Simini Surgery Review: Small Animal Edition

Veterinary Surgery February 2026 – Soft Tissue Part 4: Foreign Body Decision-Making & EndoGIA Lobectomy

In this Simini Small Animal Surgery Podcast episode, we wrap up our soft tissue coverage from the February 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery with two studies that refine decision-making at the intersection of diagnostics and technique. From predicting laparoscopic success in GI foreign bodies to rethinking stapling technology in open thoracic surgery, these papers emphasize how better planning—and better tools—can improve outcomes in high-stakes procedures. In this episode: ✅ Toth et al. — A prospective study evaluating abdominal ultrasound for surgical planning in canine GI foreign bodies. Ultrasound correctly identified foreign body type and morphology in 96.8% of cases, but consistently underestimated size. Importantly, location—not size—determined surgical success, with a 0% success rate for laparoscopic-assisted removal when objects were lodged at the caudal duodenal flexure. Linear foreign bodies were safely managed laparoscopically only if they did not extend past this anatomic bottleneck.  ✅ Weaver et al. — A retrospective study of 46 open lung lobectomies using the EndoGIA stapler, traditionally reserved for minimally invasive procedures. The device achieved zero major intraoperative complications, with over 82% of cases complication-free intraoperatively. While postoperative complications occurred (~10.8%), these were linked to underlying disease severity, not device failure. The EndoGIA’s articulating design and triple-staple row deployment improved maneuverability, hemostasis, and air leak prevention in confined thoracic spaces.  Together, these studies highlight a key surgical principle: the best outcomes come from matching the right approach—and the right tools—to the underlying anatomy and pathology. 🎓 Journal Articles Discussed * Toth et al. — Diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonographic evaluation prior to laparoscopic-assisted gastrointestinal foreign body removal in 30 dogs * Weaver et al. — Use of the Endo GIA™ stapler for lung lobectomy in dogs and cats undergoing open thoracic procedures (intercostal, transdiaphragmatic thoracotomy or median sternotomy): A retrospective study of 46 lung lobectomies 📚 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 [http://www.simini.com] Request a Sample: https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit [https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit]

Veterinary Surgery February 2026 – Soft Tissue Part 3: Lung Lobectomy Ligatures & Omental Graft Reconstruction

In this Simini Small Animal Surgery Podcast episode, we wrap up our soft tissue coverage from the February 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery with two studies that expand your surgical toolbox using practical, adaptable techniques. From cost-effective lung lobectomy closure methods to biologically driven wound reconstruction, these papers challenge reliance on expensive tools and highlight the power of mechanics and tissue biology working together. In this episode, we talk about: ✅ Cronin et al. — A large clinical series evaluating hilar circumferential ligature techniques for lung lobectomy in dogs and cats. The study reported a low intraoperative hemorrhage rate of 4.3%, with no difference between pre-tied loops and hand-tied knots. However, sliding knots showed a dramatically higher hemorrhage rate (28.6%), reinforcing that knot selection—not just technique—directly impacts safety in thoracic surgery.  ✅ Makar et al. — A retrospective case series describing free autologous omental grafts for large distal limb wounds in dogs. Despite initial graft discoloration and heavy discharge, all wounds healed successfully, shrinking to ~19% of original size by 30 days and achieving full epithelialization in an average of 59 days, with no major complications or long-term lameness. The omentum’s angiogenic and immunologic properties allowed it to revascularize and control infection even in contaminated wounds.  Together, these studies reinforce a key principle: effective surgery doesn’t always require more technology; sometimes, it requires a better understanding of mechanics and biology. 🎓 Journal Articles Discussed * Cronin et al. — Perioperative outcomes of 65 dogs and 15 cats undergoing lung lobectomies with a hilar circumferential ligature. * Makar et al. — Autologous, free omentum grafts for large, open, distal limb wounds in dogs: Technique and outcome in 10 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 [http://www.simini.com] Request a Sample: https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit [https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit]

Veterinary Surgery February 2026 – Soft Tissue Part 2: Axial Flaps & Laparoscopic Ergonomics

In this Simini Small Animal Surgery Podcast episode, we continue our soft tissue coverage from the February 2026 issue of Veterinary Surgery with two studies that highlight how outcomes depend not just on technique, but on tissue biology and surgeon-tool interaction. From large-scale reconstructive flap surgery in cats to laparoscopic instrument design, these papers reveal how both biology and ergonomics can shape surgical success. In this episode, we talk about: ✅ Cinti et al. — A retrospective study evaluating the lateral caudal axial pattern flap for reconstruction of large caudodorsal defects in cats. Despite a 50% complication rate, all complications were minor (seroma, edema, partial dehiscence), and 0% required revision surgery. Surgeons were able to safely use flaps averaging 61.3% of tail length, demonstrating that feline tail vasculature provides robust and reliable perfusion even under high tension, making this a viable option for massive defects.  ✅ Cormillot et al. — A prospective, randomized crossover study of 120 surgeons evaluating laparoscopic instrument handle size. The study found that hand size strongly predicts optimal handle preference, with surgeons wearing glove sizes ≤6.5 significantly preferring smaller handles, while larger-handed surgeons preferred standard sizes. Poor ergonomic fit led to two-handed instrument use, increased wrist strain, and reduced efficiency, highlighting a major but often overlooked contributor to surgeon fatigue and long-term injury risk.  Together, these studies emphasize a critical concept: successful surgery depends on both the biology of the patient and the biomechanics of the surgeon. 🎓 Journal Articles Discussed * Cinti et al. — Outcome and complications of lateral caudal axial pattern flap in 14 cats. * Cormillot et al. — Surgeon hand size influences laparoscopic finger loop handle preference. 📚 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 [http://www.simini.com] Request a Sample: https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit [https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit]

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 trial * Chik 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 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/toc/1532950x/current] 🎁 Want to learn more about Simini Protect Lavage or request a sample? Learn More:  www.simini.com [http://www.simini.com] Request a Sample: https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit [https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit]

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 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/toc/1532950x/current] 🎁 Want to learn more about Simini Protect Lavage or request a sample? Learn More:  www.simini.com [http://www.simini.com] Request a Sample:  https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit [https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit]