Simini Surgery Review: Small Animal Edition

Carl Damiani
  • 5.0 (2)
  • EDUCATION

 Welcome to the Simini Surgery Review: Small Animal Edition—your shortcut to staying sharp in small animal surgery. We break down the latest peer-reviewed studies into clear, time-saving episodes you can listen to on your commute, between cases, or while walking the dog. Focused, fast, and clinically relevant—this is how busy surgeons stay current without spending hours digging through journals. Produced by Simini, creators of Simini Protect Lavage—the non-antibiotic lavage designed to target surgical site risks like biofilms and resistant bacteria.

  1. APR 7

    Veterinary Surgery February 2026 – Soft Tissue Part 1: Feline Perfusion & Barbed Gastropexy Speed

    In this Simini Small Animal Surgery Podcast episode, we kick off our soft tissue coverage from the February 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery with two studies that highlight how small technical decisions can have major physiologic consequences. From cutaneous perfusion in feline closures to time-saving strategies in GDV surgery, these papers challenge everyday assumptions and offer practical ways to improve outcomes in both routine and emergency procedures. In this episode: ✅ Bayrakdarian et al. — A controlled, within-animal study evaluating continuous intradermal suture patterns in feline skin using laser Doppler imaging. The traditional horizontal mattress pattern decreased perfusion by 24.1%, while a modified pattern with perpendicular bite orientation increased perfusion by over 115% compared to baseline. The findings suggest that suture orientation—not just tension—plays a critical role in preserving microvascular blood flow in cats.  ✅ Chik et al. — A retrospective study of 121 dogs undergoing GDV surgery, comparing barbed suture gastropexy (BSG) to standard incisional gastropexy (SIG). The barbed technique reduced surgical time by ~10 minutes (53.3 vs. 62.6 minutes) without increasing complications, mortality, or recurrence rates. However, 23% of dogs in both groups experienced chronic postoperative GI signs, highlighting that gastropexy prevents rotation—not underlying gastrointestinal disease.  Together, these studies reinforce a key concept: how we close—and how efficiently we operate—directly impacts both immediate and long-term patient outcomes. 🎓 Journal Articles Discussed Bayrakdarian et al. — Comparison of the effect on blood flow of two intradermal suture patterns in feline skin: A within-animal randomized controlled trialChik et al. — Comparison of short-term outcomes and recurrence rates in dogs undergoing open right-sided barbed suture gastropexy and standard incisional gastropexy for treatment of gastric dilatation-volvulus📚 From the February 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery 🎁 Want to learn more about Simini Protect Lavage or request a sample? Learn More:  www.simini.com Request a Sample: https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit

    12 min

  2. APR 7

    Veterinary Surgery February 2026 – Ortho Part 2: TPLO Stability Markers & Achilles Repair vs Arthrodesis

    In this Simini Small Animal Surgery Podcast episode, we continue our orthopedic coverage from the February 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery with two studies that challenge how we define stability and success in orthopedic surgery. One paper introduces a simple radiographic marker that may outperform traditional measurements after TPLO. The other tackles a high-stakes clinical dilemma: primary tendon repair versus arthrodesis in Achilles mechanism injuries. In this episode: ✅ Picavet et al. — A retrospective study of 163 dogs evaluating cranial tibial subluxation (CTS) and popliteal sesamoid position before and after TPLO. While only 14.4% of dogs showed preoperative sesamoid displacement, every case returned to normal position postoperatively, making it a reliable and immediate indicator of restored mechanical stability. Importantly, osteotomy position (ideal vs. distal up to 5 mm) did not significantly affect postoperative stability, reinforcing that functional neutralization of cranial thrust—not perfect geometry—is the true goal.  ✅ Wylie et al. — A multi-center retrospective study of Achilles mechanism injuries comparing primary tendon repair with immobilization versus pantarsal arthrodesis. While overall complication rates appeared similar, catastrophic complications occurred in 26.1% of tendon repairs and 0% of arthrodesis cases. Failures were driven not by the tendon repair itself, but by immobilization-related complications such as pin tract infections and cast sores, fundamentally shifting how surgeons should approach treatment planning.  Together, these studies highlight a central surgical principle: true success is measured not just by technique, but by how well we manage the forces—and risks—acting on the repair after we leave the OR. 🎓 Journal Articles Discussed Picavet et al. — Radiographic assessment of popliteal sesamoid position and cranial tibial subluxation in canine stifle joints undergoing TPLO: A retrospective study of 163 dogs Wylie et al. — Complications and outcomes following surgical management of common calcaneal tendon pathology in 80 dogs📚 From the February 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery 🎁 Want to learn more about Simini Protect Lavage or request a sample? Learn More:  www.simini.com Request a Sample:  https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit

