Four adult (two males and two females) dogs were used to comparatively evaluate the effectiveness of pin-infiberglass cast with Kirschner-Ehmer type I external skeletal fixative in the management of surgically created radius-ulna fractures in dogs. These dogs were assigned to two groups (A and B) with each group made up of two dogs. The radius-ulna fracture was created in all the dogs under general anaesthesia as follows: Group A, pin-in-fiberglass casting; and Group B, Kirschner-Ehmer type I external fixation. Post-operatively, minimal increase in vital parameters were observed, but were not significant (P>0.05) when compared with preoperative values in both groups. The haematological indices were within acceptable normal limits for both group (P>0.05). Dogs in both groups bore weight on the operated limb and could walk within 24 hours postoperative. Radiographic evaluation revealed minimal soft tissue swelling and minimal periosteal tissue reaction in both groups. The Kirschner-Ehmer external fixative group attained the faster fracture healing time (7 weeks) compared to the pin-in-fiberglass group (8 weeks). Functional and cosmetic appearances were graded as excellent for both groups. Complications associated with the two techniques were cast sores in the pin-infiberglass group while pin loosening and serous pin tract drainage were observed in the Kirschner-Ehmer external fixative group. Thus, it was concluded that pin-in-fiberglass cast could be used as a satisfactory substitute to Kirschner-Ehmer type I external fixative in the management of simple radius-ulna fractures in dogs.

Ano-rectal malformations comprise a wide spectrum of diseases, which can affect males and females, and involve the distal anus and rectum as well as the urinary and genital tracts. The incidence, type or variety of malformations varies from one region or geographical location to another. Ano-rectal anomalies tend to be associated with other congenital anomalies. The aim of this study is to determine the incidence, presentation and types of ano-rectal malformations and their treatment outcome. It is a prospective observational study from March 2012 to February 2019. Information obtained from cases of ano-rectal anomalies who presented to our health institution during the study period was entered into a proforma. Relevant clinical information was obtained and documented in a structured proforma. A total of 60 patients were seen during the study period. Males were 35 (58.3%) while females were 25 (41.7%). Age at presentation ranged from 2 hours -15 years. High anomalies were seen in 34 (56.7%), low anomalies 18 (30%) and intermediate 8 (13.3%). Associated congenital anomalies were seen in 12 (20%) patients. 28 patients had the traditional three-stage procedure of initial colostomy, PSARP and colostomy closure while 13 patients had double staged procedure of initial colostomy and definitive surgery with colostomy closure at the same time. Fifteen (15) patients had single staged procedure (PSARP) without an initial colostomy. Three (3) patients are awaiting colostomy closure after definitive surgery. Post-Operative complications were seen in 16 patients. A mortality of 10 (16.7%) was observed.

Ano-rectal malformations comprise a wide spectrum of diseases, which can affect males and females, and involve the distal anus and rectum as well as the urinary and genital tracts. The incidence, type or variety of malformations varies from one region or geographical location to another. Ano-rectal anomalies tend to be associated with other congenital anomalies. The aim of this study is to determine the incidence, presentation and types of ano-rectal malformations and their treatment outcome. It is a prospective observational study from March 2012 to February 2019. Information obtained from cases of ano-rectal anomalies who presented to our health institution during the study period was entered into a proforma. Relevant clinical information was obtained and documented in a structured proforma. A total of 60 patients were seen during the study period. Males were 35 (58.3%) while females were 25 (41.7%). Age at presentation ranged from 2 hours -15 years. High anomalies were seen in 34 (56.7%), low anomalies 18 (30%) and intermediate 8 (13.3%). Associated congenital anomalies were seen in 12 (20%) patients. 28 patients had the traditional three-stage procedure of initial colostomy, PSARP and colostomy closure while 13 patients had double staged procedure of initial colostomy and definitive surgery with colostomy closure at the same time. Fifteen (15) patients had single staged procedure (PSARP) without an initial colostomy. Three (3) patients are awaiting colostomy closure after definitive surgery. Post-Operative complications were seen in 16 patients. A mortality of 10 (16.7%) was observed.