Indian Journal of Veterinary Surgery (IJVS) is a peer-reviewed official journal of the Indian Society for Veterinary Surgery, established in 1980. It publishes research and clinical articles in veterinary surgery and allied fields. With 45 volumes published to date, IJVS serves as a vital platform for advancing surgical knowledge in animals.
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Surgical management of an entero-hysterocele in a Queen cat
Surgical management of congenital umbilical hernia in a Persian kitten
Surgical management of symphyseal and bilateral rostral compound mandibular fractures using a novel interdental hemi-cerclage wiring technique in a mongrel dog
Successful medical management of ulcerative chalazion in a Rottweiler
Full-thickness homologous keratoplasty for the repair of a perforated corneal ulcer in a dog
Uberreiter's disease in a German Shepherd dog and its management
Canine amniotic membrane grafting in a dog affected with Bullous Keratopathy
An experimental model to create third degree burn wound in rabbits
The present study aimed to determine better method of heating of a burn wound creating apparatus, between direct heating and heating in boiling water, for creating experimental burn wounds. The temperature and contact time were constant for creating third-degree burns in rabbits. New Zealand White rabbits were used as the experimental model. A 500 g brass apparatus with a diameter of 3.5 cm was employed to induce burn injury. Burn depth was evaluated histologically. Third-degree burns were successfully produced in rabbits using the moist heating method. The study demonstrated that third-degree burn wounds can be experimentally created using moist heating.
Surgical management of penile anomalies in mongrel dogs
Penectomy combined with pre-scrotal urethrostomy was performed to establish a permanent urethral opening cranial to the scrotum following penile removal for the management of urethral affections and penile anomalies in castrated dogs. Four mongrel dogs were presented with a history of penile trauma of various etiologies. Based on clinical and physical examination findings, penectomy with pre-scrotal urethrostomy was performed in all cases. The procedure resulted in a tension-free anastomosis of the urethra to the skin at the pre-scrotal region, with no major postoperative complications observed. The study primarily focused on early complications, including mild intermittent haemorrhage from the stoma during urination, and late postoperative complications, particularly urethral stricture formation. The findings suggest that pre-scrotal urethrostomy combined with penile amputation is an effective surgical technique for the management of penile anomalies and may help reduce the risk of urethral stoma stricture formation in dogs.
Surgicotherapeutic management of perio-endodontic pathologies in dogs
The present study was conducted on five dogs, comprising four males and one female, to evaluate the clinical presentation, diagnostic modalities, and therapeutic management of perio-endodontic affections. All dogs were presented with a history of anorexia and halitosis. Clinical examination consistently revealed halitosis, gingivitis, dental calculus, and hypersalivation. Tooth discolouration was observed in three dogs, whereas two dogs exhibited complicated crown fractures of the canine teeth associated with pulp exposure, infection, and necrosis. Intraoral radiographic assessment using digital radiovisiography demonstrated widened pulp cavities and periapical radiolucencies in the affected teeth. Periodontal management was achieved through dental scaling in all cases. Root canal therapy was selectively performed in two dogs with fractured canine teeth and pulpal involvement. All dogs showed favourable clinical recovery without postoperative complications. The findings of this study highlight the significance of early diagnosis and comprehensive dental management in achieving successful outcomes in dogs affected with perio-endodontic lesions.
Fixation of lumbar vertebral fracture-luxation using spinal stapling and tension band wiring in young companion animals
Segmental spinal fixation for lumbar spinal injuries was performed in three young companion animals (rabbit, dog, and cat) presented with traumatic posterior limb paralysis. Neurological and radiographic examinations confirmed lumbar vertebral fracture–luxation at L1–L2 (cat), L2–L3 (dog), and L3–L4 (rabbit). Under general anaesthesia, fractures were reduced and stabilized using tension band wiring (dog and cat) and K-wire spinal stapling. K-wires were placed through the base of spinous processes and secured with orthopaedic wires to provide segmental stabilization. Nociception improved within 24 hr in the dog and rabbit. However, the dog and cat later died due to surgical site infection. The rabbit showed improved reflexes and general health but remained paraplegic.
