carpal hyperextension post partial carpal arthrodesis

[Guest guest]

I am looking for some information for a 6.5 year old F/S German Shepard. She

fractured her accessory carpal bone running in the yard 5 years ago. The

fracture was missed initially and the vet splinted it for several weeks and when

there was no improvement referred her to an orthopedic surgeon. He spotted the

fractures and also felt there was breakdown of the palmar aspect of the

intercarpal and carpalmetacarpal joints. The accessory bone was fixed with a

screw and there was a doral partial arthrosesis of the intercarpal and

carpalmetacarpal joints.

So now I see her 5 years later for a health certificate and there is significant

hyperextension and of course loss of flexion and the owner reports lameness.

I have discussed progressing to a total arthrodesis with the surgeon who did the

first surgery and maybe that will be the most effective option but in terms of

rehab if the owners don't want to do another surgery, I've read some suggestions

of ligaplex, digging and swimming exercises, and wobble board (while wearing a

brace).

What kind of expectations should I have after so much time has passed? Pretty

low? I have heard some differing opinions about using a carpal brace for this

situation and was looking for more opinions or experiences with them.

Thanks,