to perform

emergency gastrotomy. Mid-ventral area was prepared for aseptic

surgery in dorsal recumbency. Dog was given Inj. Ampicillin and

Cloxacilin @ 10 mg/kg BW pre-operatively. Dog was anaesthetized by

Inj. Diazepam @ 0.5 mg /kg IV body wt and Inj. Ketamine @ 5 mg/kg

body wt IV. Inj. Atropine sulphate was given @ 0.044 mg/kg BW S/C. A

cranioventral midline laparotomy was performed and severe volvulus of

stomach with gastric dilatation was noticed. Stomach was exteriorized

and sterile drapes placed to prevent escape of stomach contents into the

peritoneal cavity. Gastrotomy was performed, the stomach emptied and

decompressed (Fig-2). Gastrotomy wound was closed with Lambert's

inverting sutures using 2-0 Polygalactin synthetic absorbable suture

material. Volvulus was corrected by rotation and the stomach was

placed back into its correct position. Incisional gastropexy was


performed by suturing the pyloric antral region to the right body wall to

prevent recurrence of volvulus. Stomach, intestines, and spleen were

evaluated for ischemic damage and necrosis. It was observed that

spleen and mesentery were severely congested. Laparotomy wound

was closed routinely. Post-operative radiograph after 12 hrs revealed

normal decompressed stomach (Fig.3). Food and water was withheld

for 96 hrs and dog was administered Inj. Cefotaxime, Inj Avil, Inj

Meloxicam, Inj Ranitidine, Inj Ondansteron, Inj DNS, Inj RL and other

supportive therapy for 10 days. After 96 hrs the dog was reintroduced to

oral intake by way of chicken/vegetable soup 100 ml orally twice daily

followed by adding one bread to the same from sixth day onwards. Skin th

sutures were removed on 12 day and the dog made an uneventful

recovery. No recurrence was observed during the follow up period of 3

months.

DISCUSSION

Certain risk factors associated with GDV have been identified by

Glicman et al., (1997). The temperament of an animal and tendency to

develop GDV seem to be closely related. Animals with a fearful or

"unhappy" personality are at increased risk for GDV. Stress factors like

boarding, change in environment, aggressiveness, and a hyperactive

personality also play a role in precipitating GDV. In the present case

similar findings were recorded where in the Army guard dog might have

suddenly become aggressive/hyperactive after evening feed intake and

resulted into the GDV. Other risk factors include a lean body condition

and a first degree relative (parent, offspring, and siblings) that has had a

GDV event. Dietary factors adding to the risk include rapid eating and

adding water to dry foods which contain citric acid. Decreased risk has

been associated with a diet that has one of the first four ingredients

containing a calcium-rich meat meal product.


Larger sized deep chested breeds like German Shepherd, Great

Dane, Saint Bernard and Doberman etc in higher age group (>7 Yrs) are

more prone to the disease and ingestion of large amount of feed/water

followed by sudden activity are the major contributing factors in more

than 80% of cases (Aronson et al., 2000). Male dogs are twice as likely to

develop GDV as compared to females (Glickman et al., 2000). Dogs fed

once a day are more likely to develop GDV as compared to those fed

twice a day. Dogs that eat rapidly or exercise soon after a meal are also

at increased risk. Thus combinations of activities lead to development of

GDV. Some of the more widely acknowledged predisposing factors for

developing bloat include eating food such as kibble that expand in the

stomach, overfeeding, increased water consumption in a small period of

time (before and after exercise) and other causes of gastrointestinal

diseases and distress. In the present case there was a history of hospital

admission in generalized dermatitis and tail gangrene one month earlier

to the occurrence of GDV which is comparable to that recorded by Braun

et al., (1996), where he found that dogs with inflammatory disease are at

an increased risk of bloat. Bloat in dogs is likely to be caused by a

multiple factors, but in all cases the immediate prerequisite is a

dysfunction of the sphincter between the esophagus and stomach and

an obstruction of outflow through the pylorus, or a clog (Parton et al.,

2006).

Majority of dogs affected with GDV undergo simultaneous

dilatation and clockwise rotation (between 180 and 360 degrees) of the

stomach around the gastroesophageal junction (Brockman et al., 1995).

Gas distension may occur prior to or after the stomach twists (Parton et

al., 2006). The most common direction for rotation are clockwise,

viewing the animal from behind. The stomach can rotate up to 360° in

this direction and 90° counter clockwise. If the volvulus is greater than


180°, the esophagus is closed off, thereby preventing the animal from

relieving the condition by belching or vomiting (de Papp et al., 1999). In

the present case also the volvulus was 360° clockwise and the animal

showed unproductive vomiting. In the present case also the clinical

findings like panting, restless, nonproductive retching, abdominal

distension and tympany, tachycardia, pale visible mucous membranes

and prolonged capillary refill time were observed as documented by

Orton and Muir (1983).

CONCLUSION

GDV is an emergent condition of older, deep chested dogs which

are generally predisposed to the disease due to sudden activity after a

heavy meal. Resolution of hypovolemia, decompression of stomach,

surgical correction of volvulus, and adequate post-operative care are the

primary objectives of successful treatment of GDV. Care must be taken

to evaluate the stomach, intestines, and spleen for ischemic damage

and necrosis, and appropriate treatment should be initiated to rectify.

Gastropexy should be performed during surgery to prevent recurrence

of volvulus. Timely diagnosis, early surgical intervention and post-

operative care in the present case played an important role in saving the

life of the Army dog.

REFERENCES

1. Aronson, LR., Brockman, DJ. and Brown, D. (2000) : Vet. Clin. North

Am.: Small Animal Pract; 30 (3): 555-580.

2. Braun, L., Lester, S., Kuzma, A. and Hosie, S. (1996): J. Am. Animal

Hosp. Assoc. 32(4): 287-90.

3. Brockman, DJ., Washabau, RJ. and Drobatz, KJ. (1995): J. Am. Vet.

Med. Assoc. 207:460-464.


4. de Papp, E., Drobatz, KJ. and Hughes, D. (1999): J. Am. Vet. Med.

Assoc. 215(1): 49-52.

5. Glickman, L., Glickman, N., Schellenberg, D., Raghavan, M. and Lee,

T. (2000): J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 217 (10): 1492-9.

6. Glickman, L., Glickman, N., Schellenberg, D., Simpson, K. and Lantz

G. (1997): J. Am. Animal Hosp. Assoc. 33 (3): 197-204.

7. Orton, EC. and Muir, WW. (1983): Am. J. Vet. Res. 44(8):1512-

1515.

8. Parton, A., Volk, S. and Weisse, C. (2006): J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc.

228 (12): 1895-900.


Fig.1: Pre operative X-ray (Arrow marks showing severely distended stomach)

Fig.2: Gastric decompression

Fig.3: Post operative X-ray (Arrow marks showing decompressed stomach)


INTERFRAGMENTAL FIXATION OF BILATERAL ROSTRAL

MANDIBULAR FRACTURE WITH CROSS-PINNING IN A

NEONATAL MULE FOAL.

