Orthopedics

Patella luxation is a common orthopedic condition in dogs. It may cause varying degrees of lameness, pain, and progression of osteoarthritis. It is most commonly diagnosed in small breed dogs, however large breed dogs are also affected.

Cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) rupture is the most common cause of hindlimb lameness in dogs. Treatment of CrCL injury is an integral part of veterinary orthopedic practice, and represents a $1.23 billion/yr industry in the United States.

Total knee replacement is a treatment option for nonseptic advanced osteoarthritis and irreparable traumatic injuries when medical management is no longer adequate, reconstructive surgery does not have a good prognosis and arthrodesis and amputation are the other options.

Retrievers typically have an active lifestyle, and many are engaged in hunting, field competition, or other strenuous activities such as agility or search and rescue work.

During the CVC in San Diego, Nov. 7-9, new and experienced practitioners alike will gain confidence in managing animals with orthopedic problems.

Inflammation of the proximal aspect of the interosseus medius muscle, or suspensory ligament (i.e., proximal suspensory desmitis, PSD) of the hind limb, is a common cause of acute or chronic lameness of horses and is most commonly diagnosed in competition horses 4 to 10 years old.

Idiopathic, non-infectious, non-erosive immune-mediated polyarthritis (IMPA) is the most common immune-mediated arthritic condition in the dog, resulting in effusion, pain, and decreased range of motion in multiple joints.

Animal movement has been a subject of research for a long period of time. Both qualitative and quantitative gait analyses have been used to analyze horse and horse movement.

It is best to have a good basic knowledge of exercise physiology when designing and implementing a rehabilitation and/or conditioning program.

Police dogs or military working dogs can present interesting challenges for the veterinary clinician.

There are many times that a medical problem arises in the field far away from any veterinary services. During these times preparation may be what saves a dog's life.

It is important to understand that canine locomotion occurs as a result of the summation of all of the body segments and joints moving and working together.

In any dog there can be times when an activity stresses the dog's metabolic processes to extremes.

Back problems are a common cause of poor performance in all horses - especially competitive horses, whose jumping ability may be diminished.

Treatment of cranial cruciate ligament deficiency is the most common surgical procedure performed in veterinary orthopedics.

There are some situations in veterinary practice for which no amount of formal education can prepare you.

Columbia, Mo. - Researchers at the University of Missouri School of Veterinary Medicine are growing cartilage in a lab that can be molded into permanent joint replacements for dogs and eventually humans.

Hawkes Bay, New Zealand - If you think your job is a pain in the neck, you're not alone.

Osteoarthritis is a common problem for the athletic horse and has been estimated to cause 60 percent of lameness cases in the athletic horse.

The perception still exists that any veterinarian with some exercise equipment an underwater treadmill can practice rehabilitation.

Athens, Ga. - Osteoarthritis affects millions of dogs each year. Joint injuries can lead to the development of OA later in life.

Metacarpal and metatarsal bone fractures are common injuries seen in the dog, typically resulting from automobile trauma, being stepped upon or having the paw trapped under a rigid object.

My experience with using newspaper to make spica, meta and back splints spans more than 30 years.

In last month's column we discussed the pathophysiology of intervertebral disk disease (IVDD). Once IVDD is diagnosed, the clinician must again use the history (onset and course of clinical signs) and the physical exam (neurological status) to formulate the therapeutic plan.

Louisville, Ky. - Churchill Downs will unveil a bronze Barbaro Memorial Statue today during a dedication ceremony.

Equine orthopedic specialist Dr. Dean W. Richardson kicked off sessions at CVC East in Baltimore by sharing his experience on the national stage when he treated Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro following the colt's tragic breakdown in the Preakness Stakes.

Patella luxation is a common orthopedic condition in dogs. It may cause varying degrees of lameness, pain, and progression of osteoarthritis.

Synovial fluid analysis is an essential test for diagnosing joint disease in dogs and cats.

Cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) rupture is the most common cause of hindlimb lameness in dogs.

Pelvic fractures are common, representing 20-30% of fractures in small animals.