Evaluating the long-term conformation and hoof growth effects of starting hoof trimming at 5 months of age in New Zealand dairy goats.

Hoof overgrowth is associated with poor conformation, an altered weight-bearing surface, and a reduction in the hoof's anatomic and functional integrity. As a result of housing systems that promote hoof overgrowth, hoof trimming is considered a priority in dairy goats. However, there are few data on the effects of the timing of first trimming on hoof conformation and growth rate. The aims of this study were (1) to evaluate the long-term effects of 2 different hoof trimming start times and (2) to investigate the pattern of hoof growth across the first 2 yr of life. Eighty 5-mo-old female Saanen-cross commercially housed dairy goats were allocated randomly to 1 of 2 treatments: (1) early trimmed (trimming beginning at 5 mo old; hooves were trimmed every 4 mo thereafter) and (2) late trimmed (trimming beginning at 13 mo old; hooves were trimmed every 4 mo thereafter). Using a combination of photographs and radiographs, hoof conformation, joint positions, and hoof wall length were assessed before the 13- and 25-mo trimming events. Hoof growth was assessed every 12 wk using caliper measurements. Overall, starting hoof trimming earlier had minor and inconsistent effects. However, detrimental changes in conformation and joint positions occurred between trimming events, particularly in the hind hooves, regardless of trimming treatment. At both assessments, there was a high percentage of overgrown toes and dipped heels, with the hind hooves being more affected compared with the front (overgrown toes at 13 mo, 97.1 vs. 79.1 ± 5.2%; overgrown toes at 25 mo, 91.7 vs. 56.3 ± 6.7%; dipped heels at 13 mo, 98.5 vs. 19.3 ± 5.0%; dipped heels at 25 mo, 88.3 vs. 4.9 ± 4.8%). In addition, at both assessments, the distal interphalangeal joint angle was greater in the hind hooves compared with the front (13 mo, 79.5 vs. 65.2 ± 1.7°; 25 mo, 79.0 vs. 66.7 ± 0.9°), whereas heel angles were less in the hind hooves compared with the front (13 mo, 41.8 vs. 57.1 ± 1.5°; 25 mo, 44.9 vs. 55.9 ± 1.1°). On average, the front hooves grew 4.39 mm/mo and the hind hooves grew 4.20 mm/mo. Early trimming did not have consistent effects on hoof growth rate. Importantly, our results suggest that trimming every 4 mo is not sufficient to prevent hoof overgrowth, the development of poor conformation, and detrimental changes in joint positions, particularly in the hind hooves. Furthermore, the detrimental changes may have masked any long-term treatment effects. Therefore, trimming frequency and age of first trimming should be considered when devising hoof care protocols for dairy goats housed in environments that do not offer opportunities for natural hoof wear.

Other Clinical Problems of the Equine Foot.

Many disorders affect the equine foot, and many hoof problems have multiple predisposing causes. Surgery may be necessary after conservative management has failed. Diseases of the hoof capsule may seem simple, but their effect on performance can be long-lasting and healing is often prolonged. Diagnosis of problems within the hoof capsule is enhanced with the use of computed tomography and MRI. The prognosis of fractures has improved with strategic placement of lag screws across fracture planes using aiming devices and advanced intraoperative imaging techniques. Collaboration between the clinician and a skilled farrier is important for successful management of hoof disorders.

Short communication: Anesthetic residues in milk after topical application during treatment of hoof lesions in dairy cows.

Hoof lesions in dairy cows are usually treated by trimming the hoof. However, trimming by itself can cause severe pain or exacerbate already existing pain. Hoof trimming is usually not carried out by trained veterinarians, and pain management is not provided. Pain control during trimming is not only an ethical obligation but also allows for better manipulation and more meticulous treatment. Tri-Solfen (Bayer Animal Health, Pymble, Australia) is a spray gel containing lidocaine, bupivacaine, and cetrimide that is easily applied topically and has demonstrated pain-mitigation effects during and after hoof trimming. In the European Union, these local anesthetics are not approved for use in food-producing animals because of a lack of residue data and concerns about genotoxic effects in cattle and humans. The aim of this study was to assess lidocaine, bupivacaine, and 2,6-xylidine residues in milk after Tri-Solfen application in dairy cows. Five dairy cattle in the dry-off period were enrolled in the study based on clinical evidence of lameness (score ≥3 on a 5-point scale). After cleaning and superficial trimming, we applied 3 to 14 mL of Tri-Solfen to the lesions before continuing treatment. Two milk samples were collected per animal in the following 4 milkings and analyzed in a reference laboratory. Residues of lidocaine above the limits of quantification (0.2 µg/L) were found in milk samples in the first milking 6 h after treatment in only 2 cows. This study shows that excretion of local anesthetics and their metabolites in milk after topical application of Tri-Solfen is negligible and even undetectable after the first milking 6 h post-treatment.

