Digit Amputation Surgery Services

Digit amputation is a surgical procedure commonly performed on pets, particularly dogs, to remove a damaged or diseased toe. This procedure is typically indicated for conditions such as neoplasia, osteomyelitis, or trauma15.

Procedure

The surgical process for digit amputation in pets involves the following steps:

1. Pre-surgical examination and blood work to ensure the pet is a suitable candidate for anesthesia2.
2. Administration of general anesthesia2.
3. Preparation of the surgical site by shaving and cleaning the area2.
4. Application of an Esmarch tourniquet around the metatarsal region for haemostasis3.
5. Incision and removal of the affected digit, typically at the level of the metacarpophalangeal or metatarsophalangeal joint15.
6. Suturing and bandaging of the wound2.

Post-operative Care

After the surgery, proper care is crucial for a successful recovery:

1. Confinement: Keep your pet in a secure, quiet, and comfortable space for 24-48 hours as anesthesia wears off2.
2. E-collar: Ensure your pet wears an Elizabethan collar for 10-14 days to prevent licking of the incision site2.
3. Bandaging: A light, soft, padded bandage is often applied for 1-2 weeks post-surgery to protect the incision and provide support during early weight bearing5.
4. Antibiotics: Post-operative antibiotics are usually recommended due to the relatively contaminated location of the surgery4.

Outcomes and Complications

Most pets tolerate digit amputation well, with the majority experiencing excellent functional outcomes14. However, pet owners should be aware of potential complications:

• Short-term complications (other than lameness) occur in about 39.4% of cases, including incisional dehiscence, infection, and delayed healing15.
• Long-term lameness (>14 days post-surgery) is observed in about 25% of cases, but it’s often mild or intermittent1.

Importantly, contrary to previous concerns, amputation of digits 3 and 4 does not seem to result in worse outcomes compared to amputation of other digits15.

Conclusion

While digit amputation is generally well-tolerated with good long-term outcomes, pet owners should be informed about potential short-term complications. With proper surgical technique, post-operative care, and owner compliance, most pets can return to normal function after this procedure5.