Botulinum Toxin Injection for Laminitis Tension Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for laminitis in horses, such as wedge shoes and surgical transection of the deep digital flexor tendon, are invasive and carry risks, and there is a need for a proactive, non-invasive method to effectively treat and prevent the condition without causing further damage.
Innovation Solution
Administering Botulinum Toxin Type A into the flexor digitorum profundus muscle to relax the deep digital flexor tendon, reducing the tensile forces that contribute to lamina separation and promoting hoof regeneration by realigning the distal phalanx within the hoof capsule.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wedge shoes are nailed onto the hoof, then the hoof capsule may be compressed, but the wedge shoe can be securely attached
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses glue as an intermediary substance between the wedge shoe and hoof, replacing direct mechanical nailing. This intermediary approach achieves secure attachment while eliminating the harmful compression and physical trauma caused by nail insertion into the hoof capsule.
2Reliability
If wedge shoes are glued onto the hoof, then attachment is achieved, but the horse may be forced to hold one foot up for an extended period of time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the angle parameter of the wedge shoe to match the specific rotational deviation of each horse's distal phalanx. By customizing the wedge angle based on individual case severity and hoof adaptation, the treatment becomes more effective and requires less time for the horse to maintain elevated position during healing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the wedge shoe modification in the preliminary acute phase of laminitis treatment, establishing proper alignment before full weight-bearing begins. This preliminary corrective action prevents further damage and reduces the duration of elevated foot requirement.
3Reliability
If the angle of the wedge does not correspond to each horse's particular condition, then attachment is achieved, but the condition may become more severe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent customizes the wedge angle parameter based on the severity of the horse's condition and the degree of distal phalanx rotation. By adjusting this critical parameter to match individual case requirements, the treatment achieves proper mechanical alignment that reduces rather than increases stress on the laminar attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent tailors the wedge shoe characteristics to the specific local condition of each horse's hoof, creating a customized solution that addresses the particular degree of rotation and tissue damage present in each case rather than applying a uniform approach.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If wedge shoes are bandaged to the foot during the acute phase, then risk of further damage is reduced, but the bandaged shoe may slip from the hoof
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses glue as a chemical intermediary to bond the wedge shoe to the hoof, replacing mechanical bandaging. This provides more reliable and consistent attachment security during the acute phase while maintaining reduced risk of damage, as the adhesive bond does not slip or shift like bandages may.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces shear forces on the lamina, preserves laminar perfusion, and allows the hoof to reestablish normal orientation, potentially preventing chronic laminitis and promoting recovery without the need for invasive surgery, as demonstrated by improved mobility and reduced pain in treated horses.
Implementation Method 1
Administering Botulinum Toxin Type A into the flexor digitorum profundus muscle to relax the deep digital flexor tendon
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention generally relates to methods for treating the sequela of laminitis in hoofed animals. Benefits are obtained by administering to the animals to be treated injections of Botulinum Toxin in the limb to be treated. In one embodiment, about 100 Units to 600 Units of Type A Botulinum Toxin is injected in multiple injections into the flexor digitorum profundus muscle of an animal's affected limb.