Bilateral hemimelia of radio in canine – case report

Abstract

Hemimelia or agenesis is a congenital morphological change that may affect the appendicular skeleton. This rare anomaly is the total or partial absence of one or more bones matched. It may present unilaterally or bilaterally, with the most frequent unilateral. In dogs, the most common form of the radial hemimelia is that causes deformity of the affected limb and severe functional limitations. Was Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Mato Grosso (HOVET/UFMT), a canine, female mongrel, with 30 days of age, presenting deformity in thoracic limbs since birth, observed signs of lameness and difficulty support. After complete bone development the animal returned for re-evaluation and establishment of appropriate treatment. On radiographic examination, there was bilateral agenesis of radios, angulation of the ulnar cranially, fusion of carpal bones proximal and distal to the ranks, bilateral scapulohumeral dislocation and the presence of a bone structure with well-defined boundaries and rectangular articulated with the scapula. Due to good quality of life of the animal and reserved prognosis of surgery, we opted for conservation of members. The owner was recommended to keep the animal in an environment with soft ground and castration.