Surgical stabilization of shoulder luxation in a pot-bellied pig

Abstract

CASE DESCRIPTION—A 4.6-month-old pot-bellied pig was evaluated because of non–weightbearing lameness (grade 5/5) in the right forelimb of 4 days’ duration. CLINICAL FINDINGS—Clinical and radiographic examination revealed a closed, lateral luxation of the right shoulder joint. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME—Initial attempts at closed reduction failed to provide adequate stability of the shoulder joint. Open reduction and internal fixation by placement of 2 lateral tension sutures with a system designed for canine cranial cruciate ligament repair provided adequate joint stability and a successful outcome. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE—Stabilization of the shoulder joint with lateral tension sutures after open reduction should be considered for management of lateral shoulder luxation in pot-bellied pigs.