Major Raghav Sharma*, Brig SS Kashyap**,

Lt Col VikasThakur ***, Major Chhabil Singh****

and Shrikant Pareek*****

ABSTRACT

Dystocia in a mare was relieved by repulsion of fetus, correction of

right lateral deviation of head followed by traction by snaring of the

lower jaw. The foal born was having dropped jaw with crepitus at

diastema. Clinical and radiographic assessment revealed a

complete bilateral rostral mandibular body fracture. Fracture

stabilization was achieved using bilateral interfragmentary cross

pinning followed by muzzling. The foal had poor suckling reflex for

72 hours post surgery, which gradually improved. Postoperative

radiographs were taken upto 2 months, at different periods and

fracture healing was evaluated. Radiographic union was achieved

in 40 days post operative and implants were removed. Fracture

healing occurred with mandibular fistulae and pressure sores due

to muzzle in the lower jaws, which spontaneously healed.

INTRODUCTION

Mandibular injuries are common in horses and the

* Gynaecologist, Equine Breeding Stud**Commandant, Equine Breeding Stud***Veterinary Officer- I, Equine Breeding Stud****Veterinary Officer- II, Equine Breeding Stud*****MVSc Scholar, Deptt of Vety Surgery and Radiology, COVSc, LUVAS.

mandible is the most commonly fractured bone in the head

(Tremaine, 1998; Peavey et al., 2003 and DeBowes, 1996).

Mandibular fractures are classified according to fracture

localization, soft tissue damage, existence of open fracture,

fragmentation, displacement and instability level, as well as the

adjacent tissues involved (teeth, tooth roots, canalis mandibularis

and temporomandibular joint). Fractures occurring in the diastema

are common and present as bilateral, transversal, or short oblique

fractures (DeBowes, 1996). In spite of trauma to bones and

adjacent soft tissues, mandibular fractures normally heal well,

since local vascularization is perfect if adequate stability is

provided. On the other hand, tooth loss, malocclusion,

osteomyelitis, sequestration, as well as chronic discharge and

less than optimal cosmesis are the possible complications in a

horse suffering from a mandibular fracture (Little et al., 1985;

Henninger et al., 1999; Belsito and Fischer, 2001). A variety of

fixation methods have been utilized to repair these types of

fractures, including the use of tension band wires, intramedullary

pins, lag screws, intraoral acrylic splints, metal rods, compression

plates and external splintage (Henninger and Beard, 1997). The

aim of mandibular fracture fixation is to provide the normal

occlusion and rapid mandibular function via the rigid fixation

method, to avoid excessive soft tissue damage and to protect the

teeth, tooth roots and the neurovascular structures in the

mandibular canal from fixation materials (Tremaine, 1998;

DeBowes, 1996 and Beard, 1999). Both internal and external

fixation methods are successfully used for the treatment of


bilateral mandibular body fractures (Peavey et al., 2003 and

Colahan and Pascoe, 1983). A case of a complete bilateral rostral

mandibular body fracture in a neonatal mule foal and its successful

stabilization via a bilateral interfragmentary cross pinning is

discussed.

CASE HISTORY AND CLINICAL FINDING

A dark bay colt foal born after 358 days of gestation

subsequent to an assisted foaling due to dystocia. The foal had

antero-posterior presentation, dorso-sacral position and right

lateral deviation of head with both forelimbs in birth canal. The

corrective procedure involved repulsion of the fetus followed by

snaring of the lower jaw, in order to achieve correction and

subsequent traction. The duration of foaling process and dystocia

was 90 minutes and the foal weighed 39 kg and had

measurements as height 98 cm, girth 80 cm and leg 11 cm. The

foal had dropped lower jaw (Figure 1) and crepitus rostral to

diastema. Clinical and radiographic assessment revealed a

complete bilateral rostral mandibular body fracture. Lateral

radiograph revealed complete fracture of rostral to middle third

part of both horizontal rami of mandible with mild to moderate over

riding of the fracture fragments (Figure 2). Per os examination

revealed open fracture and fracture ends were seen in the oral

cavity.

ANAESTHESIA PROTOCOL AND SURGICAL PROCEDURE

Preoperative patient preparation included 0.5 % Povidone

iodine saline lavage to remove foreign material from the fracture


site. Sedation was achieved with Inj. Xylazine HCl (1.1 mg/kg, IV)

which was followed by induction of general anaesthesia using Inj.

Ketamine HCl (2.2 mg/kg, IV) after 15 minutes of sedation.

Maintenance of anaesthesia was achieved using cocktail of Inj

Ketamine and Inj Xylazine (1:1). The oral cavity and fractured bone

ends were lavaged with sterile saline to remove dirt and saliva. A

3.0 mm trocar end steinmann pin was placed on the bone below

the mid-point between the roots of central incisor (11) and

intermediate incisor (12) lateral to the mandibular symphysis in left

hemimandible and directed cranio-medially towards sublingual

oral mucosa (Figure 3 a and b). The pin was introduced using a

power drill into the fractured part of the horizontal ramus of the right

hemimandible while maintaining fracture reduction manually. The

same procedure was repeated on the right side and bilateral

interfragmentary cross pinning was performed to stabilize the

fracture fragments. Required stability on the fracture line was

achieved by muzzling the animal. Postoperative radiographs were

taken following the operation (Figure 4 a) and the oral cavity was

cleaned once again with saline and an oral antiseptic

(Chlorhexidine gluconate 0.2%).

POST OPERATIVE TREATMENT

Inj Ampicillin Sodium and Cloxacillin Sodium (Debact®,

Vets Pharma, India) was administered at 20 mg/kg twice daily for

10 days following surgery and Inj Meloxicam (Emcam®, Vest

Pharma, India) was administered at 0.5 mg/kg once daily for 5

days following surgery. In the following days, the fracture was


supported by applying modified muzzle and the intraoral lesion

was cleaned twice a day with weak 0.05% Povidone iodine saline.

Oral antiseptic was applied until the soft tissue lesions in the oral

mucosa were healed. The foal had poor to reduced suckling reflex

for 72 hours post surgery, which gradually improved. However, the

suckling was strictly restricted and the nutrition of the foal was

managed by periodic naso-gastric intubation for three weeks.

Postoperative radiographs were taken upto 2 months, at different

periods, and fracture healing was evaluated (Figure 4 b). Fixation

materials were left in place, in which left pin showed migration by

day 12 post surgery. The pin was reposed using an orthopedic

mallet and removed at day 25 owing to repeated migration.

Radiographic union was achieved at 40 days post operative and

implant migration had no effect on fracture healing (Figure 5). The

implants were removed 40 days following surgery. Fracture

healing occurred with mandibular fistulae and pressure sores due

to muzzle in lower jaw, which spontaneously healed by day 55 post

surgery (Figure 6).


