Retrospective Analysis of Prosthesis use by Dogs with Partial Limbs

Introduction: Exoprostheses for treatment of distal limb pathology are becoming increasingly prevalent in veterinary medicine; however, only a single case series documenting outcomes of this treatment in dogs has been published in the current peer-reviewed literature. The objective of the present study is to retrospectively evaluate outcomes and identify prognostic factors associated with dogs receiving exoprostheses for partial limbs.

Materials and Methods: An online survey was developed to evaluate owner-reported outcomes associated with exoprostheses for canine patients. The survey inquired about the residuum, concurrent disease, prosthesis use, rehabilitation, activity, complications, and owner satisfaction. Medical records and radiographs were obtained where available. The survey was analyzed by assigning numeric scores to responses.

Results: The response rate was 50/137 (36.5%); 47 responses were analyzed. Forty-six of 47 owners reported positive satisfaction; 1/47 was displeased. Forty-two of 47 dogs were scored to have positive clinical outcomes; 5/47 had poor clinical outcomes. A 61.7% short-term complication rate and a 19.1% long-term complication rate were reported. Skin sores were the most common complication. Residual limb factors, concurrent disease, and rehabilitation had no relationship to satisfaction or outcome. Time spent in the prosthesis had a positive association with satisfaction and outcomes.

Discussion/Conclusion: Results of this survey suggest a high degree of owner satisfaction despite substantial complication rates. Based on this preliminary data, further evaluation of exoprostheses as a limb-sparing option for treatment of distal limb pathology should be considered. Prospective clinical trials with objective outcome measures are required to draw firm conclusions.

Acknowledgement: There was no proprietary interest or funding provided for this project.