DISLOCATION OF THE ARTICULATIONS— LUXATION 379 



Vertebral.— Dislocation unattended by fracture is rare. 

 The articulations are so arranged anatomically that luxation 

 without fracture is not liable to occur. Partial luxation is 

 met with occasionally and is diagnosed by the position of 

 the head and curvature of the vertebrae. Straightening the 

 head and neck should be attempted. 



Scapulohumeral.— Owing to the position of the articulation 

 and its anatomical structure complete luxation is not com- 

 mon. The articulation is capable of rather extensive move- 

 ment without dislocation. 



Etiology.— It is brought about by excessive flexion of the 

 joint from injuries and accidents. The luxation is usually 

 forward and inward. 



Symptoms.— The condition occurs suddenly and distortion 

 of the joint is apparent at once. The joint is held in a flexed 

 position and distention is practically impossible. The limb 

 is much shorter than normal. Examination of the articula- 

 tion reveals the head of the humerus forward producing an 

 enlargement anteriorly and a depression posteriorly. Animals 

 show pain on manipulation of the joint. 



Prognosis. — In complete luxation the prognosis is favorable 

 when taken early but later when swelling takes place reduc- 

 tion is difficult, and the joint capsule will rarely resume its 

 normal condition. Partial luxations are favorable. 



Treatment.— The animal should be anesthetized (morphin 

 sulphate, 0.1 to 0.2), placed on the table in lateral recumbency 

 with the affected articulation presented. Extend the humerus 

 and push backward on the head of the humerus. Usually 

 replacement will take place without much difficulty. Apply 

 a bandage for a few days to protect the part. Massage and 

 a stimulating liniment should be applied around the joint. 



Humero-radio-ulnar. —Luxation of this articulation may be 

 partial or complete. Various conditions can be found owing 

 to the anatomical structure of the joint. The dislocation 

 may be between the humerus and radius or between the 

 radius and ulna. In some fcases all of the structures are 

 involved. The dislocation may take place to the inside or 

 outside depending upon the cause of the condition. When 

 dislocation occurs there is nearly always a tearing or stretch- 