The objective of above mentioned surgical treatment of

rostral fractures was to provide support and stability for healing of

the fractured mandible of foal. Fixation materials were left in place,

in which left pin showed rostral migration and partial dislodging by

day 12 post surgery. The pin was reposed using an orthopaedic

mallet. Radiographic union was achieved in 40 days post

operative and implant migration had no effect on fracture healing.


The abundant blood supply to the head and lack of constant

distracting forces allow fracture healing in spite of the factors like

mobility and multi directional variable forces, which are major

deterrents to the healing of fractures in other parts of the body

(Henninger and Beard, 1997). The implants were removed 40

days following surgery. Fracture healing occurred with few short-

term complications such as mandibular fistulae and pressure

sores due to muzzle in both the lower jaws. All resolved with

conservative treatment by day 55 post surgery. Long-term

complications were nil. However, Henninger and Beard (1997)

reported malocclusion as a common complication in surgical

repair involving interdental wiring. But in all cases of malocclusion,

the horses were able to apprehend and masticate properly. They

further reported that three foals developed brachygnathism

following the repair of bilateral fractures of the mandible. The

incidence of both short-term and long-term complications is low for

all fracture types and long-term function is excellent. The

proportion of complications occurring in unstable bilateral

maxillary and mandibular fractures in horses were explained as

68% (Ragle, 1993). The overall complication rate was 20% for

rostral mandibular body fractures stabilized via different types of

external skeletal fixator applications (Peavey et al., 2003). A

possible complication with an external fixator such as

entanglement in the external objects, creates hazards for both

horses and their handlers (Belsito and Fischer, 2001). Irritation to

the base of the tongue and mastication difficulties related to the

intraoral splint application have been reported (Belsito and


Fischer, 2001). Additionally, interdental wire loosening or failure in

the same study, were also reported in 22% of the horses

(Henninger et al., 1999). In addition, fixation stability is extremely

important since refracture is frequently seen in horses (Belsito and

Fischer, 2001). In conclusion, every method of mandibular fracture

fixation has its own advantages and disadvantages and the ideal

fixation method can differ, generally according to the case or to

surgeon preferences. This technique was preferred because of

existing circumstances; however, functional fracture healing was

achieved with negligible malocclusion.

REFERENCES

1. Beard, W.(1999): The skull, maxilla, and mandible. In:

Equine Surgery 2nd Edition. WB Saunders, Philadelphia. 887-

899.

2. Belsito, KA. and Fischer, A.T. (2001): Equine Veterinary

Journal. 33: 176-183.

3. Colahan, PT. and Pascoe, J.R. (1983): Journal of American

Veterinary Medical Association. 182: 1117-1119.

4. DeBowes, RM. (1996): Fractures of the mandible and

maxilla. In: Equine fracture repair. WB Saunders, Philadelphia.

323-335.

5. Henninger, RW. and Beard, WL., (1997). Proceedings of

the Annual Convention of AAEP. 43: 136-137.

6. Henninger, RW., Beard, WL., Schneider, RK., Bramlage,

L.G. and Burghardt, H.A. (1999): Journal of American Veterinary


Medical Association. 214: 1648-1652.

7. Little, CB., Hilbert, BJ. and McGill, CA. (1985): Australian

Veterinary Journal. 62: 89-91.

8. Peavey, CL., Edwards, RB., Escarcega, AJ., Vanderby,

RJr. and Markel, MD. (2003): Veterinary Surgery. 32: 350-358.

9. Ragle, CA. (1993): Veterinary Clinics of North America:

Equine Practice. 9:171-183.

10. Tremaine, WH. (1998):. Equine Veterinary Education. 10:

146-154.


Figure: 1 Lateral view of jaw showing complete

dropping of lower jaw

Figure: 2 Lateral radiograph (before surgery) showing complete fracture

of the rostral to middle third part of both horizontal ramii at diastema,

rostral to the cheek teeth with mild to moderate over riding of the

fracture fragments.


Figure : 3 (a)Surgical procedure showing placement of the

Steinmann pin for inter f ragmental stabi l i ty.

Figure 3 (b)Cutting of excess of Steinmann pin before

hammering and anchoring into the jaw bone

Figure : 4 (a)Lateral radiograph (post surgery) showing location of both the steinmann pins placed to achieve bilateral interfragmentary pinning to stabilize the fracture fragments (Note the pin with arrow mark, pin sustained migration owing to insufficient anchorage).


Figure : 4 (b)Lateral radiograph (25 days post surgery) showing location of the readjusted steinmann pin and osteophytic reaction (arrow mark) signifying new bone formation and remodelling.

Figure : 5 Lateral radiograph (at day 40 post operative) showing complete radiographic union of the fracture fragments and near normal apposition of upper and lower jaw.


Figure : 6 Photograph taken at 68 days of age depicting

healed fracture with near normal occlusion of oral cavity.


EQUINE MUCOCUTANEOUS SQUAMOUS CELL

CARCINOMA AND ITS SURGICAL MANAGEMENT: A CASE

STUDY

Col Sanjay Rawat* and Brig Anil Kumar**

ABSTRACT

A 22 years old mule Geld was under treatment for muco-

cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma on left peri-orbital region.

Conventional treatment with antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs

and ophthalmic antibiotics did not yield any improvement. Surgical

excision of muco-cutaneous tumorous growth was performed

under general anaesthesia using a combination of Inj Atropine

sulphate, Inj Xylazine HCl, and Inj Ketamine HCl. Proliferative

nodular growth, ulcerative and malodorous necrosed tissue were

completely excised carefully without compromising healthy skin

and eyelid function. The mule made an uneventful recovery post

surgery.

INTRODUCTION

Muco-cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (MC-SCC) is

the second most common skin tumour of the horse (Valentine,

2006; Theon et al., 2007), as well as the second most common

equine tumour overall (Sundberg et al., 1977). Squamous cell

carcinoma (SCC) accounts for approximately 20% of all equine

*Comdt, 6 AFVH

**Brig RVS, HQ Central Command

mucocutaneous (MC) tumours and continues to present a

therapeutic challenge to practitioners. Most MC-SCC are locally

invasive and slow to metastasise, but metastasis to local lymph

nodes is not uncommon.

The most common location for MC-SCC is the periorbital

region, with the eyelid most commonly affected. Equine caballus

papillomavirus-2 (EcPV-2) has been recently identified as a likely

aetiological agent for the development of equine MC-SCC and

may prove to be necessary for tumour development (Scase, 2007;

Vanderstraeten et al., 2011).

Risk factors may include chronic exposure to ultraviolet

light (leading to squamous cell transformation and subsequent

tumour development) and chronic skin irritation (Pazzi et al., 1996;

Teifke and Lohr, 1996). Histopathology is required for definitive

diagnosis of MC-SCC, although lesion location and characteristics

may suggest MC-SCC. Several treatment modalities have been

successful in eliminating or managing MC-SCC, with surgical

excision and intra-tumoral chemotherapy yielding the best results.

