Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Deep digital flexor tenotomy to treat severe laminitis in a cow
By Gayle, J M et al.·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·2001·Department of Clinical Sciences, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Deep digital flexor tenotomy for treatment of severe laminitis in a cow.
- Species:
- cattle
Plain-English summary
A first-calf Guernsey cow was brought in for severe swelling in her udder, along with infections and metabolic issues. Despite intensive treatment, she became unable to stand due to severe pain in her feet caused by laminitis (inflammation of the hoof). After surgery to remove her udder, she still needed help standing, but a special procedure called deep digital flexor tenotomy was performed on her hooves. This surgery quickly relieved her foot pain, allowing her to stand on her own.
People also search for: cow laminitis treatment · udder swelling in cows · deep digital flexor tenotomy for cows
Abstract
A first-calf Guernsey cow was referred for evaluation of severe udder edema, mastitis, metritis, and ketosis. During the course of treatment, the cow became recumbent and was unable to rise. Intensive treatment resulted in the cow being able to stand for short periods with the aid of a sling. However, severe pressure necrosis of the udder and ongoing mastitis made performance of a complete mastectomy necessary. After surgery, the cow's condition improved, although assistance in standing was still required. Radiography of the distal phalanges revealed severe rotation in the right lateral and left medial digits of the hind limbs. The laminitis was nonresponsive to medical management; therefore, a deep digital flexor tenotomy was performed in the affected claws. The procedure provided almost immediate relief of signs of foot pain and resulted in ability to stand without assistance. Deep digital flexor tenotomy should be considered when treating cows with severe laminitis.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11549095/