Pilot evaluation of a novel unilateral onychectomy model and efficacy of an extended release buprenorphine product.

BACKGROUND: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), transdermal fentanyl patches, and transmucosal buprenorphine are probably the most commonly used options for providing post-operative analgesia in the early at-home period. However, these require daily administration or are associated with abuse concerns. One of the significant unmet needs in veterinary surgery and pain management is for longer acting opioids for cats to effectively bridge the gap between the in-hospital and at-home recovery periods. A proof of concept study of an extended release formulation of buprenorphine HCL (ER-Bup) was conducted using objective kinetic measures and a unilateral onychectomy model. Using a blinded, randomized, two period crossover design, four cats were allocated to control (saline) or ER-Bup (0.6 mg/kg, subcutaneously [SC]) treatment groups. All animals underwent a unilateral forelimb onychectomy per period with a washout/recovery period in between. Observational pain scores and kinetic data (using a pressure sensitive walkway [PSW]) were collected prior to (baseline) and at intervals for 72 h following surgery. Symmetry indices were derived for kinetic variables (peak vertical force [PVF]; vertical impulse [VI]) of each forelimb for landing following a jump and for walking. A rescue analgesic protocol was in place. Effect of surgery and treatment were evaluated using a mixed model statistical approach. RESULTS: No cats required rescue analgesics based on subjective pain score. ER-Bup had a positive influence on subjective pain scores during the 72 h postsurgery (p = 0.0473). PVF and VI of the operated limb were significantly decreased for both landing (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0001) and walking (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0001 respectively) compared to control. ER-Bup resulted in significantly decreased asymmetry in limb use during landing (PVF, p < 0.0001; VI, p < 0.0001) and walking (PVF, p = 0.0002, VI, p < 0.0001). The novel use of data collected following a jump from an elevated platform appeared to provide all desired information and was easier to collect than walking data. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that SC administration of ER-Bup may be an effective analgesic for a 72 h period postoperatively. Furthermore, landing onto a PSW from an elevated perch may be a useful and efficient way to assess analgesics in cats using a unilateral model of limb pain.

Routine Trimming and Therapeutic Farriery in Foals.

Hoof care in the first few months of life is serious business and should never be taken lightly. Farriery plays a vital role in both the development of the hoof and the conformation of the limb. Management of the feet and limbs during this period will often dictate the success of the foal as a sales yearling or mature sound athlete. A sound foot care program is time-consuming, whereas assembly-line trimming is quick and easy, but the former is much more beneficial.

Angular Limb Deformities: Growth Augmentation.

Angular limb deformities are seen in young foals and are defined as lateral or medial deviations of the limb in the frontal plane distal to a particular joint. Several factors can contribute to the development of an angular limb deformity. Early assessment of the level of ossification of the cuboidal bones is critical to avoid complications long term. Although most deviations self-correct with minimal intervention other than modifications in exercise and hoof trimming, some require surgical intervention in the form of growth acceleration or retardation. This article focuses on growth augmentation techniques, such as hemicircumferential transection and elevation.