Rush pinning for supracondylar femoral fracture in dogs
This study evaluated the clinical outcome of the Rush pinning technique in the management of supracondylar femur fractures in dogs. Six dogs, weighing from 6.8 to 14 kg and aged from 2 months to 5 years, were included in the study. All cases were surgically treated using the Rush pinning method. Postoperative assessment involved periodic clinical and radiographic evaluations over a follow-up period ranging from 3 to 16 weeks. Five out of the six dogs demonstrated uneventful recovery with satisfactory restoration of limb function, indicating that the Rush pinning technique is an effective treatment option for supracondylar femur fractures in dogs.
Intramedullary interlocking nailing for diaphyseal fractures of humerus in dogs: A clinical study
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of intramedullary interlocking nailing in the stabilization of diaphyseal humeral fractures in eight dogs. Preoperative clinical, orthopaedic, and neurological examinations revealed poor functional limb use accompanied by neuropraxia in all cases. Fractures were classified based on radiographic evaluation, followed by surgical stabilization using the intramedullary interlocking nailing technique. Postoperative management included administration of analgesics and antibiotics, along with temporary limb immobilization using a modified Robert Jones bandage. Postoperative assessment, based on clinical and radiographic findings, demonstrated excellent functional outcomes with improved range of motion in five dogs. Complications such as osteomyelitis, screw dislodgement, and implant breakage were observed in three cases; however, these did not significantly impair limb function. In conclusion, intramedullary interlocking nailing provided effective fracture stabilization and healing.
Total ear canal ablation with bulla osteotomy for management of end stage otitis externa-media in four dogs
This study reported the successful management of end-stage otitis externa-media in four dogs using total ear canal ablation (TECA) combined with bulla osteotomy and cure age. All animals were premedicated with atropine, butorphanol, and diazepam. General anaesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with isoflurane in oxygen. TECA with partial lateral bulla osteotomy was performed in all cases, followed by thorough cure age to ensure complete removal of infected and necrotic tissue. Postoperative care included administration of antibiotics, analgesics, and nervine tonics, along with daily antiseptic wound management. Follow-up evaluations over six weeks demonstrated complete clinical recovery in all dogs, with no observed complications such as facial nerve paralysis or fistula formation. These findings support TECA combined with bulla osteotomy and cure age as an effective and reliable surgical approach for the treatment of advanced otitis externa and media in dogs.
Ozonized autohemotherapy, a novel treatment for teat laceration with fistula in cows: A clinical study
The present study evaluated the effect of ozonized autohemotherapy (O3-AHT) on early, scarless teat wound healing in cows. A total of six lactating cows presented with teat wounds associated with fistula formation were included. Following thorough clinical examination, all animals were sedated with inj. xylazine (0.1 mg/kg body weight, i.v.), and a ring block was performed using 2% lignocaine hydrochloride. Patency of the teat canal was maintained by placing a size No. 10 infant feeding tube in situ. Under aseptic conditions, the mucosal and muscular layers were closed using a simple continuous suture pa ern with polyglactin 910 (size 3-0). Subsequently, 2 mL of whole blood collected from each animal was subjected to ozonation and administered subcutaneously at the surgical site. Skin closure was achieved using disposable stainless-steel staples, followed by protection with an adhesive bandage (Dynafix). Postoperatively, all animals received antibiotics, anti-inflammatory therapy, and intramammary treatment. Skin staples were removed on the 7 postoperative day, and wound healing was assessed through morphological and ultrasonographic evaluation. The findings suggest that O3 AHT is a promising complementary therapy to promote early tissue repair and regeneration in bovine teat injuries.
