SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF HYPODERMIC NEEDLE INDUCED LAMENESS IN A HALLIKAR HEIFER – A CASE REPORT

P. Sankar; R. Pooja; R. Yalini; M. Vijayakumar; S. Dharmaceelan; S. Kathirvel

doi:10.56093/ijvasr.v55i4.181150

Authors

P. Sankar Associate Professor, Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Veterinary College and Research Institute, TANUVAS, Namakkal - 637 002
R. Pooja M.V.Sc. Scholar, Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Veterinary College and Research Institute, TANUVAS, Namakkal - 637 002
R. Yalini Fourth professional year student, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal - 637 002
M. Vijayakumar Assistant Professor, Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Veterinary College and Research Institute, TANUVAS, Namakkal - 637 002
S. Dharmaceelan Professor and Head, Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Veterinary College and Research Institute, TANUVAS, Namakkal - 637 002
S. Kathirvel Professor and Head, Veterinary Clinical Complex, Veterinary College and Research Institute, TANUVAS, Namakkal - 637 002

https://doi.org/10.56093/ijvasr.v55i4.181150

Keywords:

Needle penetration, hoof, lameness, race heifer

Abstract

Sharp penetrating foreign bodies in the hoof are important causes of chronic lameness in bovines. Improper disposal of needles after repeated injections or doping practices in race animals may result in accidental hoof penetration injuries. The present communication describes a case of a race heifer presented with pain and lameness of the left fore hoof. Radiographic examination revealed a radio-opaque metallic foreign body within the hoof region. Surgical exploration under sedation and Bier’s block led to successful retrieval of a rusted 16 G needle without hub from the axial side of the hoof. Post-operative treatment resulted in uneventful recovery. The report highlights the importance of radiographic examination in bovines presented with chronic lameness of unknown origin and emphasizes the impact of improper needle disposal on animal welfare.

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