09/10/2021
Recent digital amputation of the forelimb in a dairy cow. This lady presented following the onset of significant lameness.
The lameness here is associated with what's known as 'Horizontal sand cracks' - which can be the result of laminitis (inflammation of the laminate or inner layers of the hoof wall)
In the image you see the protrusion of pink fleshy looking material which is known as granulation tissue ( the body's attempt to repair itself and regenerate the broken down tissue of the hoof)
It is the pinching of this granulation tissue that is protruding that is the source of the pain and lameness that results.
The extent of the granulation here meant that this lady needed her affected digit amputated.
