Browsing by Author "Rajankutty, K"
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ThesisItem Open Access Clinical and serum biochemical evaluation in surgery for alimentary tract obstruction in dogs(Department of Surgery, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2001) Shejo Jose; KAU; Rajankutty, KThe study was carried out in selected clinical cases of alimentary tract obstructions in twelve dogs of either sex and different breeds, presented to the clinics of the college. These animals were divided into two groups viz. Group I and Group II, each consisting of six animals. Group 1- Dogs with obstructions of upper alimentary tract (oesophagus, stomach, duodenum and jejunum). Group II - Dogs with obstructions of lower alimentary tract (ileum, caecum, colon and rectum). In Group I the obstructions were due to bone pieces, granite stone, cloth piece, partial torsion of stomach and pyloric stenosis. In Group II the obstructions were due to corkscrew, ileocolic intussusception, cloth pieces and faecoliths. The obstructions due to foreign bodies were 50 per cent, with faecoliths were 25 per cent and due to anatomical alterations and malpositions of gastrointestinal tract were 25 per cent. In upper alimentary tract obstruction (Group I), the predominant clinical sign was vomiting. Frequency of vomiting was more than four times a day and vomitus was either frothy or white in colour. Pain on abdominal palpation and constipation were the other symptoms noticed. Respiration rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total leukocyte count, lymphocyte count and blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, total serum protein and serum albumin levels were higher than the normal range, preoperatively. The packed cell volume, total erythrocyte count, haemoglobin concentration and serum sodium, potassium and chloride levels were lower than the normal range, preoperatively. The pulse rate, rectal temperature, neutrophil count, monocyte count and alanine transferase, aspartate transferase levels were within the normal range, preoperatively. In lower alimentary tract obstruction (Group II), constipation was the prominent symptom observed. The faeces was either tarry or blood tinged. The frequency of vomiting was three times or less a day and vomitus was either frothy or yellowish in colour with presence of partially digested food materials. Pain on abdominal palpation was noticed in five animals. The systolic and diastolic blood pressure, neutrophil count and blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, serum albumin, aspartate transferase, alanine transferase levels were higher than the normal range, preoperatively. The packed cell volume, total erythrocyte count, monocyte count and serum sodium, potassium and chloride levels were lower than the normal range preoperatively. The respiration rate, pulse rate, rectal temperature, total leukocyte count, haemoglobin concentration, lymphocyte count and total serum protein level were within the normal range, preoperatively. Plain radiography was found useful for identifying the obstruction in the alimentary tract caused by radio opaque materials. Contrast radiography using barium meal revealed seats of obstructions due to radiolucent foreign bodies and anatomical alterations.ThesisItem Open Access Clinical evaluation of Propofol - Isoflurane anaesthesia with Xylazine premedication in dogs(Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary and Animal Science , Mannuthy, 2008) Soumya, Ramankutty; KAU; Rajankutty, KThe study was conducted in twelve dogs of different breeds of either sex presented to the Veterinary College Hospitals at Mannuthy and Kokkalai, for various surgical procedures. Healthy animals presented for elective surgeries were included in Group I and those compromised animals for emergency surgery, were included in Group II. To the animals of both the groups, glycopyrrolate at the rate of 0.01 mg per kg body weight, followed by xylazine at the rate of 1 mg/kg body weight, at 15 minutes interval, were administered intramuscularly for premedication. Fifteen minutes later, propofol 1% emulsion at the rate of 4 mg per kg body weight was administered by intravenous bolus injection for induction of anaesthesia. Anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane at three per cent level in pure oxygen at the rate of 10 ml/kg bodyweight by Bain’s circuit system utilizing isoflurane vapourizer. The common clinical signs exhibited by the animals following premedication with glycopyrrolate-xylazine were winking of the eye, licking, yawning, incoordination of movements and sitting on haunches followed by sternal recumbency with head down posture within 15 minutes. Among these two groups, five animals vomited and only one animal assumed the position of lateral recumbency. Salivation was scanty in all the animals. Time for induction of anaesthesia was 1.11 ± 0.25 and 0.83 ± 0.15 minutes following intravenous bolus injection of propofol in Group I and II respectively. Induction of anesthesia was smooth in all the animals and permitted easy endotracheal intubation. Apnoea persisting for a period of about one minute was noticed in a few animals. The duration of anaesthesia was 29.66 ± 6.05 and 35.85 ± 16.86 in Group I and II respectively.The depth of anaesthesia and the degree of muscle relaxation were satisfactory in all the animals. With this anaesthetic regimen the surgeries performed in Group I were oophorectomy (4), operation for aural haematoma (1) and resection of mammary tumour (1), and in Group II were eventration due to disruption of surgical wound (1), caesarean section (2), ovario-hysterectomy for pyometra (2) and resection of lipoma in a debilitated dog(1) in Group II. The recovery time was 27.50 ± 10.36 and 27.66 ± 11.79 in Group I and II respectively. All the animals had smooth and uneventful recovery from