Other treatment options including cryotherapy, hyperthermia,

radiotherapy and photodynamic therapy are often used as

adjunctive therapies. Early recognition of tumours and prompt

intervention are associated with a positive outcome (Schwink,

1987).

CASE HISTORY AND SIGNS

A 22 years old Indian mule was presented as a case of

muco-cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma on left periorbital


region. Mule was alert, responsive and revealed no signs of

systemic disease and was unremarkable except for his left eye

and adnexa. Close examination revealed proliferative tumorous

growth invasive over both the ocular and adnexal aspects, which

had overgrown and affected entire inferior lid mass and associated

epiphora. Present on the medial inferior lid on an area of

unpigmented epithelium was approximately 8.5cm x 5cm, firm,

pink, raised mass with a cauliflower-like surface. The right eye

appeared grossly normal. The ophthalmic examination revealed

the horse to have no other significant concurrent occular disease.

Overlying epidermal layers were disrupted by the developing rdtumour tissue growth and were bleeding superficially. Almost 2/3

of the eye was covered due to excessive periorbital oedema and

local irritation with prominent lacrimation.

Fig 1. Periorbital mucocutaneous squamous cell carcinoma

in a mule prior to surgical excision.


DIAGNOSIS

Critical assessment of growth of tumorous tissue and

adjacent nectrotic mass were made by close observation using a

magnifying glass. Tissue biopsy samples were obtained from the

lesion and analyzed for histopathological findings.

ANAESTHESIA PROTOCOL AND SURGICAL MANAGEMENT

Based on the tentative diagnosis of squamous cell

carcinoma, surgical excision of the lesion was decided under

general anaesthesia. The animal was pre-medicated with Inj

Atropine sulphate @ 0.01 mg/kg bwt followed by Inj Xylazine HCl

@ 1.1 mg/kg bwt intravenously and Inj Ketamine HCl @ 1.7 mg/kg

bwt intravenously, administered after 10 minutes. Inj Lignocaine

HCl 2% was administered locally in peri-orbital region. Complete

surgical excision of tumorous and ulcerative growth along with

adjacent necrotic tissue was attempted and approximately 8.5cm

x 5cm, firm, pink, raised mass with a cauliflower-like surface was

removed. This was followed by cauterization using electro-

cautery. Care was taken to remove the mass without significant

skin damage, eyelid functional compromise or scarring.

The Mule had an uneventful removal of the muco-

cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and 1mm of adjacent

apparently normal eyelid margin. Post surgery, the mule was

managed medically with parenteral and ophthalmic antibiotics

(0.3% Ciprofloxacin) and NSAIDs.


RESULT

The mule made an uneventful recovery with normal healing

of surgical site and healthy granulation tissue. The incision site

was re-examined on tenth day post-operatively. The ophthalmic

examination revealed intact pupillary light reflex and no corneal

abscession. Previous ulceration had resolved with very faint

reminant fibrosis. The surgical site healed as expected and was

covered with healthy granulation tissue. There was no visual

evidence of tumor at this time.

Fig 2. Healing of incision site with growth of healthy

granulation tissue 10 days post surgery.


DISCUSSION

Squamous cell carcinoma commonly arise at sites such as

periocular region, genitalia, nasal and oral mucocutaneous

junctions (Dugan et al., 1991). If metastasis to lymph nodes is

diagnosed, the affected node should be surgically removed if

possible and the prognosis downgraded considerably (Chaux et

al., 2009). Several treatment modalities have been successful in

eliminating or managing squamous cell carcinoma, with surgical

excision and intratumoral chemotherapy yielding the best results.

The most common course of treatment is surgical excision or

debulking followed by a form of adjunctive therapy, such as

hyperthermia, cryotherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and

photodynamic therapy. Various success rates of these treatments

have been reported (Hewes and Sullins, 2009).

Fig:3 Histopathological examination of biopsy samples revealed

anaplastic epithelial cells infiltrating epidermis and underlying

tissues. Characteristic epithelial pearl were seen in epithelial

mass. Underlying tissues displayed signs of local inflammatory

reaction.


REFERENCES

1. Chaux, A., Torres, J., Pfannl, R., Barreto, J., Rodriguez, I.,

Velazquez, EF. and Cubilla, AL. (2009): Am. J. Surg. Pathol., 33:

1042-1048.

2. Dugan, SJ., Curtis, CR., Roberts, SM. and Severin, GA.

(1991): J. Am. Vet. Med. Ass., 198: 251-256.

3. Hewes, CA. and Sullins, KE. (2009): Proc. Am. Ass. Equine

Practnrs., 55: 386-393.

4. Pazzi, KA., Kraegel, SA., Griffey, SM., Theon, AP. and

Madewell, BR. (1996): Cancer Lett., 107: 125-130.

5. Scase, T. (2007): Eq. Vet. J., pp 281-282.

6. Schwink, K. (1987): Eq. Vet. J., 19: 198-200.

7. Sundberg, JP., Burnstein, T., Page, EH., Kirkham, WW. and

Robinson, FR. (1977): J. Am. Vet. Med. Ass., 170: 150-152.

8. Teifke, JP. and Lohr, CV. (1996): J. Comp. Pathol., 114: 205-

210.

9. Theon, AP., Wilson, WD., Magdesian, KG., Pusterla, N.,

Snyder, JR. and Galuppo, LD. (2007): J. Am. Vet. Med. Ass., 230:

1506-1513.

10. Valentine, BA. (2006): J. Vet. Diagn. Invest., 18: 123-126.

11. Vanderstraeten, E., Bogaert, L., Bravo, IG. and Martens, A.

(2011): Vet. Microbiol., 147: 292-299.


SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF UMBILICAL HERNIA IN A

THREE MONTH OLD MALE CALF: A CASE REPORT

Lt Col Vineet Butola* and Capt Ajay Thakur**

ABSTRACT

A 3 month old male calf was presented in the clinic with the

anamnesis of umbilical hernia since seven days. A hernial ring with

3 - 4 cms diameter was present. The hernia was repaired under

local analgesia. A case of successful surgical repair of umbilical

hernia in a male calf is put on record.

INTRODUCTION

Umbilical hernia is one of the major surgical affections in

animals. It occurs in all domestic animals but is more common in

foals, pups and calves (Priestar et al. 1970). Umbilical hernia can

be very dangerous, if not treated on time. Different techniques

have been described for hernial repair and are aimed at securing a

firm union of the opposing edges of the hernial ring by Wheat

(1952). Selection of an effective and economically appropriate

approach depends on accurate identification of the source of the

swelling and the structures involved. A case of successful surgical

repair of umbilical hernia in a three months old male calf is put on

record.

