Surgical management of hollow hoof syndrome with compression shoeing in a geriatric mare

Hollow Hoof Syndrome (HHS) is a condition of equine foot that causes the hoof wall layers to separate. This separation starts at the solar surface of the foot and works its way dorsally (upward) toward the coronary band, though it can be managed with proper medical and surgical care. A mare was presented in Veterinary Clinical Complex, LUVAS, Hisar (India) with a history of lameness in right forelimb since last four months. Clinical examination revealed significant increase in the size of hoof accompanied with hard tissue swelling at fetlock joint and also nodding of head during landing of the affected hoof on the ground. Physical examination of hoof revealed that the epithelium of sole was eroded and 3rd phalanx was present just below the punctured keratinized epithelium at the solar surface of hoof. Radiographic examination revealed increased distance between the hoof wall and 3rd phalanx moving towards the apex of hoof confirming the rotation of pedal bone. Palmer digital nerve neurectomy was done to relieve the pain and use of compressive therapeutic shoe leads to uneventful recovery of animal.