Limb amputation has good owner satisfaction and outcomes in 22 livestock cases (2013-2023).

Abstract

Objective: To assess the outcomes of and characterize the complications associated with limb amputations in ruminants and camelids.

Methods: Medical records at the Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital were electronically searched to identify any ruminants or camelids that had undergone a partial or complete limb amputation from 2013 through 2023. Information obtained included signalment, surgery information, duration of hospitalization, and complications. Long-term follow-up data were collected via an owner telephone questionnaire.

Results: The study included 22 animals: 6 camelids, 11 caprines, 3 ovines, and 2 bovines. All animals that underwent amputation survived to discharge, with 3 cases (14%) developing transient short-term complications, including seroma or incisional infection. The mean duration of hospitalization was 3.5 days and 7.6 days for animals without and with short-term complications, respectively. Of the 18 cases that long-term follow-up was available for, 16 (89%) were alive with a good quality of life, and 2 reported minor difficulties in standing up following recumbency. Prostheses were fitted for 3 cases; however, in 2 cases owners reported that animals resented its use and were more comfortable without it. In the third case, severe sores developed; however, bilateral hindlimb amputations precluded discontinuing use.

Conclusions: Limb amputation is a viable option for ruminants and camelids, with good short-term and long-term outcomes in this study. Animals developing short-term complications had a longer hospitalization time. Prosthetic limbs were generally not well tolerated.

Clinical relevance: Ruminants and camelids undergoing limb amputation have a good prognosis, and this procedure should be considered as an option for cases where salvage of the limb is not possible.