In order for a pet/patient to be a candidate for a front leg prosthetic device, there are three minimum requirements needed:
1). The pet/patient needs to have at least 30%-40% of the radius and ulna remaining so that the pet/patient can control the prosthetic. Less than this amount of radius and ulna means the patient is unable to control the length of the socket prosthesis with its forearm.
2). The pet/patient must have a functional elbow joint in order to control the prosthesis. This means that the pet/patient needs to have full control over its muscles and condition of the elbow joint must be amenable to use of the limb during weight-bearing.
3). The prosthesis must be able to gain purchase and suspension from the humerus. This requires access to the medial side of the humerus approaching the patient’s armpit.
Still unsure if your pet is a candidate for a forelimb prosthesis? Shoot us an email at info@orthopets.com or give us a call Monday through Thursday 9am – 5pm MST and we will be able to help you determine if a hindlimb prosthesis is right for your pet or for your patient.