K. Taguchi, DVM, PhD, S. Nakamura, DVM and K. Hyakutake, DVM Veterinary Record December 2010 167 23 904-906 Two cases of extensor process fracture of the distal phalanx in the forelimb in a Holstein bull and a lactating Holstein cow are described. Each animal showed acute onset of severe lameness with a gait characterised by lengthening of the cranial phase of the step in order to place more weight on the heel. Mild swelling and a localised pain response upon application of deep pressure above the coronet were also observed. A definitive diagnosis was made by radiography with complementary ultrasonography, which provided the best definition of the fracture fragment over the dorsal aspect of the distal interphalangeal joint. Applying a wooden block to a sound claw for three weeks was curative and provided a good prognosis in both cases.

• Miscellaneous
• Ruminant