CASE HISTORY AND CLINICAL SIGNS

A three month old male calf was presented in the clinic with

* OC, 26 Mobile Field Veterinary Hospital

** VO, 26 Mobile Field Veterinary Hospital

the anamnesis of umbilical

hernia for last seven days.

On clinical examination

ventral abdomen revealed

hernia and associated

structures were palpable

in lateral as well as dorsal

recumbency (Fig 1). The

diameter of hernial ring

was about 3 - 4 cms.

SURGICAL PROCEDURE

The calf was kept off-feed prior to surgery by restricting feed

for 24 hours and water for 8 hours. Clinical examination on the day

of surgery showed that the patient was in a stable state.

Temperature, pulse and respiratory rate were within normal range.

The animal was placed in right lateral recumbency. Under aseptic

conditions, the surgical site was shaved off with medicated soap,

dried off with spirit and cleaned with Povidone iodine (Betadine)

solution. Local analgesia was achieved by infiltration of 30 ml 2 %

Lignocaine Hydrochloride as a field block carefully avoiding

nerves or blood vessels.

Following draping an elliptical incision was made around

the navel through the skin and subcutaneous tissue. The external

and internal sheet of the rectus abdominis muscles were next

incised with a blade at the left cranial aspect of the incision to avoid

damaging any potentially infected internal umbilical structures.

Fig 1: An Umbilical hernia in calf


The abdomen was digitally explored and the incision through the

abdominal wall continued around the hernial ring. Adhesions were

removed and vessels were ligated using chromic catgut 2-0 to

avoid bleeding. The contents of the hernia consisted of small

intestines and peritoneum.

Adhesions with the omentum were broken. The hernial

edges were freshened and the hole created in the omentum was

sutured with an appositional continuous pattern after reducing the

contents of hernia into the peritoneal cavity. The surgical site was

irrigated using sterile saline solution and muscles were opposed

using chromic catgut size 0 using double breasted suture pattern.

The skin was apposed using black braided silk size 2-0 in a simple

interrupted pattern (Fig 2 and 3).

Fig 2: Skin sutures Fig 3: Hernia after surgery

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT AND RESULT

Post-operatively, the animal was administered Inj

Ceftriaxone @110 mg/Kg body weight bid i.v, Inj Analgin 10 ml bid

i.v, Inj Revici 10 ml bid i.v and Inj B-Complex 2 ml i.m alternate day

for 7 days. Daily antiseptic dressing of the skin incision was carried

out. Hay was reintroduced after a 3 days period. The owner was


advised stall rest for the calf for the next seven days. The skin

sutures were removed on 10th day after the surgery. The calf

made an uneventful recovery.

DISCUSSION

Umbilical hernias are the most common birth defect in

calves. In calves, the chief underlying factor in the etiology of

umbilical hernia is infection of the umbilical cord. Bacteria gaining

entry through the umbilicus infect the remnants of umbilical

vessels and the abdominal contents protrude beneath the skin,

resulting in an umbilical hernia (Singh et al. 1989). The prevalence

of hernia is more in male calves (55.55 %) as compared to female

(44.45) calves (Das and Hashim. 1996) due to large swelling at

umbilical region for preputial sheath. This may be due to the

reason that during development of preputial sheath the abdominal

wall may not be properly developed leading to formation of hernial

ring. In the present case also the calf was a male. Umbilical hernia

occurs mostly in 1 to 3 months age (44.44 %) than in below 1

month and upper 3 months age (Gadre et al. 1989). In the present

case also the calf was of 3 months age.

REFERENCES

1. Das, BR. and Hashim, MA. (1996): Studies on surgical diseases

in calves. Bang, Vet. J. 30: 53-57.

2. Gadre, KM., Shingategr, RK. and Ponchabhai, VS. (1989):

Biometry on Umbilical hernia in calves. Ind. Vet. J. 66: 889.

3. Priestar, WA., Glass, AG. and Waggoner, NS. (1970):

Congenital defects in domestic animals. Am J. Vet. Res. 31: 1871-

1879.


4. Singh, AP., Eshoue, SM., Rifat, JF. and Falehea, NG. (1989):

Hernia in animals, A review of 59 cases. Ind. J. Vet Surgery. 10: 20-

31.

5. Wheat, JD. (1952): "Surgical Repair of Umbilical and Inguinal

Hernias in the Bovine," Iowa State University Veterinarian: Vol. 14:

lss. 1, Article 3.


AN OUTBREAK OF DERMATOPHYTOSIS AMONGST

HORSE YOUNG STOCK IN AN ORGANISED STUD AND ITS

CONTROL

Lt Col Vikas Thakur*, Maj Raghav Sharma**

and Brig SS Kashyap***

INTRODUCTION

Skin diseases in the horses are very common and often

present a diagnostic challenge for the clinician. Various bacteria,

fungi and parasites have been implicated as cause of dermatitis in

horses. Dermatophytosis or ringworm is a fungal infection of the

superficial layer of the skin and hair fibers and is caused by two

main fungi, Trichophyton spp and Microsporum spp. It is one of the

most common skin diseases affecting stabled horses (Rose and

Hodgson, 2000 ).

An outbreak of dermatophytosis and its successful

management in Horse Young Stock (HYS) in an organized stud

farm is reported in this paper.

CLINICAL SIGNS

Eighteen HYS in the age group of 6-9 months were found to

be showing signs of patchy pruritic alopecia in the month of Sep

2014. On clinical exam, lesions were found to be multifocal, round

areas of alopecia varying in size from 2 to 3 cm in diameter. Most of

* VO - I** VO - II*** Commandant Equine Breeding Std. Hisar

the lesions were on the abdomen, followed by neck, head and

thorax. Scales and crusts were evident in these patches with some

showing erythema. Some patches showed regeneration of hair in

the center.

DIAGNOSIS

Skin scrappings along with hair from periphery of the

lesions were collected with a sterile BP blade on sterile petri plates

for laboratory analysis.

Microscopic examination for mange mites as per method

described by Foreyt (2001) was found negative. Fungal culture 0

was attempted on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) at 27 C. Two

type of colonies were seen over a period of 4 weeks. One of the

colonies was flat, spreading, powdery to granular, with a whitish

central raised dome, beige to cinnamon colored (front - white to

dark green, reverse – reddish brown ).The growth was moderately

Fig 1. and 2.- Focal, 2-3 cm diameter round skin lesions showing alopecia, erythema and crust formation


rapid and the morphology was indicative of Microsporum spp.

Another type of colony was slow growing, buffy white in

colour, flat, suede like to powdery, with a central folding. ( Front –

white to cream, Reverse – reddish brown with dark red in centre).

The morphology was indicative of Trichophyton spp.

Microscopically, two types of fungi could be identified in

Lactophenol Cotton Blue mounts. Microsporum spp were seen as

thin walled, spindle shaped macroconidia whereas thin walled,

club shaped macroconidia were identified as Trichophyton spp.