Effect of Cortical Screw Diameter on Reduction and Stabilization of Type III Distal Phalanx Fractures: An Equine Cadaveric Study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare reduction of type III distal phalangeal fractures using 4.5 and 5.5 mm cortical screws placed in lag fashion and an intact hoof capsule model. STUDY DESIGN: Cadaveric experimental study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Hooves from 12 adult horses (n=24). METHODS: Sagittal fractures were created in pairs of distal phalanges after distal interphalangeal joint disarticulation and were reduced with either 4.5 or 5.5 mm cortical screws placed in lag fashion. Contralateral phalanges served as non-reduced controls. Fracture reduction following screw placement was assessed by comparing pre-reduction and post-reduction fracture gap measurements from radiographs using paired t-tests. Effects of incremental loading (0, 135, 270, 540, 800, 1070, and 1335 kg) on fracture gaps in 6 phalanges reduced with 4.5 mm screws and 5 phalanges reduced with 5.5 mm screws were measured from fluoroscopic images and assessed by 2-way ANOVA. Significance was set at P<.05. RESULTS: Type III distal phalanx fractures were reliably created. Only 5.5 mm cortical screws, not 4.5 mm screws, significantly reduced fracture gaps and constrained fracture gap expansion 3 cm distal to the articular surface. Compressive loading closed the fracture gaps at the articular surface in both non-reduced control groups and those reduced with either 5.5 or 4.5 mm screws. CONCLUSION: The 5.5 mm cortical screws were more effective than 4.5 mm screws in reducing type III distal phalanx fractures and restricting distal fracture gap expansion under load.

Feline onychectomy: Current practices and perceptions of veterinarians in Ontario, Canada.

The objective of the study was to determine the proportion of practitioners from Ontario, Canada who perform onychectomy, identify the techniques utilized, and obtain practitioners views on the procedure. An anonymous survey was distributed to Ontario Veterinary Medical Association members. Mann-Whitney U-tests were used to compare responses of opinion questions related to declawing between respondents who indicated they perform declawing procedures and those who do not. Of 500 respondents, 75.8% reported performing onychectomy, with 60.1% of those reporting performing the procedure less than monthly and 73.3% only performing the procedure after recommending alternatives. Statistically significant differences were found between those who do and those who do not perform onychectomy for perception of procedural pain, concept of mutilation, perception of procedural necessity for behavior modification or prevention of euthanasia, and support of province-wide procedural bans.

Onychectomie féline : pratiques et perceptions actuelles des vétérinaires en Ontario, Canada. L'objectif de l'étude consistait à déterminer la proportion de praticiens en Ontario, au Canada, qui réalisent l'onychectomie, d'identifier les techniques utilisées et d'obtenir le point de vue des praticiens sur l'intervention. Un sondage anonyme a été distribué aux membres de l'Ontario Veterinary Medical Association. Des tests U de Mann-Whitney ont été utilisés pour comparer les réponses aux questions d'opinion portant sur le dégriffage entre les répondants qui avaient indiqué qu'ils réalisaient des interventions de dégriffage et ceux qui n'en effectuaient pas. Parmi les 500 répondants, 75,8 % ont déclaré qu'ils réalisaient l'onychectomie : 60,1 % ont déclaré la réaliser moins d'une fois par mois et 73,3 % ont dit l'effectuer après avoir recommandé des solutions de remplacement. Des différences statistiquement significatives ont été constatées entre ceux qui réalisaient l'onychectomie et ceux qui ne la réalisaient pas, au niveau de la perception de la douleur associée à l'intervention, du concept de mutilation, de la nécessité de l'intervention pour la modification du comportement ou la prévention de l'euthanasie et de l'appui d'une interdiction à l'échelle de province.(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).

Effect of Presurgical Iodine-Based Disinfection on Bacterial Colonization of the Equine Peripodal Region.

OBJECTIVE: To compare bacterial colonization after diluted iodine tincture or povidone iodine solution for presurgical disinfection of the equine peripodal region. STUDY DESIGN: Complete block design. ANIMALS: Five horses. METHODS: Disinfection protocols using iodine tincture or povidone iodine solutions were tested on 5 pairs (n = 10) equine front feet. Iodine tincture was applied to the left feet and povidone iodine to the right feet. Fixed surfaces of the sole, frog, hoof wall, and peripodal skin were swabbed pre-preparation (T0), after a standard pre-disinfection step (T1), after short disinfection with a 4-minute application of 0.5% iodine tincture or povidone iodine (T2), and after long disinfection with 12-hour soaking in 0.25% iodine tincture or povidone iodine (T3). Quantitative bacteriology was performed on each swab. RESULTS: The frog and sole were the most contaminated sites compared to hoof wall and skin at T0. Bacterial counts were significantly decreased at T2 for both solutions. Bacterial counts did not change significantly with iodine tincture at T3 but increased with povidone iodine compared to T2. Skin abrasions were detected on almost all feet but were subjectively more severe on iodine tincture-treated feet. CONCLUSION: Soaking for 12 hours with either iodine tincture or povidone iodine is not recommended as these solutions damaged the skin and bacterial recolonization was noted with povidone iodine. Four-minute disinfection using either iodine tincture or povidone iodine (0.5% available iodine) is appropriate for presurgical preparation of the equine peripodal region.

