1. Non-Weight Bearing Lameness
John W. Gray, DVM
UTCVM Large Animal Intern

2. History Basic information Specific information Signalment
Current lameness
Past lameness
Specific information
Type of activity
Other info

3. Causes Subsolar abscess Fracture Septic joint, tendon sheath
Penetrating injury
Joint dislocation
Cellulitits
Quittor

4. Lateral Cartilages

5. Subsolar Absess

6. Non Weight Bearing Lameness
Usually involves one foot/ leg
Most likely cause is subsolar abscess
Don’t transport until assessed by your vet

7. Subsolar Abscess Clinical Signs
Increased digital pulse
Area of sensitivity in sole
Check coronary band for lesion (“Gravel”)

11. Subsolar Abscess Clinical Signs
Swelling
Sudden, severe lameness (Grade 3-4 of 5)
Affected foot is warmer

12. Subsolar Abscess Causes
Penetrating wound in white line, nail hole, or deep sub-solar bruise
Cause is often not identified

14. Diagnosis History Clinical signs Careful paring
Gray/black malodorous liquid
Radiographs
Poultice foot
Warm foot baths

16. Treatment Establish drainage Soak in Epsom salt water Drawing agents
Magnapaste
Ichthammol
Animalintex
Keep Clean
Bandage until defect closed
NSAIDs

20. Subsolar Abscess
Drawing agents
Soaking in Epsom Salts

21. Subsolar Abscess
Drawing agents
Soaking in Epsom Salts

22. Subsolar Abscess
Drawing agents
Soaking in Epsom Salts

23. Subsolar Abscess
Bandage with drawing agents
Magna paste
Icthamol

24. Subsolar Abscess
Bandage with drawing agents
Magna paste
Icthamol

26. Subsolar Abscess
Bandage with drawing agents
Magna paste
Icthamol

27. Subsolar Abscess
Bandage with drawing agents
Magna paste
Icthamol

28. Subsolar Abscess
Bandage with drawing agents
Magna paste
Icthamol

29. Complicated Absess

30. Complicated Absess

31. Complicated Absess

32. Subsolar Abscess Treatment
If the coffin bone is involved…
Regional anesthesia/ antibiotics
Tetanus prophylaxis
Soak foot in warm Epsom salt solution
Aftercare depends on extent of infection & environment

33. Subsolar Abscess Aftercare
Shoe w/ removable hospital (boiler or medicine) plate
Antibiotic & analgesic therapy is seldom required

34. Subsolar Abscess Prognosis
Usually excellent w/ uncomplicated subsolar abscess

35. Questions??