Intraoperative needlescopy aids visualization during otic surgery in dogs and cats

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Surgery
• Ophthalmology
• Minimally Invasive Techniques

Background:

• Traditional open ear surgeries in dogs and cats can be challenging.
• Intraoperative visualization is crucial for successful outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of needlescopy as an intraoperative tool in traditional open ear surgeries in dogs and cats.
• To assess the feasibility and impact of needlescopy on surgical procedures.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective case series involving 12 dogs and cats.
• 14 traditional ear surgeries were performed, including total ear canal ablation with lateral bulla osteotomy, ventral bulla osteotomy, and traction avulsion.
• Needle arthroscopy imaging system was used intraoperatively.

Main Results:

• Needlescope-assisted ear surgery was feasible and improved surgeon confidence.
• The system was practical, user-friendly, and offered enhanced visualization of the tympanic bulla and pathological tissue.
• Complete removal of epithelial lining and polypoid tissue was facilitated, with no reported complications.

Conclusions:

• Needlescopy is clinically useful in canine and feline ear surgery.
• The ease of use and excellent visualization of residual pathology make needlescopy suitable for routine clinical practice.