The use of arthroscopy in the treatment of septic arthritis in two Highland calves.

Septic polyarthritis is a common condition in the young bovine animal. Systemic antibacterial treatment is often not sufficient to eliminate the infection, particularly in the subacute or chronic stages. More invasive procedures, including joint drainage and arthrotomy, are often unsatisfactory, either because of the failure to cure the condition or because of the associated complications. This article describes the use of arthroscopy in the treatment of infectious arthritis and osteomyelitis in two calves. In one case, two joints were explored and debrided successfully during the same intervention. The advantages of this technique to treat septic arthritis in the bovine are described and discussed. The use of diagnostic ultrasonography to confirm joint involvement is also described.