Surgical treatment of osteomyelitis and sequestration of the ilium by a cranial partial hemipelvectomy in an alpaca cria

Abstract

A 12-week-old female alpaca cria weighing 10 kg presented with a 2-month history of left hindlimb lameness associated with osteomyelitis and sequestration of the shaft and wing of the left ilium. The affected segment of the ilium was surgically removed. Bacteriological culture revealed a small number of mixed aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. The cria recovered well, was discharged from the hospital 8 days after surgery and was paddock sound without complications 8 months later. Osteomyelitis and sequestration of long bones has been reported in alpacas, but further investigation is necessary to define the prevalence and pathogenesis and to develop specific recommendations for prevention and treatment.