380 DISEASES OF THE ARTICULATIONS 



ing of the ligamentous attachments around the joints. A 

 congenital dislocation is sometimes observed. 



Etiology. The condition is brought about by injuries, such 

 as blows from the outside or inside, extreme flexion or exten- 

 sion of the joint, falling, or jumping. Frequently the limb 

 is given a sudden twist by the foot being caught when the 

 animal is in motion, or pulling backward to free itself. 



Symptoms. Distortion of the articulation is noted, and 

 the lower limb in an abnormal position, either abducted or 

 adducted. There is an enlargement present on one side and 

 a corresponding depression on the opposite. The limb 

 appears short, and the animal refuses to place any weight 

 on it when in motion or at rest. Examination reveals the 

 joint to be hot and painful when manipulated. The dis- 

 placed bone can easily be palpated, and the luxation deter- 

 mined. 



Prognosis. Not very favorable owing to the injury to the 

 annular ligaments, and the possibility of a return of the 

 condition. 



Treatment. Reduction of the dislocation should be made 

 under general anesthesia. The method of procedure will 

 depend upon the dislocation. As a rule but little difficulty 

 will be experienced in bringing the parts back to their normal 

 position. After reduction of the luxation the parts should 

 be bandaged to hold them in position. The bandage should 

 be left in place for two or three weeks, or until the annular 

 ligaments are united. Congenital luxation is unsatisfactory 

 from the standpoint of treatment. Wiring of the bones 

 might be tried in cases that cannot be kept in position by 

 bandaging. 



Radio-ulnar-carpal. From violent injury luxation of this 

 articulation may take place. The annular ligaments become 

 torn allowing the articular surfaces to be displaced. 



Symptoms. Distortion of the articulation either forward 

 or backward is most common. 



Diagnosis. The diagnosis is not difficult when a careful 

 examination is made. 



Treatment. Reduction of the luxation is easy, but it 

 requires several weeks before the animal will be able to use 



