Fascial plane mapping for superficial tumor resection in dogs. Part I: Neck and trunk

To provide qualitative fascial categories and classify the intersections of various fascial planes of the trunk of the dog to facilitate preoperative planning for superficial cancers.

Qualitative anatomical study.

Two male and three female mixed breed canine cadavers weighing approximately 15 to 35 kg.

The skin and subcutaneous fat were excised. Fascial planes were incised and elevated to allow exploration of their quality and borders. Fascia was categorized as type I (discrete sheets), type II (tightly adhered to thin muscles), type III (tightly adhered to thick muscles), or type IV (associated with periosteum). Photographs of specimens were digitally modified with overlays to map tissue types.

Differences between cadavers were largely associated with muscle mass or sex, with only minor anatomical differences and enough subjective similarity among specimens to allow mapping. The fasciae of the neck and trunk were predominantly type I or type II, with type III fascia at the shoulder and type IV fascia at the scapular spine, 13th rib, dorsal spinous processes, and the wing of the ilium.

The superficial fasciae of the canine trunk were consistent among the dogs evaluated and can be classified as four broad fascial types. The population used was small, and individual variation should be considered when using these images in a clinical setting.

The images and categorization of fascia and transitions between fascial layers detailed here provide a visual and written reference for surgeons to facilitate preoperative planning and excision of superficial cancers.