Surgical stabilization of shoulder luxation in a pot-bellied pig

Luis M. Rubio-Martínez Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, 0110 Onderstepoort, South Africa.

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 DVM, DVSc, PhD, DACVS
,
Eva Rioja Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, 0110 Onderstepoort, South Africa.

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 DVM, DVSc, PhD, DACVA
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A. S. Shakespeare Department of Production Animals Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, 0110 Onderstepoort, South Africa.

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 BSc, BVSc, MMedVet
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.242.6.807
Volume/Issue:
Volume 242: Issue 6
Online Publication Date:
15 Mar 2013
Restricted access
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Abstract

Case Description—A 4.6-month-old pot-bellied pig was evaluated because of non–weight-bearing lameness (grade 5/5) in the right forelimb of 4 days' duration.

Clinical Findings—Clinical and radiographic examination revealed a closed, lateral luxation of the right shoulder joint.

Treatment and Outcome—Initial attempts at closed reduction failed to provide adequate stability of the shoulder joint. Open reduction and internal fixation by placement of 2 lateral tension sutures with a system designed for canine cranial cruciate ligament repair provided adequate joint stability and a successful outcome.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Stabilization of the shoulder joint with lateral tension sutures after open reduction should be considered for management of lateral shoulder luxation in pot-bellied pigs.

Abstract

Case Description—A 4.6-month-old pot-bellied pig was evaluated because of non–weight-bearing lameness (grade 5/5) in the right forelimb of 4 days' duration.

Clinical Findings—Clinical and radiographic examination revealed a closed, lateral luxation of the right shoulder joint.

Treatment and Outcome—Initial attempts at closed reduction failed to provide adequate stability of the shoulder joint. Open reduction and internal fixation by placement of 2 lateral tension sutures with a system designed for canine cranial cruciate ligament repair provided adequate joint stability and a successful outcome.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Stabilization of the shoulder joint with lateral tension sutures after open reduction should be considered for management of lateral shoulder luxation in pot-bellied pigs.

Contributor Notes

Drs. Rubio-Martínez and Rioja's present address is Equine Division, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston CH64 7TE, England.

The authors thank Estelle Mayhew for preparing the illustration of the surgical procedure.

Address correspondence to Dr. Rubio-Martínez (luis.rubiomartinez@hotmail.com).
Cover Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
Publication Date:
15 Mar 2013

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