Local anaesthesia and analgesia guidance for surgical treatment of cows with necrotic hoof lesions

Abstract

Necrotic hoof lesions are an increasingly common finding amongst chronically lame cows in UK dairy herds. Some vets have reported these lesions as the most common indication for claw amputation, replacing historic causes such as deep digital sepsis. More recently, some hoof trimmers and cattle veterinarians have adopted a surgical debridement approach with some success, leading to resolution of lesions once called ‘non-healing’. A key part of success is ensuring there is regional or local anaesthesia of the distal limb, and sufficient analgesia during and following the procedure to manage pain. This article reviews some of the considerations for cattle practitioners.