anaesthesia. Decrease in respiratory rate and rectal temperature was noticed after premedication, during anaesthesia and recovery in the animals of both the groups. But the pulse rate was seen increased. The colour of visible mucous membrane was pale roseate in all animals of both the groups throughout the period of study, except in one animal in which it was pale. There was increase in the capillary refill time in animals of both the groups. There was increase in the oxygen saturation level during anaesthesia and recovery in both the groups. Electrocardiographic changes noticed were tachycardia, first-degree heart block, second-degree heart block, sinus arrest, S-T segment depression, peaked T wave and ventricular premature contractions. All these changes were spontaneously corrected during the recovery period Increase in erythrocyte sedimentation rate was noticed during anaesthesia and recovery, in animals of Group I, whereas there was decrease in Group II. Both haemoglobin concentration and volume of packed red cells were seen decreased. There was significant decrease in total leukocyte count after premedication, during anaesthesia and recovery in both the groups. The neutrophil and monocyte count were seen increased after premedication, during anaesthesia and recovery, but the lymphocyte count was decreased. The variations in eosinophil count were marginal. There was increase in serum glucose, blood urea nitrogen, aspartate amino transferase and alanine amino transferase levels, and potassium and chloride concentrations after premedication, during anaesthesia, at recovery and at 24 hours in animals of both the groups. The total protein content, creatinine level and sodium concentration were seen decreased. Post anaesthetic and postoperative complications were not observed in any of the animals.ThesisItem Open Access Clinical evaluation of the comparative effect of xylazine and xylazine-ketamine premedication in thiopentone anaesthesia in dogs(Department of Veterinery Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2006) Philip, Varghese; KAU; Rajankutty, KThe study was carried out in 12 dogs of different breeds of either sex, presented to the College Hospitals at Mannuthy and Kokkalai for various elective surgical procedures. All dogs were clinically examined before the administration of the anaesthetics. These dogs were randomly divided into two groups, viz. Group I and Group II, each consisting of six dogs. They were numbered serially from 1 to 6. Atropine sulphate at the rate of 0.045 mg/kg body weight was administered intramuscularly, 15 minutes prior to the administration of xylazine/xylazine-ketamine combination. In Group I, xylazine at the rate of 1.0 mg/kg body weight was administered intramuscular for premedication. Fifteen minutes later, thiopentone sodium 2.5% solution was administered intravenously “to effect” general anaesthesia. In Group II, xylazine at the rate of 1.0 mg/kg body weight and ketamine at the rate of 2.5 mg/kg body weight was administered intramuscularly as a combined injection for premedication. Fifteen minutes later, thiopentone sodium 2.5% solution was administered intravenously “to effect” general anaesthesia. In both the groups, incremental doses of thiopentone were also administered for the maintenance of anaesthesia for completing the surgery. The dogs were subjected to various surgical operations. After premedication yawning, winking of eyes, incoordination of hindquarters were the more commonly observed symptoms in both the groups. Other symptoms noticed were vomiting (in two dogs), licking (in seven dogs) and urination (in three dogs). In both the groups, two dogs each assumed lateral recumbency and others were in sternal recumbency with head down posture. Salivation was scanty in both the groups. Side to side movement of head was noticed in most of the dogs which were premedicated with xylazine-ketamine combination and was absent in dogs which were premedicated with xylazine alone. The induction time was 6.83 ± 1.40 and 5.10 ± 1.29 minutes in Group I and Group II respectively. The duration of anaesthesia with first induction of thiopentone was 11.67 ± 3.90 and 12.50 ± 2.64 minutes in Group I and Group II respectively. The duration of anaesthesia was more in dogs premedicated with xylazine-ketamine combination than with xylazine alone. With repeated administration of thiopentone an average 13.63 ± 3.76 and 32.17 ± 5.39 minutes duration of anaesthesia was achieved with every incremental doses in Group I and Group II respectively. In xylazine-ketamine premedication the duration of anaesthesia was prolonged more than with xylazine premedication alone. It was also observed that the duration of anaesthesia in subsequent administration resulted for longer duration when ketamine was included for premedication. Recovery time was 124.00 ± 48.55 and 89.83 ± 43.12 minutes in Group I and Group II respectively. The recovery time was shorter in dogs premedicated with xylazine-ketamine combination in thiopentone anaesthesia. For the first induction of anaesthesia, the quantity of thiopentone required was 9.31 ± 1.87 and 9.72 ± 1.23 mg/kg body weight in Group I and Group II respectively. The requirement of thiopentone was reduced to a greater extent in both the groups, but was slightly higher with xylazine-ketamine premedication. The average incremental quantities of thiopentone administration was 3.83 ± 1.10 and 5.59 ± 1.43 mg/kg body weight for prolonging anaesthesia in Group I and Group II respectively. The incremental quantities of thiopentone required was more in dogs which were premedicated with xylazine-ketamine for prolonging the anaesthesia. The average muscle relaxation time was 50.67 ± 9.01 and 54.50 ± 7.32 minutes in Group I and Group II respectively. The muscle relaxation time was more prolonged when xylazine was combined with ketamine for premedication in thiopentone anaesthesia. The