Refractive state using streak retinoscopy of phakic eyes in dogs
Refractometry was performed on 40 eyes of 20 clinically healthy dogs of different breeds and both sexes using a handheld streak retinoscope. Pupillary dilation was achieved with 1% cyclopentolate ophthalmic solution. Based on the net spherical refractive error, the eyes were classified as emmetropic (57.50%, n=23), hyperopic (12.50%, n=5), or myopic (30.00%, n=12). No significant difference was observed between the refractive errors of the right and left eyes (P=0.219). The mean net spherical refractive errors of both eyes indicated the overall refractive status of the dogs, revealing that 55% (n=11) were emmetropic, 30% (n=6) were myopic, and 15% (n=3) were hyperopic. Furthermore, a significant positive correlation was observed between refractive error and the age of the dogs (P=0.003).
Comparative evaluation of cardiac biomarkers and thoracic radiographic findings in dogs suffering from cardio-pulmonary affections
The objective of this study was to analyse clinical biomarkers and radiographic variability for detecting cardio-pulmonary affections in dogs. The study included two groups: group I (control) with six healthy dogs and group II (affected) with 23 dogs diagnosed with cardio-pulmonary conditions, irrespective of age, breed, and sex. Comprehensive haemato-biochemical analysis assessed parameters such as complete blood count, liver and kidney function tests, and electrolyte levels. Radiographic examinations identified structural and functional abnormalities in the heart and lungs. Group II exhibited significant deviations, including changes in haemoglobin concentration, white blood cell counts, and enzyme activities, along with notable radiographic abnormalities like cardiomegaly, pulmonary oedema, and pleural effusion. Integrating haemato-biochemical data and radiographic imaging provided a robust framework for the early detection and diagnosis of cardio-pulmonary diseases in dogs, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in veterinary diagnostics.
Spondylosis deformans and diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis in dogs: A radiographic study
The study involved eight dogs presented with a history of progressive pelvic limb ataxia, paraparesis or paraplegia, spinal hyperesthesia, back pain, and difficulty in walking or climbing stairs. Radiographic examinations were performed on all dogs. Based on clinical and radiographic findings, seven dogs (five males and two females) were diagnosed with spondylosis deformans (SD), while diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) was diagnosed in a 9-yr-old male non-descript dog. Large-breed dogs were more commonly affected. The diagnosis of SD was established using a four-point grading system that assessed the degree of enthesophyte development at each site. In contrast, DISH was identified by the presence of extensive bony outgrowths along the vertebrae, resulting in spinal stiffness and pain. DISH can be differentiated from SD by the location and extent of new bone formation, particularly its involvement of the ventral longitudinal ligament.
Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis
Evaluation of stainless steel and titanium miniplate systems for tibio-tarsus fracture stabilization in pigeons (Columba livia)
Twelve pigeons (Columba livia) presented with tibio-tarsal fractures were randomly and equally divided into two groups and treated using a bone plating technique. In one group, a 1.3 mm, 6-hole stainless steel miniplate was used, while in the other a 1.3 mm, 6-hole titanium miniplate was used for fixation. Fixation was performed via open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) under anaesthesia induced with xylazine HCl (3 mg/kg) and ketamine HCl (50 mg/kg). Clinical and radiographic healing were evaluated on days 7, 14, 28, 45, and 60. Fracture healing occurred through primary union in all cases. Weight bearing was achieved in all birds by day 10, and complete functional recovery was observed by day 21. Comparative evaluation revealed similar healing outcomes between the two groups; however, stainless steel miniplates were associated with fewer implant-related complications than titanium miniplates.
Radiographic morphometric characteristics of stie joint in orthopaedically healthy dogs
This study presents a morphometric analysis of the stifle joint in orthopaedically healthy dogs, with an emphasis on variations associated with body weight and breed size. A total of 37 dogs were included and categorised into distinct weight groups and breed size classifications. Key morphometric parameters including patellar length, patellar ligament length, cortical thickness, and muscle thickness, were measured and systematically analysed. The results revealed significant variations in morphometric measurements across different weight categories and breed sizes. Dogs of similar breed and body weight exhibited comparable morphometric values, whereas overall measurements increased with breed size, irrespective of body weight. These findings highlight the influence of breed size as a primary determinant of stifle joint morphology. The study underscores the importance of establishing standardised morphometric reference values in dogs. Such standardisation can aid in the accurate assessment of orthopaedic conditions, improve the evaluation of surgical outcomes, and facilitate the identification of abnormalities related to bone morphology.
