Unilateral polydactylism in a German Holstein-Friesian calf - A case report

Abstract

This case report describes the diagnosis and surgical treatment of unilateral polydactylism of unknown origin in a calf. A six-week-old female German Holstein-Friesian calf was referred to the clinic with a hyperflexion of the fetlock and carpal joints of the right forelimb, associated with two surplus digits in the same leg, which was confirmed by radiographic examination. Surgery consisted of an osteotomy of the second metacarpal bone, a disarticulation in the antebrachiocarpal joint of the additional limb combined with an amputation of both odd digits. The follow-up of 12 months revealed a functionally sound heifer showing a good cosmetic outcome.