Microconidia were not seen in either of the culture.

TREATMENT

The hair around the lesions were shaved. The area was

thoroughly washed with Chlorhexidine 2% w/v and Miconazole 2% ®shampoo (Miclor , Grampus) daily. After drying, ointment Tope

®Derm , from Vetchem medicare, containing Miconazole nitrate 2%

w/v, Gentamicin sulphate 0.1% w/v and Clobetasol propionate

Fig 3. – Thin walled, spindle shaped

macroconidia of Microsporum spp.

Lactophenol Cotton Blue Mount. X400.

Fig 4. - Thin walled, club shaped

macroconidia of Trichophyton spp.

Lactophenol Cotton Blue Mount. X400.


0.025% w/v were applied daily for 14 days followed by weekly

application until 2 weeks after clinical remission. The animals were

also treated symptomatically with antihistaminics and Vit B

Complex.

The affected paddock was vacated, thoroughly cleaned

and disinfected with chlorinated lime. All tack and grooming

equipment were disinfected with carbolic acid solution. In contact ®

animals were bathed with Miclor shampoo.

RESULT AND DISCUSSION

All animals made uneventful recovery within 6 wk of

treatment. Ringworm occurs in all animal species in all countries

but more commonly where animals are accommodated in dense

groups, especially indoors. It is a major public and animal health

problem in various regions of the world resulting in great economic

loss (Calderone, 1989). In horses, Microsporum and Trichophyton

species have been reported to be the causative agents of

dermatophytosis (Quinn and Markey, 2003). The disease appears

to be more common in tropical than temperate climates

particularly in countries having hot and humid climatic conditions

(Pascoe, 1976). In endemic areas, it has been found that horses

younger than two years were more susceptible to infection than

adults (Mahmoud, 1995). In a study in Jordan, amongst 316

horses examined in two large stables of horses with a history of

cutaneous lesions, 57 (18%) had ringworm infection.

Direct contact with infected animals is the common method

of spread of ringworm but indirect contact with fomites and


inanimate objects, particularly bedding, harness, grooming kits

and horse blankets is probably more important. Spores can exist

on skin without causing lesions and upto 20% of normal animals in

an infected group act as carriers. Spread to humans occurs readily

(Radostits et al., 2007).

Ringworm fungi chiefly attack keratinized tissues,

particularly the stratum corneum and hair fibers, resulting in

autolysis of the fiber structure, breaking off of the hair and

alopecia. Exudation from the invaded epithelial layers, epithelial

debris and fungal hyphae produce the dry crusts which are

characteristic of the disease. The lesions progress if suitable

environmental conditions for mycelial growth exist, including a

warm humid atmosphere and a slightly alkaline pH of the skin.

Ringworm fungi are all strict aerobes and the fungi die out under

the crust of the centre of most lesions, leaving only the periphery

active. It is this mode of growth which produces the centrifugal

progression and the characteristic ring form of the lesions

(Radostits et al., 2007). Chlorhexidine 2% and Miconazole 2%

have been recommended for treatment of dermatophytosis in

horses ( Rose and Hodgson, 2000 and Radostits et al., 2007 ).

REFERENCES

1. Biberstein, EL. (1990): Veterinary Microbiology, Blackwell

Science, Pp 214-219.

2. Calderone, RA. (1989): Immunoregulat ion of

dermatophytosis. Crit. Rev. Microbiology, 146:305-310.

3. Foreyt,WJ. (2001): Veterinary Parasitology, Reference


manual, Fifth edition, Blackwell publishing, Sec 01, Pp 07.

4. Mahmoud, A. (1995): Dermatophytes and other

keratinophilic fungi causing ringworm of horses. Folia

microbiology, 40:293-296.

5. Pascoe, RR. (1976): Studies on the prevalence of

ringworm among horses in racing and breeding stables. Aust. Vet.

J., 52:419-421.

6. Quinn, PJ. and Marky, RK. (2003): Concise Review of

Veterinary Microbiology, Blackwell Pub Oxford, Pp 74-75.

7. Radostits, OM., Gay, CC., Hinchcliff, KW. And Constable,

PD. (2007): Veterinary Medicine – A textbook of the diseases of th

cattle, horses, sheep, pigs and goats, 10 edn. WB Saunders and

Co. Philadelphia and London, Pp 1476-1478.

8. Rose, RJ. and Hodgson, DR.(2000): Manual of equine

practice, 2nd edn. WB Saunders and Co. Philadelphia and

London, Pp 487-488.


A REVIEW OF INTUSSUSCEPTION IN CANINES

Col Laxmikant Madrewar* and Lt Col Mohd Adil Yaqub**

ABSTRACT

Intussusceptions occur primarily in dogs younger than 1

year of age and are most commonly found at the ileocecocolic

junction. Intussusceptions may, however, occur at other locations

within the gastrointestinal tract, including the gastroesophageal

junction and pylorogastric region. Gastroesophageal and

pylorogastric intussusceptions result in more acute, severe clinical

signs than do intussusceptions within the small intestine.

Radiographic studies, including contrast-enhanced and

non—contrast-enhanced radiographs and ultrasonograms are

extremely helpful in making a diagnosis of intussusception.

Immediate systemic stabilization of the patient, followed by

surgical correction of the intussusception, is critical to a successful

outcome. Enteroplication techniques used to prevent recurrence

of intussusception are not without potential complications and

should be performed in accordance with specific guidelines.

INTRODUCTION

Intussusception describes a condition in which one

segment of the intestine (the intussusceptum) telescopes or

invaginates (Figure 1) into the lumen of an adjacent segment of

intestine (the intussuscipiens). Intussusceptions may occur at any

location in the gastrointestinal tract from the stomach to the large

intestine. However, most commonly, the bowel segments involved

are the middle of the small intestine (jejunum) or at the junction of

* CO : 32 mil vet Hospital, Meerut Cantt.

** Vet Surgical Specialist, 32 mil vet Hosp. Meerut Cantt.

small intestine and large intestine (ileocecocolic junction).

Generally the intussusceptum is a more proximal portion of bowel

(i.e. closer to the mouth) which telescopes into a more distal (i.e.,

closer to the anus) segment.

This pattern follows the normal direction of peristalsis. The

reverse, however, is occasionally found. Intussusceptions are

most commonly associated with some problem that causes

inflammation of the intestine (enteritis).

Fig 1. Diagrammatic representation of Intussusception

ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS

The exact cause of intussusceptions in general, is

unknown; however, any lesion in the bowel wall or irritant in the

lumen that alters the normal peristaltic pattern may initiate

invagination. Increased motility in a segment of intestine which is

adjacent to a segment that has lack of motility can cause the hyper

motile segment to telescope into the segment with ileus taking its

mesenteric attachment with it, resulting in an intussusception.


Obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract causes distention which

may lead to rupture and peritonitis. Compression of the

mesenteric vessels cause vascular compromise to the instestine,

resulting in venous congestion, oedema and if the arterial supply is

damaged, full thickness necrosis. An inflammatory exudate is

released from the serosal surface and fibrous adhesions may

form, making the structure irreducible. Intussusception normally

occurs due to gastrointestinal disease, although it is often hard to

identify the cause. It is associated with any condition that

increases peristalsis such as -

(a) Enteritis

(b) Intestinal foreign bodies (bones, plastic toys, etc.)

(c) Heavy parasitism (hookworms, whipworms, and

roundworms)

(d) Previous intestinal surgery

(e) Abrupt dietary changes

(f) Intramural masses (abscess/tumour)

(g) Motility disorders

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Dogs that develop intussusceptions have generally been

having episodes of diarrhea or vomiting before the

intussusception occurs. Small volumes of bloody diarrhea,

abdominal pain or a palpable abdominal mass are suggestive of

an intussusception. The severity of clinical signs depends

somewhat on the location of the intussusception, with problems

lower in the intestinal tract causing less severe clinical signs.


lntussusceptions can be chronic or intermittent, meaning that they

will reduce themselves spontaneously and then reform. Dogs with

a history of vomiting or diarrhea for more than a day or two should

be evaluated for presence of Intussusception, particularly if these

signs are associated with depression and loss of appetite. Clinical

signs vary depending on location, duration and the degree of

obstruction and vascular compromise.

(a) Acute Intussusception

(i) Vomiting

(ii) Regurgitation

(iii) Haematemesis

(iv) Abdominal discomfort

(v) Collapse

(vi) Palpable abdominal tubular mass

(vii) Bloody and mucoid diarrhoea

(viii) Tenesmus and Haematochazia in cases of

ileocaecocolic intussusception

(ix) lleocolic intussusception protruding through the

anus

(b) Chronic Intussusception

(i) Intermittent bloody and mucoid diarrhoea

(ii) Tenesmus

(iii) Depression

(iv) Anorexia

(v) Weight loss


DIAGNOSTICS

Intussusception should be a consideration if the dog has a

history of vomiting or diarrhea that has a palpable mass in the

abdomen. The mass can be felt as a thickened sausage shaped

intestinal loop. Occasionally the small bowel can be felt entering

the mass.

(a) Radiography - Plain abdominal radiographs do not

always provide a definitive diagnosis. In cases of complete

obstruction the classic radiographic appearance of an

intussusception is described as a 'coiled spring' wherein distended

loops of intestine with typical gas and fluid filled pattern of dilated

loops and a tubular soft tissue mass are usually obvious, but a

partial obstruction will produce much more subtle signs which may

be missed. A barium enema or upper gastrointestinal contrast

study can be useful in identifying the site of obstruction but may

result in delay of treatment and should be used cautiously as

leakage of contrast into the abdominal cavity will result in

peritonitis.

(b) Ultrasound - Ultrasound examination of the abdomen is

very useful for identifying the intussusception area concentric

rings are present within the lumen of a distended loop of bowel,

giving the typical "target" sign. Bowel wall are within the lumen of

the intussuscipiens.

Fig 2. Characteristic ring appearance of Intussusception in Ultrasound image


TREATMENT

Because most dogs that develop intussusceptions have had

episodes of vomiting and diarrhea, the hydration and electrolyte

status should be addressed prior to surgery, if possible. This

involves complete blood count and serum biochemistry analysis

and treatment with an appropriate intravenous fluid. Treatment of

animals with intussusception can be complicated and difficult.

Occasionally intussusceptions can be manually reduced by

manipulation of the affected bowel through the abdomen or they

reduce themselves spontaneously. In most cases, however,

surgery is required to treat this problem. Recurrence of

intussusceptions is common, so even if the intussusception can be

manually reduced, surgery is often recommended to perform

procedures designed to decrease the incidence of recurrence.

During surgery the affected area bowel is easily identified. It is

occasionally possible for the surgeon to manually reduce the

intussusception. In many instances, either the intussusception

cannot be reduced or the bowel is so badly damaged that

resection of the affected segment is required. In this case, the area

of damaged intestine is removed and the cut ends are joined

together with sutures or staples in a procedure called intestinal

resection and anastomosis.

INTESTINAL RESECTION AND ANASTOMOSIS

The segment of intestine to be removed is isolated from the

remaining viscera and the peritoneal cavity. If the segment so

isolated is freely movable, it should be gently pulled out of the

abdominal incision to avoid contamination. Blood vessels to the

segment are ligated and divided, including the connecting arcades


in the mesenteric border of the intestine. The mesentery is incised

near the ligated vessels, leaving as much mesentery as possible

for later closure. Intestinal forceps are used to isolate the length of

intestine to be discarded. A few millimeters of healthy intestine is

also removed with the diseased portion to ensure that the

anastomosis is made with healthy tissue. Intestinal contents are

milked away from the proposed transaction sites. The lumen on

each side is obstructed about 1 to 2 cm from the proposed sites of

transaction to allow easy suture placement. The intestine is

transected alongside the intestinal forceps with a scalpel and the

segment with its associated forceps is discarded from the table.

A single layer, simple interrupted approximating suture

pattern is most commonly used for end to end anastomosis as it

produces minimal stenosis or leakage and heals rapidly, although

many surgeons prefer using simple continuous pattern.

Mechanical staplers provide a rapid means of intestinal

anastomosis; however, their use is limited due to cost and

familiarity with the instrumentation. The intestinal edges are

sutured with 3/0 or 4/0 monofilament suture on a swaged-on taper

or taper cut needle. The first and second sutures are placed at the

mesenteric and antimesenteric borders respectively. Everted

mucosa may be trimmed with scissors or can be inverted with a

modified Gambee stitch.

The cut end of intestine is gently grasped with non crushing

forceps close to the intended suture position. The needle is

inserted through the serosa 3 to 5 mm from the edge of the incision

and passed through muscularis and sub mucosa. Resistance is

felt as the needle penetrates the sub mucosa. Needle is directed


towards the cut surface to emerge at the junction of the sub

mucosa and mucosa. The needle is inserted into the second

intestinal end at the mucosa-submucosa junction and passed

through the sub mucosa, muscularis and serosal in an arc to exit 3

to 5 mm from the cut surface. The suture is pulled just tight enough

to ap pose tissue because it will cut through the muscularis if pulled

too tightly. The remaining sutures are placed 3 to 5 mm apart

around the intestine. The modified Gambee suture works well to

provide adequate sub mucosal apposition while inverting the

mucosa.