Clinical use of computed tomography and surface markers to assist internal fixation within the equine hoof.

OBJECTIVE: To describe clinical use of computed tomography (CT) and hoof surface markers to facilitate internal fixation within the confines of the hoof wall. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Horses (n = 16) that had CT-guided internal fixation of the distal phalanx (DP) or distal sesamoid bone (DSB). METHODS: Drill bit entry point and direction were planned from CT image series performed on hooves with grids of barium paste dots at proposed entry and projected exit sites. Post-implantation CT images were obtained to check screw position and length as well as fracture reduction. Imaging, reduction, and surgical and general anesthesia times were evaluated. Outcome was recorded. RESULTS: Screw position and length were considered near optimal in all horses, with no consequential malposition of bits or screws. Fracture reduction was evident in all cases. Preoperative planning times (at least 2 CT image acquisitions and grid creation) ranged from 10 to 20 minutes. Surgery time ranged from 45 to 90 minutes (mean, 61 minutes) and general anesthesia time ranged from 115 to 220 minutes (mean, 171 minutes). CONCLUSIONS: The combination of CT and surface marker grids allowed accurate positioning of screws in clinical DP and DSB fractures. The technique was simple and rapid. An aiming device is useful for the technique.

Prospective Randomized Study of the Effect of Music on the Efficiency of Surgical Closures.

BACKGROUND: Music is commonly played in operating theaters. Some surgeons believe music reduces stress and operative time, while others think music is a distraction and should be avoided. There is limited published evidence evaluating the effects of music on surgical performance. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study is to evaluate the effect of music on simple wound closure. METHODS: Plastic surgery residents were asked to perform layered closures on pigs' feet with and without their preferred music playing. Simple randomization was used to assign residents to the music playing first or music playing second group. The time to complete the repair was measured and repairs were graded by blinded faculty. Results were analyzed to determine significant differences in time to complete the task and quality of repair. Participants were retested in a second session with music played in the opposite order to evaluate consistency. RESULTS: Listening to preferred music decreased repair time by 8% for all plastic surgery residents (p = 0.009). Subgroup analysis demonstrated even more significant improvement in speed for senior residents (PGY 4-6), resulting in a 10% decrease in repair time (p = 0.006). The quality of repair was also better in the music group, at 3.3 versus 3.1 (p = 0.047). Retesting revealed results remained significant whether music was played first or second. CONCLUSIONS: Playing preferred music made plastic surgery residents faster in completing wound closure with a 10% improvement in senior residents. Music also improved quality of repair as judged by blinded faculty. Our study showed that music improves efficiency of wound closure, which may translate to healthcare cost savings.

Short communication: Changes in gait symmetry in healthy and lame dairy cows based on 3-dimensional ground reaction force curves following claw trimming.

Lameness is a frequent health problem in dairy cows. This preliminary study aimed to detect gait differences between healthy and lame walking cows using 3-dimensional force plates. We examined left-right leg symmetry changes of healthy and lame Holstein dairy cows following claw trimming. Gait scoring (GS) was performed on d -5, 0, 1, and 7 relative to claw trimming. Before the experiment, 5 cows walked normally (initial GS=1) and 4 cows limped moderately on a hind leg (initial GS=3). Gait was measured on d -2, -1, 0, 1, and 7 relative to trimming by obtaining ground reaction forces as cows walked repeatedly across 2 parallel 3-dimensional force plates. From the ground reaction forces, stance phase data were derived using computerized procedures. Left-right leg symmetries of entire curves in the 3 force directions were calculated. Effects of lameness and trimming were analyzed in a mixed model, using a low lameness threshold (GS>1). One week after claw trimming, only one cow was mildly lame. In addition, the symmetries of all 3 dimensions were significantly improved shortly after trimming. Importantly, lameness significantly worsened vertical symmetry. Lame cows walked significantly more slowly than healthy cows. In conclusion, all force symmetries seemed capable of detecting gait responses to claw trimming. Although our results are based on a small number of animals, vertical leg symmetry was affected by lameness.

