Hip dislocation in calves - a new approach for correction by closed method*

The study was undertaken to evolve a suitable technique which can be adopted under field conditions for the management of coxofemoral luxations in calves. In six male crossbred calves, coxofemoral luxation was induced under anaesthesia. After closed reduction, immobilisation was effected by the fixation of two Steinmann pins at the greater trochanter, one through the wing of ilium and the other through tuber ischii and connecting the exposed ends by an external connecting assembly. All the animals were able to support weight at rest by 5th day. Lameness during progression disappeared once the fixation assembly was removed. Radiographic studies showed normal alignment of femoral head in acetabulum in all the animals. The technique of closed reduction along with external fixation was found satisfactory for reduction and immobilization of coxofemoral luxation in calves.