    14 min

  3. MAR 20

    Veterinary Surgery February 2026 – Ortho Part 1: Limb Sparing Biology & Safe Arthrocentesis Techniques

    In this Simini Small Animal Surgery Podcast episode, we kick off our orthopedic coverage from the February 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery with two studies focused on refining both complex surgical decision-making and everyday orthopedic techniques.  From limb-sparing surgery in osteosarcoma to safe approaches for stifle arthrocentesis, these papers highlight how both high-level strategy and small technical choices can significantly impact patient outcomes.  In this episode:  ✅ Altwal et al. — A comprehensive review of canine limb-sparing techniques for appendicular osteosarcoma, including cortical allografts and 3D-printed prostheses. While these techniques aim to preserve limb function, infection remains the dominant complication, with rates as high as 70% in distal radius cases. Interestingly, dogs that developed infections showed longer median survival (480 days vs. 228 days), likely due to immune activation, though infection remains a major cause of implant failure and secondary amputation.  ✅ McLean et al. — An ex vivo study evaluating four landmark-based techniques for stifle arthrocentesis. While all techniques achieved 100% joint access, safety varied significantly. The commonly used lateral intercondylar notch approach showed 0% cartilage injury, whereas the infrapatellar approach caused iatrogenic cartilage damage in 75% of cases, often affecting weight-bearing surfaces.  Together, these studies reinforce a key principle in orthopedic surgery: success depends on both mastering complex procedures and refining the small technical details we perform every day.   🎓 Journal Articles Discussed  Altwal et al. — Surgical limb-sparing in veterinary medicine: A review of existing techniques in dogsMcLean et al. — Accuracy and safety of stifle arthrocentesis and injection based on two established and two new landmarks: Ex vivo study in dogs📚 From the February 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery 🎁 Want to learn more about Simini Protect Lavage or request a sample? Learn More: www.simini.com Request a Sample: https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit

    12 min

  4. MAR 2

    Veterinary Surgery January 2026 – Soft Tissue Part 4: Tracheal Collapse Surgery & BOAS Palate Techniques

    In this Simini Small Animal Surgery Podcast episode, we continue our soft tissue coverage from the January 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery with two studies examining how surgical technique and airway anatomy influence outcomes in brachycephalic and upper airway disease. From advanced tracheal collapse repair to reassessing common palate surgery assumptions, these papers highlight how surgical decisions can shape long-term respiratory function in dogs. In this episode: ✅ Suematsu et al. — Evaluated long-term outcomes in dogs with severe tracheal collapse treated using continuous extraluminal tracheal prostheses (CETP), including cases with W-shaped tracheal collapse, a less commonly discussed but more severe configuration. Dogs with this morphology were over 12 times more likely to require preoperative oxygen, yet the study reported a 90.9% survival rate at 36 months following surgery, demonstrating that carefully performed extraluminal prosthetic stabilization can provide durable outcomes even in severe cases.  ✅ Timmermans et al. — A prospective study comparing folded flap palatoplasty (FFP) with standard staphylectomy (STS) in brachycephalic dogs using CT measurements three months after surgery. While both techniques improved clinical signs and exercise tolerance, CT analysis revealed that FFP did not consistently reduce soft palate thickness, with some dogs actually showing increased tissue thickness postoperatively. In contrast, traditional staphylectomy resulted in measurable thinning of the soft palate, challenging assumptions about the anatomic advantages of FFP.  Small Animals Vet Surge 2026 Ja… Together, these studies reinforce an important theme: successful airway surgery requires understanding how anatomy, tissue healing, and surgical technique interact over time. 🎓 Journal Articles Discussed Suematsu et al. — Long-term outcomes of dogs with W-shaped or traditional tracheal collapse treated with a continuous extraluminal tracheal prosthesis: A retrospective studyTimmermans et al. — Evaluation of soft palate thickness in brachycephalic dogs 3 months after folded flap palatoplasty versus standard staphylectomy📚 From the January 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery 🎁 Want to learn more about Simini Protect Lavage or request a sample? Learn More:  www.simini.com Request a Sample: https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit

