Biomedical subjects

Kenneth D Newman

Publications and source records attributed to Kenneth D Newman.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2007

Humerus fractures in llamas and alpacas: seven cases (1998-2004).

OBJECTIVE: To describe treatment and outcome of humerus fractures in llamas and alpacas. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: Llamas (n=4) and alpacas (3) with humerus fracture. METHODS: Medical records (January 1, 1998-August 1, 2004) were reviewed for small camelids with a humeral fracture. Retrieved data were signalment, history, physical examination and radiographic findings, surgical and medical treatment, and outcome. RESULTS: Humeral fracture occurred in 7 of 38 (18%) camelids admitted with fractures. Affected animals were aged from 1 month to 3 years old. Fracture configuration included long-oblique (n=4), short-oblique (2), and Salter-Harris Type II fracture of the proximal physis (1). One adult llama was managed by stall confinement and surgical repair was attempted in the other camelids: fixation by screws inserted in lag fashion (n=3), intramedullary pinning and fixation by screws inserted in lag fashion (1), rush pinning (1), and bone plating (1). A Velpeau sling was used for additional support in 3 animals. All fractures healed but temporary radial nerve paresis occurred in 3 animals. Limb shortening and permanent lameness occurred in the llama managed conservatively. CONCLUSIONS: Humerus fractures in small camelids are amenable to surgical repair which may offer better long-term outcome than medical treatment alone. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Surgical treatment of humerus fractures should have a good prognosis in llamas and alpacas. In select cases, minimally invasive techniques, such as rush pinning or fixation by screws inserted in lag fashion are sufficient for fracture healing.

Age Factors↗

PubMed2005

One-step laparoscopic abomasopexy for correction of left-sided displacement of the abomasum in dairy cows.

Four adult dairy cows in which a diagnosis of left-displaced abomasum (LDA) had been made underwent a 1-step laparoscopic abomasopexy (LA). The technique was performed with each cow positioned in dorsal recumbency. Two laparoscopic portals were created in the right paramedian area to identify the abomasum and direct insertion of the steel trocar and cannula into the abomasal lumen. A stainless steel toggle pin (with 2 lengths of suture attached to its midpoint) was inserted via the cannula into the abomasal lumen while the excess suture material remained exterior to the abdomen. The abomasum was deflated, and the excess suture material was withdrawn up to a preset marker on the suture to position the abomasum adjacent to the body wall. The suture was then tied to secure the abomasum in place. By use of this 1-step LA technique, LDA was successfully corrected in all 4 cows. The procedure is minimally invasive and allows viewing of the abomasum for correct positioning and fixation; it can be accomplished with the speed associated with the blind roll-and-tack technique. The 1-step LA technique may reduce the incidence of complications associated with traditional laparotomy and the blind roll-and-tack technique and could be a useful alternative procedure for the treatment of LDA in dairy cows.

Abomasum↗

PubMed2005

Cesarean section in cows.

The goals of the cesarean section are preservation of the dam and calf and the future reproductive efficiency of the dam. The outcome of the cesarean section is a self-fulfilling prophecy. Numerous variables may affect the successful outcome of this procedure. Case selection is the most important and often overlooked variable. In addition, skin preparation,surgical technique, calf viability at the time of surgery, and exteriorizing the uterus can affect outcome. Minimizing excessive adhesion formation is equally important because it may affect reproductive efficiency adversely. Good surgical technique, including gentle tissue handling, appropriate suture materials and patterns, and adequate infolding of the uterine incision to prevent leakage, combined with antibiotics and anti-inflammatories when indicated can help minimize detrimental adhesions that may affect adversely the future reproductive efficiency of the cow. When dealing with anemphysematous fetus, intensive medical management perioperatively isa crucial determining factor of cow survival. Anti-inflammatories, high doses of intravenous antibiotics, and a ventral midline approach that permits adequate uterine exteriorization and reduces abdominal contamination also are likely key elements that contribute to the high survival rates of cows with emphysematous fetuses.

Animals↗