Front Matter

Chapter 12 Disorders of the Canine Thoracic Limb: Diagnosis and Treatment 321

is often excised (Kapatkin et al., 2012). Following
fracture of a carpal bone, osteoarthritis is
expected even after anatomic repair (Forward

et al., 2008). Many of the repair methods for car­

pal bone fractures are not rigid enough for full

weight bearing immediately postoperatively.

For this reason, a bivalve cast or palmar splint

is typically recommended for 6–8 weeks.

For ligamentous injuries (FCU, medial, lat­

eral, dorsal, or palmar injuries) the treatment

will vary based on the degree of damage; how­

ever, for treatment to be successful, a definitive

diagnosis is essential. Mild to moderate liga­

ment sprains (grade 1 and 2) are amenable to

external support from coaptation with palmar

splints, specialized support wraps (Figure

12.29) or orthoses (Figure 12.30) for 6–8 weeks

along with formal rehabilitation therapy.

Exercise restriction as well as medical manage­

ment consisting of NSAIDs and analgesics is

also recommended. External support allows for

immobilization of the joint, preventing further

injury to the affected ligament and facilitating

healing. Specialized support wraps and custom

orthotics are designed and manufactured for

the patient to ensure accurate and comfortable

fit. For more severe cases, a functional hinged

orthosis may be used, allowing for controlled

range of motion (Figure 12.30). In cases of

grade 2+ injuries where there is partial fiber

Figure 12.27 Ultrasound images of a normal and grade 2 flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU) strain. The image on the left is the
normal FCU while the image on the right reveals damage to both the humeral and ulnar components of the FCU where
it attaches to the accessory carpal bone. One asterisk reveals thickening of the humeral component of the FCU where it
attaches to the accessory carpal bone, and two asterisks reveal thickening of the ulnar component with fiber disruption
of the ulnar component of the FCU. Source: Image courtesy of Dr. Deb Canapp.

Figure 12.28 MRI of a flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU)
tendinopathy. The arrow shows disruption of the FCU
tendon.