Prevalence of onychectomy in cats presented for veterinary care near Raleigh, NC and educational attitudes toward the procedure.

OBJECTIVE: The current prevalence of onychectomy (declawing) in cats is unknown, and education regarding the procedure appears to vary greatly among veterinary schools. The purpose of this project was to determine the prevalence of onychectomized cats near Raleigh, NC and to document the frequency and style (laboratory or lecture) with which the procedure is taught in USA veterinary schools. ANIMALS: One thousand seven hundred ninety four cats ranging in age from 8 days to 21 years, of which 938 (52.3%) were female and 1719 (95.8%) were sterilized. METHODS: Data were collected over a 10-week period regarding cats seen for appointments in five veterinary facilities (two cat-only, two general, and one tertiary). Data collection included signalment and onychectomy status. During this time, 28 veterinary schools were polled regarding education of veterinary students in onychectomy. RESULTS: Three hundred and seventy four (20.8%) cats had undergone onychectomy. A significantly higher percentage of declawed cats were seen in the general practices compared with the other practice types (p < 0.030). Younger cats had a higher rate of onychectomy (p < 0.001). Twenty-six veterinary schools responded to the survey (93%). Fourteen (54%) of the responding schools did not include in their core curriculum a lecture or surgical laboratory providing instruction in the onychectomy procedure. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Almost 21% of cats seen in veterinary hospitals near Raleigh, NC were declawed. Less than 50% of veterinary schools in the USA include a mandatory lecture or laboratory to teach the procedure. There appears to be a discrepancy between the popularity of the onychectomy procedure and the emphasis placed on relevant instruction in veterinary schools in the USA.

Comparison of 3 methods of onychectomy.

The frequency of claw regrowth, bony remnants, and complications in cats that underwent forelimb onychectomy using laser, scalpel, or guillotine techniques were evaluated. Eighty-seven client-owned cats were recruited from 27 veterinary clinics in the Canadian Atlantic provinces. At least 1 year after onychectomy the cats underwent a physical examination, gait analysis, and radiographic evaluation by 1 of 2 authors. There was no significant difference in the frequency of claw regrowth among the 3 methods (P = 0.283). Significantly more cats had bony remnants following guillotine onychectomy (P < 0.001). Bony remnants were significantly associated with claw regrowth (P = 0.001). Cats that underwent laser onychectomy had significantly less post-operative complications (P = 0.023). The long-term outcome was not significantly different among the 3 methods. We conclude that leaving remnants of the third phalanx in situ is associated with an increased frequency of claw regrowth. Laser onychectomy may be preferred to reduce the risk of post-operative complications, bony remnants, and claw regrowth.

Comparaison de 3 méthodes d'onychectomie. La fréquence de la repousse des griffes, des reliquats osseux et des complications chez les chats qui avaient subi une onychectomie des pattes avant en utilisant le laser, le scalpel, ou les techniques de guillotine a été évaluée. Quatre-vingt-sept chats appartenant à des clients ont été recrutés dans 27 cliniques vétérinaires des provinces de l'Atlantique du Canada. Au moins 1 an après l'onychectomie, les chats ont subi une évaluation physique, une analyse de la démarche et une évaluation radiographique par 1 des 2 auteurs. Il n'y avait pas de différence significative dans la fréquence de la repousse des griffes entre les 3 méthodes (P = 0,283). Un nombre significativement supérieur de chats avaient des reliquats osseux après l'onychectomie à la guillotine (P < 0,001). Les reliquats osseux étaient significativement associés à la repousse de griffes (P = 0,001). Les chats qui ont subi une onychectomie au laser présentaient un nombre significativement inférieur de complications postopératoires (P = 0,023). Les résultats à long terme n'étaient pas significativement différents entre les 3 méthodes. Nous avons conclu que la présence de reliquats in situ dans la troisième phalange est associée à une fréquence accrue de repousse des griffes. L'onychectomie au laser peut être préférable pour réduire le risque de complications postopératoires, des reliquats et de la repousse des griffes.(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).

Evaluating the immediate effects of hoof trimming on dairy goat hoof conformation and joint positions.