    12 min

  5. FEB 23

    Veterinary Surgery January 2026 – Soft Tissue Part 3: Septic Peritonitis Survival & Retained Sponge Prevention

    In this Simini Small Animal Surgery Podcast episode, we wrap up our soft tissue coverage from the January 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery with two papers that focus on perioperative decision-making and surgical safety. One study reviews modern strategies for managing septic peritonitis, emphasizing stabilization, infection control, and postoperative care that directly influence survival. The other examines the rare but serious complication of retained surgical sponges, highlighting how simple system failures in routine procedures can lead to major postoperative complications. In this episode: ✅ O’Marra et al. — A comprehensive review of septic peritonitis management in small animals, outlining the importance of aggressive stabilization, rapid surgical source control, and intensive postoperative monitoring. The paper highlights key perioperative strategies including balanced crystalloid resuscitation, avoidance of hydroxyethyl starch due to potential renal injury risk, and early enteral nutrition within 24–48 hours to support intestinal barrier function and reduce systemic complications.  ✅ Seger et al. — A multi-institutional retrospective study evaluating 21 cases of gossypiboma (retained surgical sponges) in dogs and cats. Over half of the cases originated from routine ovariohysterectomy procedures, with patients typically presenting about two weeks later with nonspecific signs such as fever, lethargy, and abdominal pain. Despite the severity of the complication, 19 of 21 animals survived to discharge following surgical removal, underscoring both the seriousness and treatability of the condition.  The key takeaway: good outcomes depend on both excellent surgical management and reliable operating room systems that prevent avoidable complications. 🎓 Journal Articles Discussed O’Marra et al. — Perioperative management of septic peritonitis in small animals: A reviewSeger et al. — Presentation, diagnosis, and management of gossypibomas in veterinary specialty hospitals: A multi-institutional study of 21 cases📚 From the January 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery 🎁 Want to learn more about Simini Protect Lavage or request a sample? Learn More:  www.simini.com Request a Sample: https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit

    11 min

  6. FEB 16

    Veterinary Surgery January 2026 – Soft Tissue Part 2: BOAS Surgery Durability & Hepatic Resection Risk

    In this Simini Small Animal Surgery Podcast episode, we continue our soft tissue coverage from the January 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery with two studies focused on improving objective surgical assessment and risk prediction. One paper examines the long-term physiologic outcomes of brachycephalic airway surgery, using objective respiratory testing rather than owner perception. The second analyzes predictors of complications in canine hepatic mass resections, highlighting how preoperative imaging and systemic health influence surgical risk. In this episode: ✅ Johnson et al. — Evaluated long-term outcomes after brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) surgery in 32 dogs using objective respiratory testing, including respiratory functional grading and whole-body plethysmography. The study showed a dramatic drop in the BOAS index from 71.6% pre-surgery to 46.7% post-surgery, with durable improvement maintained at 49.1% after a median follow-up of 4.5 years. More than 80% of dogs maintained improved respiratory function, demonstrating the long-term durability of multi-level airway correction.  ✅ Konno et al. — A retrospective study of 96 dogs undergoing hepatic mass resection, identifying predictors of severe complications within two weeks of surgery. The overall severe complication rate was 17.7% with a mortality rate of 6.3%. Importantly, surgical risk was not associated with the hepatic lobe involved, but rather with the distance between the mass and the caudal vena cava on CT imaging, underlying systemic disease, and intraoperative hypotension.  Together, these studies highlight how objective measurement—whether of airway function or surgical anatomy—can dramatically improve clinical decision-making and surgical planning. 🎓 Journal Articles Discussed Johnson et al. — Comparison of short- and long-term objective respiratory outcomes after surgery for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndromeKonno et al. — Risk factors for complications associated with canine hepatic mass resection: A study of 96 cases📚 From the January 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery 🎁 Want to learn more about Simini Protect Lavage or request a sample? Learn More:  www.simini.com Request a Sample: https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit

    12 min

  7. FEB 9

    Veterinary Surgery January 2026 – Soft Tissue Part 1: Septic Peritonitis Lavage & Hepatic Lobectomy Outcomes

