[Treatment of purulent hoof joint inflammation in cattle by joint resection--results]

In cattle purulent arthritis of the distal interphalangeal joint is a severe and relatively frequent disease of the claw. In many cases it is possible to avoid amputation and to maintain the function of the affected digit by resection of the joint. Surgical procedure and results of joint resection, carried out in 281 cases, are described. In 71 of the 281 animals a clinical and radiographical reexamination could be performed between three months and six years after surgery. In 59 cases (83%) the function of the operated claw was unimpaired. Ankylosis of the joint was observed in 41 (58%) cases and occurred between 7 to 12 months post op. The operated claw supported the contralateral claw in its weightbearing function. The animals could be kept on slatted floor as well as on pasture. In comparison to amputation the animals can be used longer after joint resection.