The chemical and ultra-structural analysis of thin plastic films used for surgical attenuation of portosystemic shunts in dogs and cats.

The objective of the study was to (1) characterize and compare the chemical composition at the surface, subsurface and in the bulk of thin plastic films used for portosystemic shunt attenuation in their native state and after plasma exposure. (2) Assess the presence, concentration and location of irritant compounds (e.g dicetyl phosphate) within the films.

Changes in chemical and ultrastructural composition of ameroid constrictors following in vitro expansion.

Objective: To (1) characterise the chemical and ultra-structural composition of ameroid constrictors, at a native state and during in vitro expansion and (2) determine the presence of irritant compounds at the surface or within the bulk of the constrictor.

Methods: Twelve sterile, commercially packaged ameroid constrictors (3 repeats of 3.5 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm and 7 mm internal diameter) were analysed by time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy, attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy.

A survey of current practices and influences on the choice of suture material, pattern and size used in commonly performed procedures in UK small animal veterinary practice.

Objectives: A survey of UK veterinarians was conducted to determine factors influencing suture choice and current suture practice for common surgical procedures.

Methods: An online survey was designed and the survey was sent to central practice emails obtained from the 2011 Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) practice database.

Results: Two hundred and thirty-nine surveys were completed (203 with no additional postgraduate qualifications (NAQ), 16 with RCVS certificates and 19 with diplomas).

Effect of monocortical and bicortical screw numbers on the properties of a locking plate-intramedullary rod configuration. An in vitro study on a canine femoral fracture gap model.

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of varying the number and configuration of locking bicortical and monocortical screws on a plate-rod construct using a mid-diaphyseal femoral ostectomy model.

Methods: Thirty Greyhound femurs were assigned to six groups (A-F). An intramedullary pin was placed in each bone following which a 3.