Suture line reinforcement — The omentum is a

mesothilial membrane that has been called the "Abdominal

Policeman". It has an extensive vascular and lymphatic supply and

exhibits angiogenic, immunogenic and adhesive properties that

assist in restoring blood supply, controlling infection and

establishing lymphatic drainage. In experimental studies, the

omentum when wrapped around an avascular small intestine

anastomosis forms an adherent sheath that is capable of

preventing perforation and fatal leakage and revascularizing the

region. The position of omentum in dogs permits adequate

coverage of any intestinal anastomosis site with or without dorsal

extension. Omentum sutured or wrapped in place around an

anastomosis is likely to prevent leakage and dehiscence of

repaired intestinal segments.

Enteroplication- is creation of planned adhesions in

intestines after manual reduction or resection and anastomosis of

the intussusception. In this technique, adjoining segments of

intestine are placed side by side in a series of gentle loops to avoid


kinking or sharp bends. Once the adjoining segments of intestine

are laid side by side, the adjacent loops are sutured to each other

with absorbable interrupted sutures. Sutures so placed penetrate

the sub mucosal layer and are placed midway between

mesenteric and antimesenteric borders. Complete placation of

jejunum and ileum is recommended because intussusception

tends to recur at sites away from the initial lesion or proximal to the

areas of limited Enteroplication. Experimentally this technique

induces significant morbidity including abdominal discomfort,

vomiting, diarrhoea, decreased appetite and constipation. Clinical

complications of Enteroplication include obstruction,

strangulation, perforation, generalized septic peritonitis etc. Some

complications have been reported one month or more after the

surgery. Enteroplication is therefore used with caution and with

meticulous attention paid to the surgical technique.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATONS OF INTESTINAL SURGERY

Septic Peritonitis - Intestinal resection and anastomosis

carries the risk of leakage from the surgery site which can result in

potentially fatal peritonitis. Septic peritonitis after intestinal surgery

is most commonly associated with dehiscence of anastomosis

and occurs in about 7% to 16 % of patients. Clinical signs of septic

peritonitis after intestinal surgery are usually acute and reflect a

localized peritonitis that subsequently becomes diffused. The

signs most commonly include depression, anorexia, vomiting and

abdominal pain and tend to occur between 2 to 5 days after

surgery. Treatment of this condition includes broad spectrum

antibiotics, intravenous fluids, supplements and surgery for

correction of primary problem. The dehiscence is surgically


corrected and supported with a serosal or omental patch.

Adhesions — Up to 10% of human patients undergoing

laparotomy suffer from adhesion related complications such as

intestinal obstruction. Dogs have an active fibrolytic system that

usually prevents adhesions from becoming a clinical problem after

laparotomy. However, adhesions between abdominal structures

form when there is a disruption of the equilibrium between normal

fibrin deposition and fibrinolysis. Factors known to disrupt this

equilibrium and encourage adhesion formation are ishchemia,

hemorrhage, foreign bodies and infection. Measures that can be

taken to minimize adhesion formation include atraumatic tissue

handling, moistening of tissues and strict asepsis.

Ileus - is a common complication after abdominal surgery,

particularly if the gastro intestinal tract is manipulated. Reduced

intestinal motility is caused by overactivity of the sympathetic

nervous system, which is activated with the laparotomy and further

stimulated by rough manipulation of the intestines, long operative

time and extensive resection. However, use of prokinetic agents

after intestinal anastomosis to correct ileus is questionable as

certain degree of ileus is desirable after such an operation to give

the anastomosed segments opportunity to heal.

AFTERCARE AND OUTCOME

Postoperative care following intussusception involves

efforts to manage pain, generally with opioids, which help to

reduce bowel motility as well. Re-establishment of hydration and

normal electrolyte values is essential and appropriate intravenous

fluids are generally used until the dog is eating normally. The dog is

ideally kept off feed for 96 hours post surgery and is maintained


only on IV fluids and supplements. The dog is kept in ICU for at

least 7 days with careful monitoring of its vital parameters at

regular intervals along with signs of restoration of intestinal

patency like flatulence, passage of faeces etc. Broad spectrum

antibiotics are required depending on the amount of contamination

from the surgery and preference of the surgeon. The prognosis

following surgical repair of an intussusception depends on several

factors including —

(a) The duration of the problem.

(b) The amount of intestine involved.

(c) The location of the problem and.

(d) The extent of the blockage that has been caused.

Dogs in poor condition due to intussusception may have a

diminished ability,to heal, making leakage/dehiscence more likely.

If large length of intestine is removed dog may not do well

postoperatively because of the relatively short length of bowel left

behind. The prognosis for dogs with an intussusception is good as

long as recurrence of the problem can be prevented and excessive

amounts of bowel do not have to be removed. It has been reported

that between 11 % and 20% of dogs will have a recurrence of the

problem following surgical correction. The incidence is higher

(25%) if only manual reduction and no surgery is done.

References

1. Slatter D (2003): Textbook of Small Animal Surgery, Third

edn. Saunders, Elsevier Science (USA), Pp 644-654.

2. Wilson, GP and Burt, JK.(1974): Intussusception in the dog

and cat: A review of 45 cases. Journal of American Vet Med

Association 164 : 515-518.


3. Raidlovo, PJ. and Smith, H. (1981): Intussusception:

Analysis of 98 cases, British J Surg, 68: 645-648.

4. Singh, SS., Bansal, PS., Singh, B and Mirakhur, KK.

(1996): Indian Vet J. 73:318-320.

5. Weaver, AD. (1977): Vet Rec. 100:524-527

6. Ralphs, SC., Jessen, CR and Lipowitz, AJ. (2003) : Risk

factors for leakage following intestinal anastomosis in dogs and

cats : 115 cases (1991 - 2000) J Am Vet Med Assoc. 223:73-77.

7. Levitt, L. Bauer, MS. (1992). A review of 36 cases. Can Vet

J, 33:660-664.

8. Joy, CL and Patterson, JM. (1978) : Short bowel syndrome

following surgical correction of a double intussusception in a dog,

Can Vet J. 19 : 252-259.

9. Lewis, DD and Ellison, GW. (1987) : Intussusception in

dogs and cats, Compend Contin Educ Pract Vet 9: 523-534.

10. Reymond, RD. (1972) : The mechanism of intussusception:

A theoretical analysis of the phenomenon, Br J Radio 45 : 1-7.


INSTRUCTIONS TO AUTHORS

1. The Journal of Remount Veterinary Corps is an official publica-tion of Remount Veterinary Corps of Indian Army and is published half yearly in the month of Jan & Jul every year. It publishes papers on original works, general and clinical articles and reviews on all aspect of veterinary science with special reference to equines, canines and dairy animals.

2. Papers are accepted for publication from bonafide members of

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(c) INTRODUCTION should be brief and limited to the statement

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end of the text in alphabetical order, first author's surname , year of publication in parentheses, abbreviated name of journal (in

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Reference to books and monographs should include author/authors, editor, year of publication in parentheses, title,

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(iii) Sissons, S. (1953) : The Anatomy of the Domestic Animals,

Fourth edn. WB Saunders and Co. Philadephia and London, Pp 67.

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