July 25, 2025
IVC Evidensia Research funding has been granted to five innovative research projects led by UK colleagues.
The IVC Evidensia Research Fund supports colleagues with their independent research initiatives, publications, and presentations at both national and international conferences. The most recent round of approved projects included 15 successful fund applications from across the Group, including five projects happening in the UK led by first opinion, referral and equine colleagues. These are:
Evaluation of Intranasal Xylometazoline vs Adrenaline for Reducing Intraoperative Nasal Bleeding in Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) Dogs: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) causes breathing difficulties in flat-faced breeds like French Bulldogs and Pugs. This study will use a randomised, blinded trial to compare nasal sprays containing xylometazoline, adrenaline, or no treatment before BOAS surgery.
Using a randomised, blinded trial, the goal is to determine if these medications can safely minimise bleeding and improve surgical outcomes, ultimately enhancing care for dogs and reducing stress for veterinary teams.
The risk of tympanic membrane rupture is greater with rod infections when compared to cocci and fungal infections
This project will explore how different bacterial and fungal morphologies, such as rods, cocci, and yeast, affect the ear drum and the body’s immune response. Using microscopy and inflammatory markers (CRP, CBC), the relationship between microbial presence and ear health will be examined. Where possible, ear exams will be conducted on conscious patients, with some possibly requiring sedation.
‘Ultrasonographical, histological and gross features of torn manica flexoria’
Manica flexoria (MF) is a soft tissue band in the horse’s distal limb that stabilises tendons and causes lameness when injured. This research will explore whether tissue degeneration or biomechanical forces are responsible for these MF tears.
For this project, all the surgically removed MF at Pool House Equine Hospital between June 2025 and June 2027 will be collected, and all the samples will be analysed under a microscope, compared to healthy MF from cadaver limbs. The project will also evaluate the accuracy of ultrasound measurements compared to direct surgical measurements, aiming to enhance understanding of MF pathology and improve diagnosis and treatment.
Comparison of Nasal Airflow Resistance in Brachycephalic and Normocephalic Cats Using Computational Fluid Dynamics
This project aims to compare the anatomical structure of the airway in normocephalic and brachycephalic cats, focusing on the impact of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) on respiratory function. Furthermore, it aims to use computational fluid dynamics to analyse airflow resistance and its relationship with BOAS severity across different anatomical morphologies.
Comparison of ultrasound guided versus ‘blind’ median and ulnar perineural analgesia in lameness investigation of the horse
This study will investigate the use of ultrasound-guided perineural injections (nerve blocks) to accurately locate nerves in the upper limbs of horses, where nerve positioning is challenging. By precisely targeting the nerve bundles with local anaesthetic, the research aims to improve the identification of lameness sources.
The success of the nerve blocks will be assessed by measuring changes in skin sensation using an algometer and by analysing gait with objective tools to evaluate improvements in limb function.
Commenting on the recent funding approvals Group Head of Clinical Research, David Singleton, added: "Investing in research projects across the group and backing our colleagues to publish and present their findings is an important part of our aim to further break the boundaries of veterinary science.
We are particularly excited to see Sinead, a laboratory technician, being awarded funding during this round. This is the first time a laboratory technician has been awarded an IVC Evidensia Research Fund grant and underlines the fact that this fund is available to everyone - if you have an idea please come forward."
The IVC Evidensia Research Fund goes beyond financial support and offers academic guidance, mentorship, as well as encouraging collaboration across different veterinary disciplines.
Clinical colleagues from all experience levels are encouraged to apply for funding and help support research within the group.
Read more about advancements in IVC Evidensia Research:
IVC Evidensia doubles research grants
IVC Evidensia launches raft of new research support after milestone hit