Carpal Varus

[Guest guest]

I have a difficult case that I

would love to get a few opinions on. Leo is an approximately 6 year old

American Bull Dog Mix, 78.80 lbs, that the presented to me for rehab. Leo

was surrendered to a rescue about 6 months ago and is in his second foster home.

Leo had been diagnosed with an angular limb deformity and was put on pain

meds. No medical history is available. The foster was hoping

that Leo could be helped with a brace or front wheelchair.

Leo has significant varus at both

carpal joints with the left side at a worse angle than the right. The

right carpal varus is less severe and Leo tends to lean forward on the right

front so that the carpal joint is not fully extended while weight bearing.

Both elbows extend laterally. His carpal flexion is severely decreased

bilaterally but his left flexion is significantly worse. He has increased

carpal extension bilaterally. Both carpal joints have excessive medial

flexion. His left carpal joint is sensitive with manipulation but appears

to have medial and lateral laxity. Both carpal joints are swollen and

mild to moderately painful with manipulation. A firm, bony protuberance

is present along the lateral aspect of his left radius. Leo has decreased

right elbow extension.

I’ve tried to attach radiographs. The foster was

not aware that Leo had a previous surgery. I feel like carpal arthrodesis

would be the best approach but I’m worried about the existing

implant. They just want the dog to be comfortable but even with better

pain control, I can’t see continuing to walk around like this. Any

thoughts and/or suggestions are appreciated.

ne

Brode, DVM, CCRP

Associate

Medical Director

Canine

Health Institute

3800

Southwest Freeway, Suite 136

Houston,

TX 77027

www.caninehealthinstitute.com