Morphology of the thoracic limb of goat as evidenced by gross osteology and radiology

Abstract

The objective of this study was to provide the detailed normal gross osteology and radiographic anatomy of the thoracic limb in goats as a reference for clinical use and in biomedical research. Radiography of the thoracic limb was performed in five small East African goats. Radiographic findings were correlated with bone specimens from four adult small East African goats. The scapula was narrow. The major tubercle was large and extended proximally above the head of the humerus. The lateral supracondylar crest was less prominent. The lateral and medial epicondyles of the humerus were almost of the same size. The lateral surface of the lateral condyle of the humerus presented a prominent depression for the origin of extensors of the carpus and digits. The cranially located radial notch was deep seated and the radial tuberosity was represented by a rough area located nearer to the head of the radius. The fifth metacarpal bone was seen in all animals. The morphology of the thoracic limb of small East African goats indicated the presence of powerful extensor muscles and is restricted to forward and backward movements as an adaptation to terrestrial lifestyle.

Gross osteology and radiology of the pelvic limb of the adult small East African goat

“…The aim of this study was to describe the normal gross osteology and radiographic anatomy of the pelvic limb of the adult small East African goat for use in the clinic, biomedical research and teaching. This study complements a recent report on the gross osteology and radiographic anatomy of the thoracic limb of the small East African goat (Makungu & Merere, ).…”

“…Radiography of the right pelvic limb was performed under general anaesthesia as described previously (Makungu & Merere, ). Animals were fasted for 12–24 hr, but water was provided ad libitum until shortly before general anaesthesia was administered.…”

“…Knowledge of the normal gross osteology and radiographic anatomy of the pelvic limb is important for diagnosis and monitoring healing process of musculoskeletal diseases and injuries involving the pelvic limb. To the author's knowledge, limited information is available concerning the normal gross osteology and radiographic anatomy of the appendicular skeleton of the small East African goat (Makungu & Merere, ).…”

Salter-Harris Type II Humeral Head Fracture with Kirschner Wire Fixation in a Goat

“…15,16 Dissimilarly to that of companion animals, goat humeri characteristically possess unique anatomical variances that result in a dense region of bone located in close proximity to the body, which may further reduce the likelihood of proximal humeral fractures in this species. [5][6][7][8][9] Epidemiological studies in paediatrics have identified Salter-Harris type II fractures of the proximal humeral epiphysis to be the most common fracture configuration and often the result of high energy trauma. 15,16 Such trauma typically results in fractures propagating along epiphyseal scar lines, with muscle forces on fracture fragments and limb position at the time of impact also in consideration for fracture type and severity.…”

“…7,8 Uniquely, goat humeri characteristically possess large and elongated greater and lesser tubercles that extend above the head of the humerus. 9 The aforementioned anatomical variations between domestic animals and ruminants are important for surgical planning and appropriate implant selection.…”