Anna Michalska

A 9‐year‐old male dog was diagnosed with lateral gastrocnemius head avulsion based on orthopaedic examination and diagnostic imaging. Anatomical reattachment was achieved using bone tunnels in the lateral femoral condyle with augmentation via an autogenous tensor fascia lata flap harvested from the ipsilateral thigh. Temporary tibio‐metatarsal plate fixation provided rigid immobilisation during early healing. Postoperative management included extracorporeal shockwave therapy and autologous conditioned plasma injections. Follow‐up at 6 and 8 weeks, then 1 and 1.5 years demonstrated progressive improvement and complete return to pre‐injury limb function. The successful outcome in this singular case illustrates how this multimodal strategy may represent an effective solution for complex high‐tension injuries.

Aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) are benign but locally aggressive osteolytic lesions that are rarely reported in dogs and may progress or recur following surgical treatment. This case report describes the diagnosis, surgical management, postoperative progression, and long-term outcome of an ABC affecting the left ulna of a four-month-old Labrador Retriever. Radiography and computed tomography revealed a rapidly progressive, expansile osteolytic lesion with marked cortical thinning. Histopathological examination supported the diagnosis of ABC, with no evidence of malignancy. Initial treatment consisted of corticotomy, intralesional curettage, autologous bone grafting, and stabilization of the cortical segment with lag screws. Despite complete clinical resolution of lameness, surveillance radiographs six weeks postoperatively demonstrated progression of the lesion proximal to the original surgical site. Revision surgery involving a larger cortical window and more extensive curettage was subsequently performed, followed by bone grafting. Histopathology again confirmed ABC without malignant transformation. The dog regained normal limb function, and serial radiographic and computed tomographic examinations demonstrated progressive osseous remodeling with no evidence of further progression or recurrence through 35 months of follow-up. This case highlights the importance of adequate surgical excision and scheduled postoperative imaging, as ABC progression may occur despite apparent clinical recovery.

Objective: To describe the application of a cell saver device (CSD) to manage blood loss in dogs and cats. Study design: Retrospective study. Animals: A total of 102 client‐owned dogs and one cat. Methods: Medical records were reviewed for all animals in which autotransfusion using blood generated by the CSD was used. Data retrieved included signalment, surgical details, blood test results, degree of blood loss, blood collection method, transfusion volume, timing of administration, additional blood products used, variations in packed cell volume (PCV), and incidence of transfusion reactions. Short‐term complications and overall outcome were assessed by telephone follow‐up. Results: There were 103 autotransfusions performed, during emergency ( n = 40) and elective ( n = 63) procedures. The mean transfusion volume was 14 mL/kg. For every 1 mL of blood transfused per kilogram of bodyweight, PCV increased by approximately 0.6%. Allogeneic blood products (ABPs) were used in addition to autologous blood in 14% of cases. The transfusion reaction rate associated with autotransfusion was 1%. Conclusion: The use of a CSD appeared safe and versatile for management of blood loss in dogs. The inclusion of only a single feline case highlights the need for further studies evaluating the safety and efficacy of this technique in cats. Clinical significance: Autotransfusion using a CSD is applicable in a wide range of emergency and elective surgeries, presenting an alternative to ABPs.