Hoof overgrowth in commercial housed dairy goats is a major health and welfare concern; thus, it is important to better understand hoof trimming, a priority practice which addresses hoof growth. We evaluated the immediate effects of trimming on external conformation, internal joint positions, and hoof wall overgrowth of front and hind hooves. Eighty female goats were enrolled. Pre and post hoof trimming data were collected at 13, 17, 21 and 25 months of age. Overall, before trimming, a high percentage of hooves were scored as overgrown (77.8%). Trimming decreased the percentage of overgrown hooves (17.6%: P < 0.001) and other moderate/severe conformational issues: dipped heels (49.3% vs. 26.7; P < 0.001), misshaped claws (37.0% vs. 17.6%; P < 0.001), splayed claws (73.7% vs. 56.7%; P < 0.001). More hind than front hooves had dipped heels pre-trimming and (91.3% vs. 7.3%; P < 0.001) and post-trimming (52.8% vs. 0.6%; P < 0.001); over half of the hind heels were not restored to an upright position. A greater proportion of toe length was removed from the hind hooves compared to the front (0.50 vs. 0.43, P < 0.001), with the greatest proportion of hoof wall overgrowth removed from the hind hoof medial claw at the 13-month assessment (P < 0.001). Following trimming, distal interphalangeal joint angle decreased more in hind compared to front hooves (11.0° vs. 6.9°; P < 0.001); distal interphalangeal joint height decreased (0.21 cm, P < 0.001), and proximal interphalangeal joint, and heel, angles increased (7.76° and 8.93°, respectively; P < 0.001). Trimming did not restore conformation of all hooves when trimmed every 4 months, suggesting a need to investigate reasons for underlying poor conformation, including trimming frequency.

Surgical excision of P3 fragments in 86 declawed cats: case series (2013-2023).

CASE SERIES SUMMARY: This case series describes the clinical findings and surgical intervention of 86 declawed cats; 52 from a shelter or rescue and 34 owned cats. Historical reports from owners and shelter staff included house-soiling, biting behavior, repelling behavior, barbering, lameness, chronic digit infection and nail regrowth. All the cats had fragments of the third phalanx (P3) of varying sizes diagnosed on radiographs. Pathology visible on examination included digital subcutaneous swelling, ecchymosis, malaligned digital pads, ulcerations, exudate, tendon contracture, nail regrowth and callusing. Surgery was pursued in these cases to remove the P3 fragments, relieve tendon contracture and reposition the digital pads with an anchoring suture. Gross findings intraoperatively included fragmented growth of cornified and non-cornified nail tissue, osteophytes on the surface of the second phalanx, deep digital flexor tendon calcification, and both bacterial and sterile exudate. The most common complication 14 days postoperatively was mild (14%) to moderate (1%) lameness. All historical parameters recorded improved in both populations of cats (house-soiling, biting behavior, repelling behavior, barbering, lameness, tendon contracture and chronic digit infection). Postoperatively, 1/47 cats exhibited continued malalignment of two digital pads and there were no reports of long-term postoperative lameness. RELEVANCE AND NOVEL INFORMATION: Two methods of declawing cats are detailed in the veterinary literature, including partial amputation of P3 and disarticulation of the entire P3 bone. The novel information in this report includes historical and clinical signs of declawed cats with P3 fragments, intraoperative gross pathology, surgical intervention and the postoperative follow-up results.

Partial herd hoof trimming results in a higher economic net benefit than whole herd hoof trimming in dairy herds.

Sole ulcers, a common cause of lameness is the costliest non-infectious foot lesion in dairy cows and one of the most prevalent non-infectious foot lesions in freestall housing systems. Costs associated with sole ulcers are treatment costs, plus increased labor and decreased productivity and fertility. Routine hoof trimming is part of a strategy to manage sole ulcers. However, hoof trimming strategies differ among farms. The two most frequently applied strategies are: 1) partial herd hoof trimming with a 2-month interval between trims; and 2) whole herd hoof trimming at 6-month intervals. A Markov model was developed to investigate whether every 2 months partial herd hoof trimming or whole herd hoof trimming every 6 months was the most cost-effective strategy to avoid costs associated with sole ulcers. In this model, the net benefits for a 100-cow herd and the average productive life span of a dairy cow in intensive dairy systems of 3 years were evaluated. Partial herd hoof trimming was the most cost-effective strategy 100% of the time compared to whole herd hoof trimming, with a difference in 3-year net benefits of US$4,337 (95% CI: US$2,713-US$5,830). Based on sensitivity analyses, variables that were the sources of the biggest uncertainty in the model were herd size, the probability of being trimmed in a partial herd trim, and the prevalence of sole ulcers. To further investigate the impacts of herd size and of probability of being trimmed, various scenario analyses were conducted. With increasing herd size, the difference in net benefits in favor of partial herd hoof trimming increased even more. Scenario analyses about the probability of getting trimmed all indicated that targeted intervention increased the difference in net benefits in favor of partial herd hoof trimming. However, if the selection of cows to be trimmed in a partial herd trim was random, the whole herd hoof trimming strategy became cost-effective. Therefore, targeted selection and early intervention are necessary to decrease costs associated with sole ulcers.