degree of muscle relaxation was moderate to excellent in both the groups. The surgical operations viz., oopherectomy, correction of rectovaginal fistula, enterotomy, Zepp’s operation, ovariohysterectomy, operation for aural haematoma were carried out satisfactorily. The duration of surgery varied from 20 to 58 and 20 to 61 minutes in Group I and Group II respectively. There was decrease in rectal temperature, pulse rate and respiration rate in both the groups. The decrease in rectal temperature and pulse rate was significant in dogs which were premedicated with xylazine-ketamine combination. There was significant increase in systolic and diastolic pressures in both the groups. There was elevation of heart rate after the administration of atropine sulphate in all the dogs and it was reduced after premedication with both xylazine and xylazine-ketamine combination in thiopentone anaesthesia. There was wandering pacemaker in one dog which got corrected after xylazine-ketamine premedication. Decrease in PR interval was observed after the administration of atropine but it was slightly increased after administration of xylazine and thiopentone. There was decrease in packed cell volume in both the groups and the decrease was significant in dogs which were premedicated with xylazine-ketamine combination. The variations in haemoglobin concentration were marginal in dogs which were premedicated with xylazine alone, but there was significant decrease in haemoglobin concentration in dogs which were premedicated in xylazine-ketamine combination. Decrease in total erythrocyte and total leukocyte counts was noticed in both the groups. Increase in neutrophil with decreased lymphocyte count was observed in dogs which were premedicated with xylazine but, in dogs which were premedicated with xylazine-ketamine combination there was decrease in neutrophil count with increase in lymphocyte count. The variations in monocyte and eosinophil counts were marginal in both the groups. There was increase in serum sodium and serum potassium concentrations, and serum total protein content in both the groups. The serum albumin/globulin ratio was decreased in both the groups. All the dogs had smooth uneventful recovery without any complications, though most of the dogs were drowsy till next day.ThesisItem Open Access Comparative efficacy of xylazine-ketamine premedication on propofol anasthesia for caesarean section in dogs(Department of Veterinery Anatomy and Histology, College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Mannuthy, 2006) Ranjith Mohan, M; KAU; Rajankutty, KA study was conducted to evaluate the comparative efficacy of xylazine and xylazine-ketamine premedication on propofol anaesthesia in twelve female dogs of different breeds subjected to caesarean section at the Veterinary College Hospitals at Mannuthy and Kokkalai. All the dogs were clinically examined and were randomly divided into two group’s viz. Group I and Group II, each consisting of six dogs. They were serially numbered from 1 to 6. To all the dogs, glycopyrrolate at the dose rate of 0.01 mg/kg bodyweight was administered intramuscularly, 15 minutes prior to the administration of preanaesthetic drug (s). In Group I, Xylazine at the rate of 0.5mg/kg bodyweight and in Group II, Xylazine at the rate of 0.5mg/kg and ketamine at the rate of 2.5mg/kg bodyweight as a combined injection was administered intramuscularly for premedication. In both the groups, fifteen minutes later, propofol 1% emulsion was administered by intravenous bolus injection for the induction of general anaesthesia. Thereafter, 20 ml 1% propofol emulsion was mixed with 180 ml of normal saline solution (i.e. 1 ml contains 1 mg propofol) and was administered intravenously at the rate of 6 drops / kg / min (0.4mg propofol / kg /min.) for maintenance of anaesthesia till the surgical manipulations were completed. Endotracheal intubation was carried out in all the dogs for maintaining the airway patency. The dogs were subjected to caesarean section. Following premedication with xylazine/xylazine-ketamine combination, clinical symptoms like winking of eyes, yawning and incoordination of movements with lowering of head were noticed in the dogs of both the groups. The other common symptoms noticed were vomiting (in three dogs), and licking (in seven dogs) during induction and urination (in seven dogs) during recovery. In both the groups, all the dogs assumed sternal recumbency with head down posture. In the present study, salivation was scanty in both the groups. The induction time was 2.23 ± 1.04 and 2.11 ± 1.08 minutes in Group I and Group II respectively. Duration of anaesthesia was 49.77 ± 1.01 and 50.35 ± 1.07 minutes in Group I and Group II respectively, depending up on the time taken for completing the surgical procedures. Degree of muscle relaxation was moderate to good in Group I and good to excellent in Group II. Quantity of propofol administered for induction was 76.66 ± 2.11 and 92.76 ± 3.21 and for maintenance it was 188.31 ± 5.06 and 193.58 ± 5.13 milligrams in Group I and Group II respectively. Time required for surgical operation was 52.00 ± 1.02 and 53.01 ± 1.11 minutes in Group I and Group II respectively. Recovery time was 17.66 ± 1.81 and 22.68 ± 2.01 minutes in Group I and Group II respectively. There was a decrease in rectal temperature, respiration rate, and heart rate following the premedication and after the administration of propofol in both the groups. But the pulse rate was decreased following the premedication and increased during propofol anaesthesia in both the groups. The conjunctival mucous membrane was congested before, after premedication and till complete recovery and was pale roseate by 24 hours after administration of propofol. There was a decrease in the volume of packed red cells, haemoglobin concentration, and total leukocyte count following the premedication and