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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Dog with toe fractures and joint dislocation after paw infection

By Langley-Hobbs, S J & Lascelles, B D X·Published in The Journal of small animal practice·2004·The Queen's Veterinary School Hospital, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed

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Original publication title: Phalangeal fractures and metacarpophalangeal luxations subsequent to post-traumatic osteomyelitis and cellulitis in a dog.

Species:
dog

Plain-English summary

A working Border Collie developed a serious infection after suffering a puncture wound on its paw. Initially, the vet didn't find any fractures or dislocations, but over time, the dog developed joint luxation and fractures due to a chronic infection. After several months of treatment with antibiotics, the situation worsened, and the only solution was to amputate the affected toe, which ultimately resolved the dog's issues. This case highlights the importance of prompt treatment for wounds to prevent severe complications.

People also search for: dog paw injury infection · Border Collie toe amputation · dog cellulitis treatment · dog joint luxation after injury · dog puncture wound care

Abstract

A working Border collie suffered a puncture wound to the metacarpal pad. No fractures or luxations were identified at initial presentation. Treatment was instigated with various antibacterials for a period of months. At subsequent visits, the dog's condition progressed with development of metacarpophalangeal joint luxation and phalangeal fractures secondary to cellulitis and chronic osteomyelitis. Amputation was curative. Prompt treatment of the acute condition with debridement and drainage may have prevented osteomyelitis becoming established in the first instance.

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Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15266860/