Anatomy and surgical approach to the humerus, radius and ulna of common sloth (Bradypus variegatus)

: The surgical clinic of wild animals has increased in routine veterinary, where fractures by traumas are of frequent occurrence. This study determined the surgical accesses for osteosynthesis of the diaphyses of the humerus, radius and ulna of common sloth (Bradypus variegatus). Seven cadavers of B. variegatus were used for determination of the muscles of the thoracic limb, as well as the most important vessels and nerves, and better bone area for fixation of internal implants. The structural conformation of the radius and ulna in Bradypus variegatus were like those described in the literature for domestic animals but the humerus presented differences in the distal extremity because it was flattened. The musculature of Bradypus variegatus showed similarities with domestic animals. Due the different conformation of the humerus the surgical access to this bone can be performed by lateral approach, from the incision of M. triceps brachii lateral head, for fixation of the implant on the lateral side of the bone. Surgical access to the radius shaft can be performed by craniolateral approach, by incising the muscular fascia and separation of the cranially M. common digital extensor, and lateral digital extensor caudally. In ulna, a caudal access to the bone can be performed followed by release of the insertion m. flexor carpoulnar for placement of the internal implant on the lateral bone face.