after the administration of propofol in both the groups. There was an increase in the neutrophil count with decrease in lymphocyte count after premedication and decrease in the lymphocyte count with increase in neutrophil count following administration of propofol in both the groups. The variations in monocyte and eosinophil counts were marginal in both the groups. The basophil count was zero throughout the period of study. There was a decrease in the serum sodium and serum potassium concentration after premedication and increase after the administration of propofol in both the groups. The changes were marginal and within the normal limits. There was an increase in the serum total protein content with decrease in albumin/globulin ratio after premedication and a decrease in serum total protein content with a gradual increase in albumin/globulin ratio after the administration of propofol in both the groups. Total number of puppies delivered was 65 from twelve female dogs subjected to caesarean section. Out of the 38 puppies delivered, 29 were live and nine were dead in Group I. Out of the 27 puppies delivered, 20 were live and seven were dead in Group II. In Group I, all the 29 live puppies were active and cried crying within two minutes. In Group II, out of the 20 live puppies, nine were active and cried immediately, but 11 puppies were sluggish and depressed and took 5-10 minutes for revival. But the four puppies delivered from pug died within 24 hours. All the dogs had an uneventful recovery from anaesthesia and were without any postoperative complications.ThesisItem Open Access Contrast radiography for the diagnosis of gastric disorders in dogs(Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Mannuthy, 2005) Dileepkumar, K M; KAU; Rajankutty, KThe study was carried out in twelve dogs of different breeds, age and either sex, with the history of gastric problems presented to the Veterinary Hospitals of the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at Mannuthy and Kokkalai. These animals were randomly divided into two groups viz., Group I and Group II, each consisting of six animals. The trials were carried out as follows: In group 1, 25 % of barium sulphate suspension at the rate of 5 ml per kg. body weight was administered orally. In group II, 25 % barium sulphate suspension at the rate of 3 ml/kg. body weight followed by air at the rate of 2 to 10 ml /kg. body weight was administered into the stomach with a flexible polythene tube, after a survey radiography of the anterior abdomen. Manual control of the animals were sufficient for oral administration of barium sulphate suspension when it was used alone. But sedation with intramuscular administration of triflupromazine at the rate of 2 mg/kg. body weight was found satisfactory for easy administration of barium sulphate suspension followed by air into the stomach, through the flexible polythene tube. General appearances of the animals were weak, dull or alert according to the severity of the problem. The prominent clinical symptoms noticed in the animals were anorexia, vomiting, reduced water intake, occasional diarrhoea and pain on palpation of the abdomen. In most of the cases, the vomitus was yellowish. In three cases, which were diagnosed as gastric ulcers and gastric torsion, the vomitus was blood tinged. Diarrhoea was noticed in three cases in which diarrhoea was manifested, two cases were diagnosed as gastric ulcers and one was adenocarcinoma of the pylorus. The appearance of the abdomen was tucked up, tensed or flaccid depending on the type of the gastric problems. Palpation of the abdomen elicited pain in six animals and the presence of a palpable mass in one animal, which was later diagnosed as a case of radiolucent foreign body in the intestine. The variations observed in rectal temperature, pulse rate and respiratory rate, and colour of conjunctival mucous membrane were suggestive of the severity of gastric problems. Packed cell volume was below normal in eight animals. Haemoglobin concentration was below the normal limit in one animal, which was suffering from gastric dilatation and volvulus. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate was within the normal range. Total leukocyte count was below normal in two animals and above normal in two animals. Total erythrocyte count was below normal in three animals. Reduction in packed cell volume and decreased total erythrocyte count with neutrophilia in cases of gastric impaction, gastric dilatation, gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) indicating anaemia and stress to the animal. Differential leukocytic count revealed leukocytosis with neutrophilia in gastric ulcers and reduction in packed cell volume and decrease in leukocytes with lymphocytosis in pyloric adenoma and gastric displacement. The severity and chronicity of the localized/ generalised inflammatory reaction were evident from these observations.Animal in which the condition was diagnosed as pyloric adenocarcinoma, the radiographic observations were delayed gastric emptying, sacculation at pyloric antrum, thickening and irregularities of the pyloric musculature with subserosal fluid collection of stomach wall. In the case which was diagnosed as gastric dilatation and volvulus, the radiographic features noticed were highly distended stomach with gas and delayed gastric emptying with the accumulation of contrast material at the pylorus. The case, which was, diagnosed as gastric displacement it was seen that the stomach was pushed cranially by the distended intestinal loops. In the case of gastric torsion, radiographic lesions observed was accumulation of barium meal in the pylorus as well as in the pyloric canal without any sign of gastric emptying. In the case of gastric ulcer, gastric emptying was normal and the area of decreased density in the stomach towards the pylorus, may be due to the localized