12wk Golden with congnital limb deformity Prosthesis?

[pvsvet]

Hello
I recently saw a 12wk Golden Retriever puppy with congenital limb deformity
I will try to upload a video-I do not have an x-ray
The elbow feels abnormal and thickened but has ROM and and Flexion and Extension as she moves
Carpus feels malformed and I think I can palpate 1 abn metacarpal bone
There is some pad there-Please see video

Question: should I attempt to a use a Prosthesis to support this puppy
I can see obvious compensation and stress in the rear limbs which could impact her more negatively during growth other than wear and tear if she were an adult.
I wondered if she would tolerate a brace-being a puppy. Derrrick at Animal orthocare said that he could adjust it as she grows
I would appreciate some opinions and thought process as to whether a prosthesis would be a benefit or a detriment for her

Thank you
Ann-Margret Morgan DVM CCRT

[lehughes]

Hey Ann-Margret!

Glad to finally be getting to this post. (Sorry I've not had time to answer you before - here or by e-mail.)

Okay, so the simple answer is 'yes', I would go with a prosthesis.
I also think there would be many other issues if the limb doesn't grow... and I would trust Derrick to do a good job of creating something such as this and revising it along the way.

I have custom made some things using thermoplastics...but not at all 'professional'.
But as the dog grows, you may need to alter things every 2-3 weeks! (That's what I found anyways!)
It's reminds me of a couple of past cases... I had to create make-shift leg extensions... and I think your pup will have a short leg as she grows as well.

Let us know how it goes!

Cheers,

Laurie