Total hip replacement in an alpaca using a cementless implant
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Kara L Schulz1, James K Roush, David E Anderson
1Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA. kschulz@vet.ksu.edu
Objective:
To report use of a cementless total hip prosthesis in an alpaca.
Study Design:
Case report.
Animals:
Alpaca (n=1) with chronic craniodorsal coxofemoral luxation.
Methods:
A 2.5-year-old Suri alpaca, 3 months pregnant, was admitted for evaluation of acute onset severe left hind limb lameness (grade 4/5) of 6 weeks duration. After diagnosis of craniodorsal luxation of the left femoral head, total hip replacement (THR) using a cementless implant was performed because of the poor prognosis for reduction of a chronic luxation.
Results:
A press-fit prosthesis was used and the alpaca delivered a live cria 8 months later. Persistent mild mechanical lameness remained after surgery, with moderate reduction in mobility of the coxofemoral joint. The prosthesis was stable and correctly positioned at 7 weeks and at 9 months. There was mild exostosis surrounding the proximal aspect of the femur at 9 months, and Steinmann pins used to repair the trochanteric osteotomy were removed because of migration. At 1 year, the alpaca has a slight gait abnormality, remains with the herd on pasture and has been re-bred.
Conclusion:
Chronic coxofemoral luxation in an alpaca can be managed by THR.
Clinical Relevance:
THR is a viable treatment option in alpacas with severe coxofemoral disease.
