Brachial Plexus Avulsion in Dogs
Dogs and cats may suffer from a forelimb condition known as brachial plexus avulsion due to incidents such as jumping, road accidents, traumatic falls, or entanglements. It’s crucial for a veterinarian to conduct an examination and assessment promptly, as there may be a risk of spinal cord injury or other severe damage. Seeking immediate medical attention is strongly recommended for pets affected by this condition.
Symptoms and Types
Symptoms commonly observed in dogs with this condition include muscle weakness, lack of pain perception, restricted shoulder movement, and difficulty bearing weight on their paws.
Causes
The primary causes of foreleg injuries in dogs typically include road accidents, significant falls, or instances where the dog’s foot becomes caught while jumping.
Diagnosis
To diagnose the condition, a veterinarian may utilize magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or a computer tomography (CT) scan to assess the dog’s internal structures. The examination aims to identify any spinal cord injuries or related neurological issues.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Typically, the first step involves bandaging the foreleg to shield it from further harm. Anti-inflammatory medications are frequently administered to reduce swelling. In cases where the injury cannot be mended or poses a threat to life, amputation may be necessary.
Living and Management
After treatment, it’s advisable to monitor the dog clinically to track improvements in the injured area. One common recommendation is to confine the dog to prevent further complications to the injury. Additionally, using protective bandaging to secure the limb is advised. Physical therapy may be recommended to help the dog regain muscle strength during the recovery process. It’s crucial to observe the dog’s behavior post-treatment as there’s a risk of infection if the dog repeatedly rubs its paws on the ground. Moreover, preventing the dog from self-mutilation to alleviate pain and discomfort is important. In most instances, cases will resolve within a few months of initial diagnosis and treatment.
Prevention
At present, there are no preventive measures available for this medical condition.