    In this Simini Small Animal Surgery Podcast episode, we begin our soft tissue coverage from the January 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery with two studies that tackle some of the most challenging abdominal conditions surgeons face. From septic peritonitis management to right divisional hepatic lobectomy, these papers highlight the balance between aggressive surgical intervention and careful perioperative management in critically ill patients. In this episode: ✅ Campbell et al. — A comprehensive review of septic peritonitis in small animals, focusing on early recognition, rapid source control, abdominal lavage, drainage strategies, and perioperative care. The review highlights emerging concerns about the biologic effects of large-volume saline lavage, including tissue irritation, altered electrolyte environments, and potential impairment of mesothelial cell function during prolonged exposure.  ✅ Foster et al. — A multi-institutional retrospective study evaluating 70 dogs undergoing right divisional hepatic lobectomy, one of the most technically demanding liver procedures in veterinary surgery. While intraoperative complications occurred in 54.3% of cases, primarily due to hemorrhage, the perioperative mortality rate was only 2.9%, reflecting improved patient selection and perioperative management. The study also found no difference in complication rates between surgical techniques, including staplers, vessel sealing devices, and traditional ligation.  Together, these papers reinforce a central theme in soft tissue surgery: success often depends as much on perioperative strategy and patient selection as it does on surgical technique itself. 🎓 Journal Articles Discussed Campbell et al. — Diagnosis and surgical management of septic peritonitis in small animals: A reviewFoster et al. — Outcomes and prognostic variables associated with right divisional hepatic lobectomies in 70 dogs 📚 From the January 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery🎁 Want to learn more about Simini Protect Lavage or request a sample? Learn More:  www.simini.com Request a Sample: https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit

    12 min

  8. FEB 2

    Veterinary Surgery January 2026 – Ortho Part 2: Guided SI Fixation & The Elbow OA Evidence Gap

    In this Simini Small Animal Surgery Podcast episode, we continue our orthopedic coverage from the January 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery with two studies that approach surgical improvement from very different angles: precision tools and evidence-based treatment decisions. One paper introduces a novel table-mounted reduction and drill guide system designed to improve the accuracy of minimally invasive sacroiliac fixation. The other examines the quality of evidence behind surgical treatments for severe canine elbow osteoarthritis, raising important questions about complication risk and decision-making. In this episode: ✅ Lopez-Barroso et al. — Evaluated a table-bound reduction and drill guide system for minimally invasive sacroiliac stabilization in cats. The reusable 3D-printed guide, stabilized by articulated arms attached to the OR table, produced 100% safe screw placement and 94% average joint reduction, with 82% sacral width purchase, dramatically exceeding typical thresholds for secure fixation. The setup also allows the surgical team to step away from fluoroscopy, reducing radiation exposure.  ✅ Yu et al. — Conducted a systematic review of surgical options for severe canine elbow osteoarthritis, including sliding humeral osteotomy (SHO), proximal abducting ulnar osteotomy (PAUL), and canine unicompartmental elbow replacement (CUE). Despite more than 1,200 initial records, only 15 studies met inclusion criteria, and none provided high-level evidence. The CUE procedure showed reported success rates of 91–98%, but the number needed to harm was just 7.6, meaning roughly 1 in 8 dogs experienced a major complication requiring revision, arthrodesis, amputation, or euthanasia.  Together, these papers highlight two paths toward better orthopedic care: improving surgical precision through technology and strengthening clinical decision-making through better evidence. 🎓 Journal Articles Discussed Lopez-Barroso et al. — Accuracy of a table-bound reduction and drill guide system for minimally invasive sacroiliac screw placement in catsYu et al. — Systematic review of surgical treatment for severe elbow osteoarthritis in dogs 📚 From the January 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery 🎁 Want to learn more about Simini Protect Lavage or request a sample? Learn More:  www.simini.com Request a Sample: https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit

    11 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

 Welcome to the Simini Surgery Review: Small Animal Edition—your shortcut to staying sharp in small animal surgery. We break down the latest peer-reviewed studies into clear, time-saving episodes you can listen to on your commute, between cases, or while walking the dog. Focused, fast, and clinically relevant—this is how busy surgeons stay current without spending hours digging through journals. Produced by Simini, creators of Simini Protect Lavage—the non-antibiotic lavage designed to target surgical site risks like biofilms and resistant bacteria.

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