Intraoperative needlescopy aids visualization during otic surgery in dogs and cats.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To describe the utility of needlescopy as an intraoperative tool in traditional open ear surgeries in dogs and cats. ANIMALS: This was a retrospective case series of dogs and cats that underwent traditional ear surgeries followed by needle arthroscopy imaging system evaluation at a single hospital between September 2024 and June 2025. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: 12 client-owned dogs and cats underwent 14 surgical procedures (total ear canal ablation with lateral bulla osteotomy [10 of 14], ventral bulla osteotomy [3 of 14], and traction avulsion via a lateral approach [1 of 14]); ages ranged from 9 months to 17 years old (median, 8 years), weights ranged from 2.19 to 49.5 kg (median, 4.3 kg), and various breeds were included. Physical examination findings included otorrhea, ear scratching, and various respiratory and neurologic signs. RESULTS: Needlescope-assisted ear surgery was feasible and improved the confidence of the surgeon intraoperatively. There were no reported complications associated with needlescope use. Intraoperatively, the system was practical and user-friendly, offering improved visualization of the tympanic bulla and pathological tissue and facilitating complete removal of the epithelial lining and polypoid tissue. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study highlighted the clinical utility of the needlescopy in canine and feline ear surgery. Needlescopy appears well suited for integration into routine clinical practice due to the ease of use and excellent visualization of residual pathology.