Orthopaedic problems in llamas and alpacas: clinical and radiological aspects

Abstract

Llamas and alpacas show only reduced signs of pain in cases of orthopaedic problems. For that reason early indications of orthopaedic problems might be overlooked. In some cases orthopaedic problems could be inherited. X-rays of 195 llamas and alpacas were analysed for problems in the region of the spine and the legs. The radiographs were taken as a diagnostic aid in patients or were made for scientific purposes from carcasses or parts of it. The results revealed problems which are similar in other domestic species, such as fractures, joint infection, osteoporosis, rickets, patella luxation, spondylosis, carpus angular deformity, and malformation of the elbow. More specific to the anatomy of camelids are the subluxation of the vertebra of the cervical spine and problems with the pastern. Examples of these findings will be presented and discussed.