Porcine skin graft for management of cutaneous wounds in dogs
Porcine skin has the potential to serve as a biocompatible dressing due to its structural similarities. This study standardized the processing of porcine skin grafts for use as biological bandages and evaluated their clinical efficacy in adult dogs with open cutaneous wounds, alongside optimized the preservation techniques to determine their viability. Grafts of varying sizes were prepared and stored under different conditions to assess viability. Clinical evaluation included wound contraction, histopathology, and immunological response, with outcomes compared to conventional bandaging. Preservation in PBS with 15% glycerol at < 18°C extended graft viability up to 24 days. Dogs treated with porcine skin grafts exhibited faster wound healing, with significant improvement observed as early as 12th day post-application, as compared to 48th day in control group. Histopathological findings supported enhanced tissue regeneration with minimal adverse immune reactions. The study concluded that porcine skin grafts are a suitable, therapeutic and economical alternative for open wound management in dogs.
Comparative evaluation of dexmedetomidine and tramadol as an adjunct to lignocaine for distal intravenous regional anaesthesia in buffalo calves
This study evaluated a novel distal intravenous regional anaesthesia (DIVRA) technique in buffalo calves using lignocaine combined with either dexmedetomidine or tramadol. Twelve buffalo calves of either sex, affected with various surgical hoof ailments, were randomly divided into two groups. Group I received lignocaine (2 mg/kg body weight) with dexmedetomidine (2.5 µg/kg), while group II received lignocaine (2 mg/kg) with tramadol (1 mg/kg) through the common axial digital vein. In group I, heart rate decreased for up to 50 min, whereas in group II the decrease persisted for 10 min. Pulse rate declined at 10 min in both groups. Respiratory rate decreased for 30 min in group I and for 50 min in group II. SpO₂ values showed a reduction up to 50 min in both groups. Systolic blood pressure fluctuated during the observation period, showing an initial decline in group I and increases at specific time intervals in group II. The onset of sensory and motor blockade was faster in group I, while recovery time was longer in group II. Overall, the findings indicated that lignocaine combined with dexmedetomidine provided more effective DIVRA compared to lignocaine combined with tramadol.
Oxidative stress studies in buffaloes undergoing inhalant and total intravenous anaesthesia
The study was conducted on 18 female buffaloes diagnosed with diaphragmatic hernia, which were randomly allocated into three groups (n=6 each). All animals were premedicated with atropine sulphate, xylazine hydrochloride, and butorphanol, followed by anaesthetic induction with thiopentone sodium. Anaesthesia was maintained using a thiopentone continuous rate infusion in the TT group, isoflurane in the TI group, and sevoflurane in the TS group, all delivered via a partial rebreathing system. Enzymatic and non-enzymatic oxidative stress markers, along with antioxidant parameters, were evaluated at six different time points. The results indicated that total intravenous anaesthesia was associated with a lower degree of physiological stress compared to inhalant anaesthesia using either isoflurane or sevoflurane in buffaloes undergoing diaphragmatic herniorrhaphy.
Comparative evaluation of postoperative pain in dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy after continuous rate infusion of lignocaine alone, and in combination with dexmedetomidine
The present study aimed to compare the postoperative analgesic effects of lignocaine alone and in combination with dexmedetomidine in 18 female dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy. The animals were randomly divided into three groups (n=6 each). Premedication was done using atropine sulphate followed by midazolam, and anaesthesia was induced and maintained with 1% propofol in all animals. In the control group (O), a normal saline infusion was maintained. In group L, a loading dose of lignocaine followed by continuous rate infusion (CRI) was administered, whereas in group LD, a loading dose of lignocaine combined with dexmedetomidine followed by their CRI was given throughout the surgery. Pain assessment was performed using the UMPS and GCMPS-SF pain scales. The results indicated that intraoperative administration of lignocaine, both alone and in combination with dexmedetomidine, significantly reduced postoperative pain in dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy, with a greater analgesic effect observed when lignocaine was combined with dexmedetomidine.