reaction. In gastric erosions the borders of the stomach were appeared uneven at the region. In the case of impaction of the stomach and oesophagus due to plastic threads and electric wires, the barium meal flow was seen blocked by the middle of thoracic oesophagus and hence there was only slight radioopacity in the body of the stomach.From the study it could be seen that both contrast radiography with barium sulphate and combination of barium sulphate suspension and room air were useful for identifying radiolucent foreign bodies in the stomach, gastric tumours, gastric ulcers, pyloric obstruction, gastric dilatation and volvulus, displacement of the stomach, gastric torsion and impaction of the stomach. Though both the techniques were useful for studies related to gastric emptying, barium meal alone was advised. Since the technique was simple and accurate, require no need of anaesthesia and not associated with complications like aspiration. For gastric impaction studies, combination of barium sulphate suspension and air was not found feasible. For studying architecture of gastric mucous membrane combined use of both contrast materials were found to be useful.ThesisItem Open Access General anasthesia in dogs with Tiletamine-Zolazepam(Department of Surgery, College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Mannuthy, 1995) Rajankutty, K; KAU; Muraleedharan, Nair K NThe present study was undertaken to findout the efficacy of tiletamine – zolazepam alone and with xylazine premedication for anaesthesia in dogs and to evaluate the systemic changes consequent on the administration of these drugs. The experimental study was conducted on 36 adult non- descript dogs of either sex. The animals were randomly divided into two groups, (Group I and II ) consisting of 18 animals each. Each group was further divided into three subgroups, viz A, B and C, consisting of six animals each. Atopine sulphate (0.04 mg/kg bodyweight) was administered IM 15 minutes prior to the administration of the experimental drugs in all the dogs. Tiletamine – zolazepam (T-Z) combination was administered IM at the rate of 5mg, 10 mg and 15 mg/kg bodyweight in the subgroups IA, IB and IC respectively. Xylazine at the rate of 0.5 mg/kg bodyweight and 15 later, T-Z combination at the rate of 5 mg, 10 mg and 15mg/kg bodyweight were administered IM in the subgroups IIA , IIB and IIC respectively. The induction time was 6.17 + 1.01 min, 4.33 + 0.21 min and 4.33 + 0.49 min in subgroups IA, IB and IC respectively, and 3.33 + 0.62 min, 3.17 + 0.48 min and 2.83 + 0.54 min in subgroups IIA, IIB and IIC respectively. Increase in the dose of T-Z reduced the induction time and premedication with xylazine further reduced the induction time and induction was smooth. The onset of effect of tiletamine – zolazepm was characterized by the winking of eyes, yawning, licking and protrusion of tongue. The eyes remained open and pupils were slightly dilated. The palpebral and pedal reflexes and swallowing movements were not abolished. Salivation was scanty in both the groups. In the animals of group II the eyes were partially closed and palpebral and pedal reflexes were abolished but the swallowing movements were not. Protrusion of tongue, though present, was not to the extent that was observed in the animals of group I. Rhythmic side to side head movements were noticed during induction in all the animals of group I but not in animals of Group II. The duration of anaesthesia was 33.67 +5.88 min, 57.83 + 6.17 min, and 89.00 +2.86 min in subgroups IA, IB and IC respectively, whereas it was for 49.67 + 6.643 min, 105.17 + 10.31 min AND 125.83 + 10.78 min in subgroups IIA, IIB and IIC respectively. An increase in the dose of tiletamine – zolazepam had prolonged the duration of anaesthesia and premedication with xylazine produced still longer duration of anaesthesia. The jaw musculature maintained the tonus with the lower doses of tiletamine – zolazepm, but at 15 mg/kg bodyweight, the jaw muscles, though not fully relaxed, permitted endotracheal intubation. Administration of tiletamine – zolazepam with xylazine resulted in relaxation of the jaw muscles and permitted endotracheal intubation. Relaxation of the abdominal muscles was moderate to good when tiletamine – zolazepam alone was administered, whereas it was excellent with xylazine premedication. Administration of tiletamine – zolazepam alone was found insufficient for carrying out surgical procedures, but with xylazine premedication muscle relaxation and analgesia was satisfactory. The recovery time was 111.50 + 14.53 min, 116.50 + 10.46 min and 180.33 + 10.57 min in subgroups IA,IB and IC respectively, and it was 160.00 + 17.70 min, 180.00 + 14.94 min and 181.06 + 12.82 min in subgroups IIA, IIB and IIC respectively. Increase in the dose of tiletamine – zolazepam had delayed recovery and xylazine premedication delayed it still further. During recovery, paddling and vocalization were common in dogs of group I but not in dogs of group II. Reduction in rectal temperature was observed only in animals of subgroups IB and IC and in all the animals of Group II. Marked increase in pulse rate was observed in group I than in Group II. Respiration rate was decreased in both the groups. A mild increase in diastolic pressure was observed in Group I. The systolic and diastolic pressure were seen decreased in Group II. The changes in the coagulation time of blood was within the normal limits in both the groups. Increase in heart rate with depression of T-wave, biphasic T-wave and spiking of T-wave were the changes in electrocardiogram. But the changes were corrected spontaneously. There was slight decrease in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate in animals of group I but there was no change in Group II. Reduction in the packed cell volume was observed in both the groups, but it was more, after xylazine