Digit amputation

• Digital amputation is the surgical removal of the digit/claw.
• With appropriate candidate selection, amputation of the digit provides pain relief, improved welfare, improved production, and often a return to almost 100% normal gait. 
• In some cases digit amputation is classed as a salvage procedure.
• Conditions that may warrant this procedure include: 
  • Penetrating injury to the hoof.
  • Deep infection of the foot.
  • Fractures/ dislocations.
  • Chronic lesions that have failed to respond to conventional treatment such as foul, and non-healing white line lesions, toe necrosis etc, where secondary digital dermatitis infection is involved.
• In many cases, however, culling may be a more economically sound option, depending on the age of the cow, and should be considered,.
• Digit amputation is not appropriate for very heavy animals or those with disease in both claws.
• The majority of digit amputations are carried out on hind limbs (because most cases of lameness are in hind limbs). Amputation of fore digits can also be successful.
•  Amputation of the medial (inner) claw carries a better prognosis than amputation of the lateral (outer) claw.
• Many cows undergoing this procedure will respond well, be back in the herd in 4 – 6 weeks and go on to have a near normal existence in the herd.