Page 183 - Canine Lameness

12.4 ­FractFres of ctrs Decral Dimb reD os 155 DISTAL LIMB REGION

(A) (B) (E)

(C) (D) (F)
Figure 12.6 Digit luxation and fractures: the dog depicted in images (A–D) presented with acute
lameness due to a luxation of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the fifth digit of the pelvic limb; (A, B)
the luxation was (C, D) reduced and managed conservatively; (E) mid-diaphyseal fracture of the first
phalanx of digit I, and (F) articular fracture of the second phalanx of digit IV illustrate the difficulty of
diagnosing minimally displaced digit fractures in dogs.

12.4.3 Sesamoid Disease

Sesamoid disease refers to a group of diseases which include traumatic fractures, sesamoid
inflammation (sesamoiditis), degeneration, and fragmentation (Read et al. 1992; Cake and Read
1995; Mathews et al. 2001; Daniel et al. 2008). The pathogenesis is unclear, and it is unknown
whether these conditions are manifestations of a single disease or different diseases. The condi-
tion generally affects the thoracic limbs; however, it may occasionally occur in the pelvic limb as
well. Sesamoids II and VII in Greyhounds and Rottweilers are most commonly affected
(Figures 12.3 and 12.7).
Sesamoiditis is reported in Greyhounds as an inflammation of the sesamoid ligaments sec -
ondary to a strain injury (Blythe et al. 2007). Traumatic sesamoid fractures of sesamoids II and
VII have also been described in racing Greyhounds and other large-breed dogs and are believed
to be caused by excessive tension of the digital flexor tendons across the sesamoid bones (Eaton-
Wells 1998).