LA Ortho - Subsolar Abcessess

Question 1

Location for abscesses

Answer 1

Superficial infection of the dermis (corium) of sole
Lameness occurs from inflammation and pressure in a closed cavity infection

Question 2

Causes for abscesses

Answer 2

Migration of dirt/bacteria up the “white line”
Bad nail
Superficial puncture wound

Question 3

Clinical signs

Answer 3

Severe acute lameness (grade 3-5)
Reluctant to bear weight
strong digital pulse (could be unilateral)
Can feel heat at hoof capsule (coronet band or heel bulb)

Question 4

Importance in palpating coronat band and heel bulb

Answer 4

Those are common places where an abcess would rupture from, area prior to rupture skin will be soft and extremely tender

Question 5

Diagnosing abscess

Answer 5

Localize area of sensitivity w hoof testers
Have a system
If you can’t remove the shoe test over each nail to test for a bad nail

Question 6

Treatment of abscess

Answer 6

Use a hoof knife to conduct a careful exam of the white line and sole - paper thin shavings off perimeter of foot to examine white line thoroughly
- looking for black streaks that would indicate breeches in the white line

Question 7

Treatment for subsolar abscesses

Answer 7

Exploration should be minimally invasive
Radiographs can be helpful in cases of gas producing bacteria
Salt soaks daily
Dress site w antiseptic (furazone) & bandage
Use water proof layer

Question 8

Differential diagnosis

Answer 8

Rule out sole bruises, coffin bone fractures & deep puncture wounds
Prognosis is good for simple subsolar abscesses (1-2wks)