Functional and feasibility aspects of orthopedic exoprostheses in quadruped domestic animals: a systematic review.

Overview

• This study systematically reviews the practicality and effectiveness of orthopedic exoprostheses (external prosthetic limbs) for quadruped domestic animals with partial limb amputations, analyzing outcomes across different species and sizes.
• The review highlights factors that influence successful adaptation to prostheses and the limitations encountered, with implications for improving veterinary prosthetic care and animal quality of life.

Introduction and Purpose

• Prostheses for animals with partial limb loss have become a potential alternative to euthanasia, aiming to restore mobility and enhance quality of life.
• Despite the promise, challenges exist regarding the design, fabrication, and fitting of prosthetics in veterinary contexts.
• The study’s goal was to systematically evaluate:
  • The feasibility and functional outcomes of orthopedic exoprostheses in domestic quadruped animals.
  • Determinants that affect viability including the animal’s species, size, amputation level, temperament, and prosthesis characteristics.
  • Complications and limitations observed in clinical cases reported in scientific literature.

Methodology

• A comprehensive literature search was performed across five major databases: ScienceDirect, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar.
• Search terms included combinations related to prosthesis, veterinary medicine, and amputation to identify relevant studies.
• After screening, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed in detail.
• Studies covered animals of different sizes:
  • Small animals: 7 studies (6 canines, 1 feline)
  • Medium-sized animals: 5 studies (4 juvenile bovines, 1 adult pony)
  • Large animals: 3 studies (adult horses)
• Extracted data included:
  • Species and body size
  • Temperament and behavior
  • Amputation level
  • Prosthetic material used
  • Complications encountered
  • Involvement of animal owners in care and follow-up

Key Findings

• Canine prostheses:
  • Displayed the most favorable functional outcomes and adaptation.
  • Better prognosis attributed to manageable size, temperament, and prosthesis fitting.
• Medium and Large Animals:
  • Cases involving juvenile bovines, ponies, and horses showed more challenges.
  • Critical issues:
    • The level of amputation significantly impacted prosthesis success.
    • Material strength and durability were limiting factors due to the weight and activity level of larger animals.
    • Risk of overload injuries was high, which can negatively affect long-term quality of life.
• Prosthetic Materials and Innovation:
  • 3D printing emerged as a promising technology to create customized prosthetic components tailored to individual anatomy.
  • However, further research is necessary to enhance mechanical robustness and longevity of printed prosthetic parts.

Interpretation and Implications

• Successful adaptation to orthopedic exoprostheses requires careful case selection, including:
  • Assessing the health and condition of the residual limb (stump).
  • Considering the animal’s overall health and temperament to ensure compliance.
  • Designing and planning prosthesis according to biomechanical needs and amputation specifics.
• Long-term follow-up and owner cooperation are critical components to monitor complications and to adjust prosthetic devices as needed.
• The research underscores that while promising, prosthetic application in larger domestic animals is still evolving due to biomechanical and material challenges.
• Advancements like 3D printing may revolutionize veterinary prosthetics by allowing quicker, more customized production but require validation for strength and durability.
• Overall, prosthetic use offers a viable option to avoid euthanasia, improve mobility, and enhance the quality of life where appropriately applied.

Conclusion

• Orthopedic exoprostheses are a feasible solution for amputated limbs in quadruped domestic animals when supported by thoughtful planning and ongoing management.
• Outcomes vary by species and size, with smaller animals showing better adaptation compared to medium and large ones.
• Continued research and technological developments are needed to overcome current material and design limitations, particularly for larger animals.
• The study provides a foundation for veterinary clinicians considering prosthetic solutions and highlights areas for future innovation in veterinary orthopedics.