premedication. Slight decrease in haemoglobin concentration was noticed in subgroup IC. But there was no change in Group II. Decrease in total erythrocyte count was noticed in both the group and the decrease was more when premedicated with xylazine. The total leukocyte count was seen increased in subgroup IA and IB but it was seen decreased in subgroup IC, but there was no change in group II. Decrease in lymphocyte count with increase in neutrophil count was observed in subgroups IA and IIA. In subgroups IB and IC there were increase in lymphocyte count with decrease in neutrophil count, but in subgroups IIB and IIC a decrease or no alteration in the count of lymphocytes was observed. Monocyte and eosinophil counts were increased and the basophil count remained insignificant. There was marked increase in the serum glucose value following the the administration of tiletamine – zolazepam and with xylazine premedication the increase was more. No significant change was observed in the serum electrolytes (Na+, K+, and Cl-), total serum protein content and serum urea nitrogen value in both the groups. Slight increase in serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) values were observed in Group I,and in Group II there was increase in AST value, but the ALT value decreased initially and was followed by an increase. Histopathological examination of liver revealed cloudy swelling and mild fatty changes and kidney revealed cystic dilation of the renal tubules along with focal areas of nephrosis.ThesisItem Open Access Intra-articular antimicrobial therapy and lavage for the management of arthritis in claves(Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2008) Ganesh, G; KAU; Rajankutty, KThe present study was carried out in twelve calves affected with arthritis under six months of age belonging to either sex, presented to the College Veterinary Hospitals at Mannuthy and Kokkalai. Based on the nature of synovia, whether it was non-purulent or purulent, the calves were divided into two groups viz. Group I and II, each consisting of six calves and were serially numbered from 1 to 6. Animals in Group I were treated by intra-articular antimicrobial therapy and in Group II by lavaging the affected joint with ten per cent DMSO using ‘through-and-through’ needle technique with supplementation of parentral antibiotic therapy to the animals of both the groups. Both male and female, Holstein-Friesian cross and Jersey cross bred calves with age group ranging from five days to two months were presented. In all the calves, the knee joint was affected, either unilaterally or bilaterally. Out of the 12 calves, four had the history of umbilical infection and in which the umbilical cords were torn naturally at the time of birth and the stumps were left untreated. The duration of illness ranged from two days to one week. The affected joints were swollen, warm to touch and evidenced pain on palpation with difficulty in flexing the joint. In a few calves purulent exudation was coming out. In Group I, all the calves recovered within five days of treatment except one which also got recovered, but only after two months. In Group II, promising recovery was observed in two calves within fifteen days of observation and in one recovery with persistent ankylosis, while two calves succumbed during the observation period. The mean rectal temperature, pulse rate, respiratory rate, haemoglobin concentration and VPRC were found within normal range in both the groups, throughout the period of study. The mean total leukocyte count was higher before treatment in both the groups and it was within the normal range from the fifth and fifteenth day of observation in Group I and II respectively. The neutrophil count was higher and the lymphocyte count was lower before treatment and almost reached towards normal range by the fifteenth day of observation in both the groups. The serum glucose and alkaline phosphatase levels were within the normal range throughout the period of observation in both the groups. In Group I, the synovia was yellowish, odourless and with normal to fair mucin clot quality and prolonged clotting time. In Group II, it was turbid yellow with flocculent materials and pungent odour (in two cases) with fair to very poor mucin clot quality and quickened clotting time. The mean glucose levels were within the normal range in Group I and lower in Group II. But the mean alkaline phosphatase level was observed to be higher than the levels obtained in serum in both the groups. Escherichia coli was the major organism isolated from two samples of synovial fluid among the twelve samples collected and gentamicin was sensitive in one isolate, while Sulphadiazine in the other one. In Group I, the affected joints were without any characteristic radiographic abnormalities except for the increase in soft tissue density due to soft tissue swelling. Whereas in Group II lesions identified were widened joint space, intra-articular gas shadow, subchondral osteolysis and blurring of normal bone outline. There were not many variations in the fifteenth day post-treatment radiographs. Histopathology of affected joint was performed in two calves which succumbed during the observation period. Macroscopic examination revealed considerable swelling of joint with pus and degeneration of articular cartilage. Microscopic examination revealed thick hyalinised fibrocollagenous tissue, areas of haemorrhage with many congested blood vessels. Some areas appeared like abscess wall of which was formed by inflammatory granulation tissue. One section showed bony tissue with degenerating bony trabeculae. Periosteum and adjacent tissues showed extensive necrosis and abscess formation.ThesisItem Open Access Midazolam in combination with glycopyrrolate and xylazine as a preanaesthetic for general anaesthesia in dogs(Department of Veterinery Surgery and Radiology, college of Veterinery