Fenestration of the abaxial hoof wall and implantation of gentamicin-impregnated collagen sponges for the treatment of septic arthritis of the distalinterphalangeal joint in cattle

A novel surgical approach to the distal interphalangeal joint of cattle, th rough the abaxial hoof wall, for the treatment of septic arthritis is descr ibed. in seven cattle a rectangular piece of horn (15 x 40 mm) was excised from the abaxial hoof wall and the joint was lavaged with Ringer's solution . infected and/or necrotic tissue was removed from the joint and gentamicin -impregnated collagen sponges were introduced. The piece of horn was reatta ched, a rubber block was glued to the contralateral claw, and a bandage app lied. Aftercare consisted of changes of bandage, systemic administration of antimicrobial drugs and box rest. At follow-up, six of the cattle were sou nd but one cow which had been slaughtered five months after surgery had rem ained slightly lame.