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Clinical Intent
This protocol addresses dogs undergoing partial or pancarpal arthrodesis, most commonly performed for severe carpal instability, hyperextension injury, degenerative joint disease, or complex fractures of the carpus. Surgical fusion stabilizes the limb by eliminating motion at the affected joints, allowing the dog to bear weight through a rigid but functional limb.
Clinical management focuses on protecting surgical fixation, controlling post-operative inflammation and swelling, and gradually restoring functional limb loading as the limb adapts to a permanently fused carpal joint. Early rehabilitation emphasizes safe weight acceptance, soft-tissue mobility, and prevention of compensatory dysfunction in the shoulder, elbow, and digits.
Clinical evaluation includes assessment of weight-bearing symmetry, gait mechanics, and proximal limb compensation, along with systematic palpation of the shoulder, elbow, distal antebrachium, and digits to identify secondary restrictions or overload patterns. Diagnostic imaging is typically used to confirm progression of osseous fusion, implant stability, and readiness for progressive loading during rehabilitation.
Clinical Intent
This protocol addresses dogs undergoing partial or pancarpal arthrodesis, most commonly performed for severe carpal instability, hyperextension injury, degenerative joint disease, or complex fractures of the carpus. Surgical fusion stabilizes the limb by eliminating motion at the affected joints, allowing the dog to bear weight through a rigid but functional limb.
Clinical management focuses on protecting surgical fixation, controlling post-operative inflammation and swelling, and gradually restoring functional limb loading as the limb adapts to a permanently fused carpal joint. Early rehabilitation emphasizes safe weight acceptance, soft-tissue mobility, and prevention of compensatory dysfunction in the shoulder, elbow, and digits.
Clinical evaluation includes assessment of weight-bearing symmetry, gait mechanics, and proximal limb compensation, along with systematic palpation of the shoulder, elbow, distal antebrachium, and digits to identify secondary restrictions or overload patterns. Diagnostic imaging is typically used to confirm progression of osseous fusion, implant stability, and readiness for progressive loading during rehabilitation.