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New study classifies congenital birth defects in various dog breeds
"We expect the results of this study to change the way radiologists report these birth defects" - RVC

Research marks an important step in the diagnosis and treatment of portosystemic shunts.

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has published a new study into the classification of congenital birth defects that occur in various dog breeds.

Writing in the journal Veterinary Radiology and Ultrasound, researchers provide the exact characterisation of congenital intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (IHPSS) in dogs, which has historically lacked a complete anatomical overview.
  Researchers hoped that the findings will aid in the diagnosis of IHPSS and lead to the development of new treatments.

Dr Randi Drees, associate professor in veterinary diagnostic Imaging at the RVC, said: “The newly introduced classification of the IHPSS based on the individual hepatic venous structure that it inserts through will likely be more reliable than the historical global classification system, as it relies on given anatomical structures that can be investigated with advanced imaging modalities such as angiographic computed tomography, illustrating the deficiencies of the traditional approach.
"

She added: "We expect the results of this study to change the way radiologists report these birth defects, and therefore optimise communication with the surgeons, improving overall patient care."

The research was conducted at the Royal Veterinary College’s (RVC) Queen Mother Hospital for Animals in collaboration with the School of Veterinary Medicine in Davis; the University of Tennessee Small Animal Hospital; and the College of Veterinary Medicine in Georgia.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.