Femoral head resection in two Shetland ponies suffering from coxofemoral luxation

Coxofemoral luxation is a rare condition in the equine species but most commonly found in foals or small ponies following a trauma. Clinical signs are rather characteristic: severe lameness, exorotation of the limb, upward displacement of the calcaneus on the affected limb compared to the contralateral one and only loading the foot on the toe. Diagnosis can be confirmed with radiographies or ultrasonography of the hip. There are several treatment options, all of which have a guarded prognosis.
This case report concerns a coxofemoral dislocation in two Shetland ponies complicated by a proximal fixation of the patella. They were treated with a resection of the femoral head and a desmotomy of the medial patellar ligament. One pony died during the first postoperative days because of digestive complications. The second one had a good evolution. Progressive controlled exercise have been introduced and its comfort has been increased by the development of several orthopedic shoes.