Non-Weight Bearing Lameness John W. Gray, DVM UTCVM Large Animal Intern
History Basic information Specific information Signalment Current lameness Past lameness Specific information Type of activity Other info
Causes Subsolar abscess Fracture Septic joint, tendon sheath Penetrating injury Joint dislocation Cellulitits Quittor
Lateral Cartilages
Subsolar Absess
Non Weight Bearing Lameness Usually involves one foot/ leg Most likely cause is subsolar abscess Don’t transport until assessed by your vet
Subsolar Abscess Clinical Signs Increased digital pulse Area of sensitivity in sole Check coronary band for lesion (“Gravel”)
Subsolar Abscess Clinical Signs Swelling Sudden, severe lameness (Grade 3-4 of 5) Affected foot is warmer
Subsolar Abscess Causes Penetrating wound in white line, nail hole, or deep sub-solar bruise Cause is often not identified
Diagnosis History Clinical signs Careful paring Gray/black malodorous liquid Radiographs Poultice foot Warm foot baths
Treatment Establish drainage Soak in Epsom salt water Drawing agents Magnapaste Ichthammol Animalintex Keep Clean Bandage until defect closed NSAIDs
Subsolar Abscess Drawing agents Soaking in Epsom Salts
Subsolar Abscess Drawing agents Soaking in Epsom Salts
Subsolar Abscess Drawing agents Soaking in Epsom Salts
Subsolar Abscess Bandage with drawing agents Magna paste Icthamol
Subsolar Abscess Bandage with drawing agents Magna paste Icthamol
Subsolar Abscess Bandage with drawing agents Magna paste Icthamol
Subsolar Abscess Bandage with drawing agents Magna paste Icthamol
Subsolar Abscess Bandage with drawing agents Magna paste Icthamol
Complicated Absess
Complicated Absess
Complicated Absess
Subsolar Abscess Treatment If the coffin bone is involved… Regional anesthesia/ antibiotics Tetanus prophylaxis Soak foot in warm Epsom salt solution Aftercare depends on extent of infection & environment
Subsolar Abscess Aftercare Shoe w/ removable hospital (boiler or medicine) plate Antibiotic & analgesic therapy is seldom required
Subsolar Abscess Prognosis Usually excellent w/ uncomplicated subsolar abscess
Questions??