A multidimensional impact assessment of hands-on training in fracture fixation for veterinary practitioners
An impact analysis was conducted on 210 veterinary professionals from 17 Indian states and Nepal who participated in a series of 12 hands-on training programmes on various fracture fixation techniques, held between March 2017 and January 2024. Participants included veterinary officers, private practitioners, university faculty, and recent graduates. The objective was to enhance theoretical knowledge and practical skills in fracture management. Training effectiveness was evaluated both immediately (178 respondents) and in the long term (127 respondents, 6 months to 7 years post-training). Post-training assessments showed a 25% improvement in subject knowledge (from 54% to 79%). Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with 96% rating the programme as excellent or very good, and 92.7% finding it highly relevant. Instructor ratings were similarly high. Long-term feedback confirmed sustained impact: over 95% rated the training as excellent or very good, and 98.4% felt the objectives were fully met. Participants reported significant gains in surgical skills, confidence, and clinical application. Many successfully treated 50 to over 1,000 fracture cases, improving animal welfare outcomes. Financially, more than 80% reported increased monthly income post-training, with some earning up to `1 lakh, and a few earning between `1–10 lakh or more. Additionally, 78% shared their knowledge with peers, extending the programme's impact. In conclusion, these training programmes significantly advanced veterinary surgical capabilities, improved economic outcomes, and enhanced animal welfare. They serve as an effective model for skill-based capacity building in the veterinary sector.
Integrated stress response and postoperative neuroinflammation in veterinary surgery: Therapeutic perspectives
Postoperative inflammation and pain remain major challenges in veterinary surgery, significantly affecting tissue healing, recovery time, and overall patient welfare. Surgical trauma activates a complex physiological response involving neuroendocrine stimulation, inflammatory mediator release, oxidative stress, and immune dysregulation. Central to these processes is the Integrated Stress Response (ISR), a highly conserved intracellular signaling pathway that regulates cellular adaptation during physiological stress. Activation of ISR-associated pathways, particularly PERK-eIF2-ATF4 signaling, initially promotes cellular survival and restoration of proteostasis; however, prolonged activation may contribute to apoptosis, neuroinflammation, delayed healing, and chronic pain sensitization. Current perioperative management in veterinary medicine primarily relies on multimodal analgesic protocols including NSAIDs, opioids, alpha-2 adrenergic agonists, NMDA receptor antagonists, and local anaesthetics. Although these therapies effectively reduce nociceptive signaling and inflammation, they are often associated with adverse effects such as gastrointestinal toxicity, renal injury, immunosuppression, and delayed tissue repair. Consequently, recent research has increasingly focused on targeted pharmacological approaches that modulate upstream cellular stress pathways and inflammatory signaling networks. Emerging therapies such as ISR modulators, antioxidant compounds, anti-cytokine strategies, and immunomodulatory agents show promise in reducing oxidative injury, preserving cellular homeostasis, and improving perioperative outcomes. Advances in precision perioperative medicine, including biomarker guided analgesia, opioid-sparing anaesthesia, and species specific multimodal protocols, may further enhance recovery and minimize postoperative complications in veterinary patients. Understanding the molecular interactions between surgical stress, neuroinflammation, and ISR activation could provide novel therapeutic targets for improving pain management, accelerating wound healing, and optimizing welfare across diverse veterinary species.
Revisiting training needs in veterinary surgery in India
Urinary bladder retroflexion due to vaginal prolapse in a dog
Chest tube placement for management of traumatic pneumothorax in a bully dog