and Animal Science, Mannuthy, 2007) Narayanan, M K; KAU; Rajankutty, KThe anaesthetic study was conducted in 24 female dogs of different breeds subjected to elective surgical procedures (oopherectomies). They were randomly divided into four groups viz., I, II, III and IV, each consisting of six animals and were numbered serially from 1 to 6. Animals of all the groups were administered intramuscularly, glycopyrrolate (0.011mg/kg body weight) followed by xylazine (1.0 mg/kg body weight) at 15 minutes interval. In addition, animals of Group III and IV were also administered intravenously midazolam (0.3 mg/kg body weight) 10 minutes after the administration of xylazine. Fifteen minutes after premedication to all animals ketamine hydrochloride (10 mg/kg body weight) was administered intramuscularly to effect anaesthesia and to the animals of Group II and IV, isoflurane was also administered for the maintenance of anaesthesia. The common clinical signs manifested by the dogs after premedication with glycopyrrolate and xylazine were winking of eyes, yawning, inco-ordination of movement and assumption of sternal recumbency with head down posture. All the dogs were in lateral reccumbency following the administration of midazolam. The other symptoms noticed were vomiting, licking, urination and defecation. Salivation was scanty in all the dogs and the induction of anaesthesia was smooth in all the animals. Endotracheal intubation was easy in animals premedicated with midazolam. During recovery vocalization was not observed in those animals premedicated with midazolam. All the animals had an uneventful recovery, though the dogs showed varying degree of dullness, which lasted for two to six hours. All the dogs had normal food intake from the next day onwards. The induction time of anaesthesia in ketamine/ketamine-isoflurane combination was quicker in dogs premedicated with combination of glycopyrrolate-xylazine-midazolam than with glycopyrrolate-xylazine. The duration of anaesthesia was more or less similar, but prolonged with the supplementation of isoflurane. The muscle relaxation time was prolonged with isoflurane maintenance. The degree of muscle relaxation during anaesthesia was good in animals premedicated with midazolam and excellent with isoflurane supplementation. The depth of anaesthesia achieved with a combination of xylazine-ketamine at the dose rate of 1 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg respectively was found not satisfactory for major surgical procedures like laparotomy. But it was satisfactory with midazolam premedication and good with the supplementation of isoflurane. The recovery time was prolonged in dogs in which midazolam was included for premedication. A marginal decrease in rectal temperature, pulse rate and respiration rate was noticed after premedication and during anaesthesia in all the groups. The colour of mucous membrane was pale roseate throughout the observation. In both ketamine and ketamine –isoflurane anaesthesia, oxygen saturation level and blood coagulation time were increased. Significant increase in systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressures was noticed in all the groups. Electrocardiogram revealed mild to moderate tachycardia following the administration of glycopyrrolate and sinoatrial block, sinoatrial arrest, ST segment depression/elevation, ST coving, increased R amplitude, peaked T wave and ventricular tachycardia following the administration of xylazine. All the abnormalities were observed for a short period of ketamine/ketamine-isoflurane anaesthesia and disappeared during recovery. Significant decrease in haemoglobin concentration, volume of packed red cells and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and marginal variations in total leukocytes and differential leukocyte counts were noticed after premedication, during anaesthesia and recovery in all the groups. The variations in total protein, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, aspartate amino transferase, alamine amino transferase, sodium, potassium and chloride parameters were within the normal physiological limits, but the increase in glucose concentration was significant. Arterial blood gas analysis revealed decreased pH with increased partial pressure of oxygen, partial pressure of carbon dioxide and marginal variations in bicarbonate level were observed during anaesthesia. All the dogs had the normal food intake from the next day onwards.ThesisItem Open Access Surgical management of omphalitis in calves(Department of Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2003) Prasanna, D; KAU; Rajankutty, KThe study was carried out in twelve . selected clinical cases of umbilical infections in calves of different breeds of either sex presented to the Veterinary College Hospitals at Mannuthy and Kokkalai. These animals were divided into two groups viz., Group I and Group II, each consisting of six animals. In Group I, the calves with extra-abdominal umbilical infection and in Group II, the calves with combined extra-abdominal and intra abdominal umbilical infections were included. The calves in Group I were within the age group of eight weeks and had the history of swelling at the umbilicus for at least a period of eight days which varied in its type, consistency, and tenderness on palpation. The size of the swelling was maximum of 10.5 cm in diameter with no connection or extension into the abdominal cavity. The swelling was either draining to the exterior through a fistula or closed. The cavity of the swelling was from 3.4 cm to 15 cm in length containing pus which varied in its consistency, color and odour. The physiological parameters were all within normal range. The haemogram was also within physiological range except for an increase in the neutrophil count. Abdominal palpation and retrograde contrast radiography confirmed that the swelling