Coxofemoral luxations in cattle: 22 cases (1980-1985)

Traumatic, unilateral coxofemoral luxation was diagnosed in 22 female dairy cattle (12 calves less than or equal to 13 months old, 10 adults). Physical examination differentiated between dorsal and ventral luxations, but could not distinguish luxations from fractures of the proximal aspect of the femur that occurred in 2 additional adults. Luxations were confirmed by radiography in 5 animals. Closed reduction was accomplished in only 1 calf. A craniolateral surgical approach to the hip, using mechanically assisted traction, was successful in reducing 95% (20/21) of the luxations. Craniodorsal luxations (16) were most common. Ninety-four percent of the animals were ambulatory before surgery. None had concomitant musculoskeletal injuries and 75% (12/16) survived for a long period. Five of 6 animals with ventral luxations arrived recumbent, with serious complicating musculoskeletal injuries, and only 2 of these animals survived for a long period. Calves had a better long-term survival rate (75% vs 50%) and a lower reluxation rate (17% vs 40%), compared with adults.