SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF A TARSAL LUXATION IN A RED KANGAROO (OSPHRANTER RUFUS)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Orthopedics
• Macropod Surgery
• Wildlife Rehabilitation

Background:

• Joint luxations are common traumatic injuries in animals.
• Macropod hind-limb anatomy presents unique surgical challenges.
• Limited reports exist on successful orthopedic injury management in kangaroos.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the surgical and postoperative management of a tibiotarsal luxation in a red kangaroo.
• To detail the treatment of complications including wound and implant infection.

Main Methods:

• Surgical reduction and tarsal arthrodesis were performed on a red kangaroo with a tibiotarsal luxation.
• Postoperative management included monitoring for complications.
• Antibiotic regional limb perfusion was utilized to treat infection.

Main Results:

• The kangaroo achieved normal ambulation at slow speeds post-surgery, despite limited tarsal joint range of motion.
• Significant postoperative complications, including wound and implant infection, were encountered.
• Successful treatment of infection was achieved with antibiotic regional limb perfusion.

Conclusions:

• Tarsal arthrodesis is a feasible surgical option for tibiotarsal luxation in kangaroos.
• Careful postoperative management is crucial due to potential complications.
• Antibiotic regional limb perfusion is an effective treatment for implant-associated infections in wildlife.