is confined to the exterior of the abdomen. The causative organisms were detected and the calves were successfully treated by routine drainage and dressing. All the calves recovered completely except one, which had recurrence of the infection during the study period. In Group II, the calves were aged between one month to five months and the maximum duration of the illness five months was reported from the oldest calf in that group. They had history of recurrence or persistence of umbilical swelling after the treatment of the swelling. The swelling was either open or closed from which pus was obtained. The swellings were mostly hot and hard. The pus varied in its consistency, colour and odour. The swellings could be felt on abdominal palpation as an extension of the umbilicus towards the liver and bladder. The extent of the cavity was measured by a probe and was able to measure 20 cm long tract. The respiration rate, pulse rate and the rectal temperature were found to be within the normal range. The haemogram showed leucocytosis and an increase in the neutrophil count. The affected structures were identified as umbilical vein that was extending towards the liver and as urachus which was extending towards the bladder by retrograde contrast radiography. The causative organisms were identified and the calves were successfully treated by surgical excision of the affected structures along with the umbilicus.ThesisItem Open Access Xylazine anaesthesia in calves with diazepam premedication(Department of Surgery, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 1993) Regi Varghese George, P; KAU; Rajankutty, KThe study was undertaken to find out the efficacy of xylazine alone and xylazine in combination with diazepam for anaesthesia in calves and to evaluate the haematological and systemic changes consequent on administration of these drugs. The experimental study was conducted on 24 apparantly healthy crossbread calves aged six to twelve months and weighing 47 to 80kg . They were divided into two groups viz.,group I and group II and each group was further divided into two subgroups viz., A and B consisting of six animals each. Xylazine was administered IM at the rate of 0.20mg and 0.30 mg/kg bodyweight in subgroups I A and IB respectively. Diazepam at the rate of 1.0mg/kg bodyweight and 15min. later xylazine at the rate of 0.20mg and 0.30 mg/kg bodyweight were administered IM in subgroups II A and II B respectively. The induction time was 8.50 + 1.47 min and 4.67 + 0.56 min in subgroups I A and I B respectively, whereas it was 8.67 + 1.71 min and 3.33 + 0.77 min in subgroups IIA and II B respectively. The clinical signs of anaesthesia generally observed in these animals were incoordination of movements, assumption of sterna recumbency, salivation, protrusion of tongue, assumption of lateral recumbency, drooping of eyelids, twitching and dropping of ears, bellowing, deviation of eyeball, flaccidity of the tail and relaxation of abdominal muscles. Palpebral reflex was sluggish in all the subgroups except in subgroup II B wherein it was absent. Response to pinprick though sluggish, was noticed in group I whereas insensititivity to pinprick was noticed in group II. Duration of anaesthesia was 107.17 + 5.22 min and 115.67 + 10.03 min in subgroups I A and I B, whereas it was 199.83 + 36.55 min and 390.33 + 61.31 min in subgroups IIA and II B respectively. Increase in the doses of xylazine had prolonged the duration of anesthesia. Premedication with diazepam had still further prolonged the duration of anaesthesia. Sedation was good enough in all the groups for preparing and handling the animals for surgery. During laparotomy, in animals where xylazine alone was administered symptoms of pain were observed, but to a lesser extent with the higher dose. When premedicated with diazepam, incising and suturing of skin did not cause pain, but incising and suturing muscles and peritoneum caused pain. The animals did not exhibit signs of pain or swelling at the site of injection following xylazine injection, but diazepam injection was found painful. All the animals resumed feeding and drinking soon after recovery, but they were dull for varying periods from three to twenty four hours. Decrease in rectal temperature and pulse rate was observed in both the groups, which gradually became normal. Decrease in respiration rate was observed in group I whereas in group II, there was increase in respiration rate. In subgroup II B, the respiration was jerky and abdominal. Electrocardiogram revealed decreased heart rate in both the groups after the administration of xylazine. Decrease in total erythrocyte and leukocyte counts was observed in both the groups, which gradually became normal. A slight neutropenia with lymphocytosis was evident when xylazine alone was administered. When xylazine was combined with diazepam neutrophilia with lymphocytopenia was observed. Marked variation in monocyte, eosinophil and basophil counts were not observed in both the groups. Reduction in packed cell volume, decrease in haemoglobin concentration and slight increase in erythrocyte sedimentation rate were observed in both the groups. Serum sodium and potassium concentration did not show any marked variation, whereas serum chloride concentration recorded an increase in both the groups. The total serum protein content decreased in both the groups and serum glutamic pyruvic transminase value recorded slight increase. There was marked increase in blood glucose value in both the groups. From the study it was found that : (i) administration of xylazine alone did not result in analgesia good enough to perform major surgical operations and (ii) premedication with diazepam was found to deepen the effect of sedation to a considerable extent. It would be desirable to resort to local infiltration or regional block also, for complete analgesia for major surgical operations.