378 DISEASES OF THE ARTICULATIONS 



DISLOCATION OF THE ARTICULATIONS. LUXATION. 



Dislocation of the various articulations in dogs, cats and 

 rabbits is a common occurrence. Birds often have luxation 

 of the joints of the wings. 



The following are the most common dislocations found in 

 small animals: 



Temporomaxillary. — This occurs more frequently in dogs 

 than in any other animal. 



Etiology.— Resulting in most cases from extreme opening 

 of the mouth, either from being forcibly pulled open, or from 

 large objects being taken into the mouth. The condition 

 may be either unilateral or bilateral. 



Symptoms.— Fixation of the lower maxilla either laterally 

 (in case of unilateral luxation), or downward and forward 

 (bilateral luxation). Saliva flows from the mouth freely, the 

 animal is unable to move the maxilla, or only slightly, and 

 shows considerable anxiety and pain. Pawing at the mouth 

 with the forefeet, rubbing the parts against objects, and 

 carrying the head in abnormal positions, are prominent 

 symptoms. Patients showing these symptoms should be 

 handled carefully, as in some respects they are not unlike 

 dumb rabies. Examination will easily reveal the differential 

 features. 



Prognosis.— Usually favorable, except when the case is of 

 too long standing and fracture of the bones is present. There 

 is always the possibility of a recurrence. 



Treatment.— Reduction of the dislocation should be made 

 early. The animal should be anesthetized (morphin sulphate, 

 0.1 to 0.2), placed on a suitable table in the dorsal position, 

 and by using a fulcrum inserted between the teeth, the jaws 

 are forced apart by bringing the incisors together. By 

 careful manipulation the bones are replaced in their normal 

 position. Considerable patience is often necessary to accom- 

 plish this. If fractures are present but little can be done. 

 Use artificial feeding of liquid foods for a few days. It is 

 advisable to tape the mouth shut for a few days until the 

 articulations are normal again. 



