My best friend ever, a 10-year old lab mix with synovial myoxoma in her front paw, was diagnosed earlier this year.  Her regular vet said that amputation was the only realistic treatment because if excised, it would most likely grow back.  The good thing about synovial myoxoma, I am told, is that it doesn't generally metastasize so prognosis is generally good.  After learning about limb-sparing with prosthesis, I wanted to pursue that hoping that would give her a better quality of life (causing less stress on her other limbs as he is an older dog).  X-rays and ultrasound and general well-check tests were done to rule out any underlying medical condition (all fine), I consulted with a veterinarian surgeon who recommended a CT scan to determine whether it might be possible to excise the tumor to give her temporary relief without having to amputate.  The CT scan showed the tumor too invasive to be removed without damaging her mobility. 

While I have been waiting to get all these opinions and test results, she has been managed reasonably well on a regimen of gabapentin, tramadol and rimadyl.  She eats, wants to play a little and loves to go on walks and generally is her usual cheerful self except for the obvious discomfort of a swollen paw.  Some days it seems to bother her more and some days less.  She is scheduled for examination and consultation with planned limb-sparing surgery early next month at Colorado State, with a prosthesis to be fitted two weeks after surgery.

While I wait, I continue to debate whether I am making the right decision for her.  I have been keeping her medicated, taking her to new places (which she loves) to explore at whatever pace she chooses, showering her with love and treats, and generally trying to reward her for being such an awesome friend to me and our family.   I know many pets adapt well to three legs but I'd like to keep her on four if possible.  But I am worried about putting her through needless pain of another surgery if she doesn't adapt to the prosthesis.  X-rays show she has the joints of a much younger dog and she is currently healthy and in good shape so I'm second, third and fourth guessing myself on this decision.

I would love to hear from anyone who has had a positive or negative experience with limb sparing surgery or how best to weigh the pros and cons of making this incredibly difficult decision.  This girl has my whole heart and I want to do right by her!