Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Hygroma in a dog


A hygroma is a false bursa that occurs over bony prominences and pressure points, especially in large breeds of dogs. Repeated friction or trauma from lying on hard surfaces produces an inflammatory response, which results in a dense-walled, fluid-filled cavity. A soft, fluctuant, painless swelling develops over pressure points, especially the olecranon. If long-standing, severe inflammation may develop, and ulceration, infection, and fistulas may be present. The bursa contains a clear, yellow to red fluid.
Hygromas can be prevented by providing soft bedding, or beds made of orthopedic foam. Animals recovering from surgery should be turned from side to side multiple times during the day.

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