Stryphnodendron adstringens extract associated with the hooves trimming surgical procedure for the treatment of bovine digital dermatitis.

Hoof care, lesion curettage, and application of 5 % Stryphnodendron adstringens bark extract (S. adstringens (Mart.) Coville) or 3 % copper sulfate on surgical wounds of cattle were carried out in this research. A total of 180 cattle with digital dermatitis were used. They were distributed into six groups of 30 animals each (GI, GII, GIII, GIV, GV, and GVI). In GI and GII, only the sick digit was trimmed; in GIII and GIV, both sick and healthy digits of the lesioned limb were trimmed; and in GV and GVI, all digits were trimmed. During the postoperative period, 5 % S. adstringens extract was applied in GI, GIII, and GV, and 3 % copper sulfate solution was applied in GII, GIV, and GVI. After 60 days of evaluation, the data were analyzed using the Chi-squared test (p ≤ 0.05). Both therapeutic protocols utilizing surgical curettage of the lesions were efficient for treating digital dermatitis. However, when the procedure is followed by the trimming of sick and healthy digits, the healing is optimized and a greater number of animals are rehabilitated.

Evaluation of locking compression plate fixation of the distal phalanx to the hoof wall as a potential therapy for laminitis.

BACKGROUND: Surgical stabilisation of the distal phalanx (DP) is a potential therapeutic strategy for severe acute laminitis. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of locking compression plate (LCP) fixation of the DP to the dorsal hoof wall. STUDY DESIGN: Ex vivo and in vivo experiments. METHODS: A T-shaped LCP was applied to one limb per pair in six pairs of cadaver forelimbs subjected to a combination of thermally induced lamellar failure and vertical load to simulate severe acute laminitis. Standard radiographic measurements were used to compare DP displacement. The LCP was then applied to one forefoot in 12 healthy Standardbred horses either standing (n = 6) or under general anaesthesia (n = 6). Lameness was evaluated daily, then horses were euthanised (day 8) and lamellar tissue analysed using light microscopy, histomorphometery and molecular markers of apoptosis. RESULTS: In the cadaver limb model, LCP fixation prevented the significant changes in hoof-distal phalanx distance, coronary extensor process distance and sole depth that characterised DP displacement in untreated limbs (p < 0.05). Application of the construct in vivo was well tolerated with minimal lameness (10/12 horses were sound at the trot on day 8); however, histology revealed dorsal lamellar pathology consistent with laminitis, but with extensive keratinocyte apoptosis. Adjacent to the LCP, caspase-3 positive cell counts were approximately 20-fold higher than control (p < 0.001). MAIN LIMITATIONS: Pathology was evaluated at a single time point. Microvascular perfusion was not evaluated. CONCLUSIONS: Rigid fixation of the DP to the hoof capsule was achieved with the LCP construct in a cadaver limb laminitis model. In live horses, LCP fixation caused regional lamellar pathology with extensive apoptosis, likely due to disturbed lamellar microvascular perfusion and/or mechanostasis. Understanding these mechanisms is critical for refinement of the technique in order to avoid iatrogenic lamellar damage.

Nonseptic diseases associated with the hoof complex: keratoma, white line disease, canker, and neoplasia.

This article addresses nonseptic diseases associated with the hoof complex, namely keratoma, white line disease, canker, and neoplasia. Keratoma is an uncommon cause of lameness, which may be surgically removed. White line disease, a keratolytic process on the solar surface of the hoof, is treated with therapeutic farriery and resection of the hoof wall when appropriate. Equine canker is an infectious process that results in development of a chronic hypertrophy of the horn-producing tissues. Neoplasia involving the equine foot is rare, and melanoma is the most common type of neoplasm reported.