Radiographic and computed tomographic evaluation and gait analysis of Brazilian minipigs with syndactyly

Author(s)

Justolin, Pedro L. T. ; Rahal, Sheila C. ; Agostinho, Felipe S. ; Mamprim, Maria J. ; Teixeira, Carlos R. ; Doiche, Danuta P. ; Babicsak, Vivian R.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: AMERICAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY RESEARCH; v. 77, n. 9, p. 976-982, SEP 2016.
• Web of Science Citations: 0

Abstract

OBJECTIVE To characterize a population of Brazilian minipigs with naturally occurring syndactyly by use of plain radiographs and CT images and to evaluate kinetic and temporospatial variables by use of a pressure-sensing walkway. ANIMALS 10 Brazilian minipigs from 6 to 8 months of age (group 1, 5 healthy pigs {[}body weight, 10.5 to 18.5 kg]; group 2, 5 pigs with syndactyly {[}body weight, 7.5 to 18.0 kg]). PROCEDURES Forelimbs and hind limbs of all pigs were assessed by use of radiography and CT. Gait was analyzed by use of a pressure-sensing walkway. RESULTS All limbs of all pigs of group 2 had syndactyly. Two forelimbs had complex-1 syndactyly, and 8 forelimbs had complex-2 syndactyly. Four hind limbs had simple syndactyly, 1 hind limb had complex-1 syndactyly, and 5 hind limbs had complex-2 syndactyly. Kinetic and temporospatial values and symmetry indices did not differ between groups. Plantar and palmar surfaces of healthy pigs had 2 areas of maximum pressure, whereas plantar and palmar surfaces of pigs with syndactyly had only 1 area of maximum pressure. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE In this population of pigs, the most common type of syndactyly was complex-2, and comparison with the healthy group revealed no alteration in kinetic and temporospatial variables. Therefore, results suggested that syndactyly in young minipigs did not cause locomotor disturbances. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 09/18299-7 - Pressure walkway measurement analysis in sheep
• Grantee: Sheila Canevese Rahal
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants