Exposed digits increase weight bearing and alter sub-bandage pressures in dogs with forelimb splints.

Objective: The goal of this study was to evaluate the difference in weight bearing in a toes-in splint versus a toes-out forelimb splint and to determine the difference in sub-bandage pressures between the groups. We hypothesized that (1) weight bearing would not be different between the 2 splints and that (2) sub-bandage pressures would be distributed higher on the distal digits in the toes-out splint and pressures would be more evenly distributed across the paw in the toes-in splint.

Methods: In this controlled crossover trial, a random forelimb of 10 healthy dogs was bandaged with a splint that left the digits exposed and again with a splint that encompassed the digits.