Amputation and prosthesis.

Abstract

Amputation of a limb is a drastic therapy in cattle and should be considered as a last resort in the treatment of limb injuries. Even though the surgical technique for amputation is simple, daily limb management, prosthesis manufacture, and adaptation of the animal to the prosthesis are difficult and time consuming. Dedication of the owner to the aftercare required for the rest of the animal's life is extremely important. Amputation of a limb with prosthesis application is a method of saving valuable animals for breeding purposes or animals of sentimental value. The author reviews his experience with partial foreleg amputation and prosthesis application in three heifers.