Reptile Orthopedic Medicine and Surgery

Pathology involving the skeletal system of reptiles is commonly diagnosed by veterinarians. Traumatic injuries and structural changes to bone associated with metabolic diseases account for more than 90% of reptilian orthopedics cases. This article focuses on orthopedic conditions commonly diagnosed and treated in veterinary practice. Initial management of reptile orthopedic disease is detailed along with the importance of revealing any predisposing factors to the common disease presentations mentioned. Underlying concurrent disease conditions, environmental and nutritional inadequacies, and treatment options for orthopedic disease are reviewed along with reference to the key differences that apply to reptiles.