Hidden Danger in Fur: Unveiling Rubber Band Syndrome in Dogs

Navigating Rubber Band Syndrome in Dogs: A Report of Three Cases

Puli Vishnu Vardhan Reddy, Pushkin Raj, Shiju Simon, Ramasamy Sindhu, Thenmozhi Ratnam

Background
Rubber band syndrome (RBS) is an underrecognized condition in dogs, often manifesting as chronic lameness and non-healing wounds due to forgotten circumferential foreign bodies. Common in regions with cultural use of bands or threads on limbs, the syndrome can lead to tissue damage from prolonged constriction. This case series documents the clinical, radiologic, and surgical findings in three canine cases of RBS.

Methods
Three dogs (Golden Retriever, Shih Tzu, Spitz) presenting with chronic weight-bearing lameness and circumferential limb wounds underwent clinical, radiographic, and ultrasonographic evaluations. All were previously treated at other clinics without resolution. Surgical exploration under anesthesia was conducted to remove the foreign bodies. Preoperative and postoperative care included antibiotics, analgesics, and wound management.

Results
In all three cases, rubber bands were identified as the constricting foreign bodies, deeply embedded and causing chronic wounds with sinus tracts. Radiographs showed osteolysis and bone remodeling; ultrasonography detected linear, hyperechoic structures suggestive of foreign bodies. Post-surgical recovery was uneventful, with complete healing observed within 10–18 days.

Limitations
The small sample size and case report design limit broader applicability. Additionally, while ultrasonography proved useful, advanced imaging such as CT was not employed. The diagnosis depended heavily on clinician suspicion due to non-specific symptoms and hidden foreign bodies.

Conclusions
Rubber band syndrome in dogs is a diagnostic challenge, particularly in breeds with dense fur. Early suspicion based on characteristic circumferential wounds and chronicity is key. Radiographic and ultrasonographic features aid in diagnosis. Surgical removal of the constricting material results in rapid recovery, emphasizing the importance of thorough clinical assessment in unresolved limb lameness cases.

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