Excision arthroplasty of the interphalangeal joint as an alternative to digit amputation in two dogs.

Excision arthroplasty of the interphalangeal joint was used as an alternative to digit amputation for comminuted fractures of the phalangeal bones in two dogs. Both patients had return of pain-free use of the affected limb, even though both weight-bearing digits were involved in one case. This type of surgery might prove to be superior to the more invasive digit amputation, salvaging the digits and providing a better functional outcome.