Fractures or Broken Bones - Dogs and Cats

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Radial Fracture Surgery Photos

What are fractures?

Fractures are one of the most common accidental injuries that happen to dogs and cats. Generally they occur secondary to being hit by a car, stepped on, or dropped. Some fractures can occur because the pet is genetically predisposed to it: for example, some lines of cocker spaniels can be predisposed to fractures of the elbow.

How do you fix a broken bone? Do you put a cast on it?

Because of the way our pets are shaped, how they walk, and how they react to things, (such as splints), most fractures require surgery to repair. Each fracture is different, and therefore, will require a unique repair be planned for it. The type of repair will depend on which bone is broken, how severe the break is, and where on the bone the fracture is. For example, a break at the end of the bone will be repaired differently than one in the middle of the bone. It is also important to know how many pieces the bone is in.

The main types of surgical repair are plates, external fixators (K-E) and interlocking nails. Pins, wires and screws may also be used separately. Detailed pictures of individual examples may be found on this web site by clicking on the individual name links. Below are some radiograph pictures (X-Rays) that show before and after shots of these repairs.

Larger pictures may be seen by clicking on the pictures

4A & 4B
The plate is used for breaks in the shaft of the bone where the bone is in 2 pieces and interlocks well. Transverse fractures (straight across) are one example. Typically radius and ulnar fractures are repaired this way. Pelvic fractures are also generally plated. A plate made of surgical steel is fit to the bone crossing the fracture. It is affixed to the bone by surgical steel screws. In many cases this plate remains in the pet forever.

2A & 2B
The K-E (external fixator) is used for bones that have been shattered into many pieces. This allows the bone to heal while keeping the pieces in alignment. Many fractures need this type of repair. The lower leg bones such as the radius and tibia can especially benefit from this type of repair. This appliance is actually attached on the outside of the body. The pins and bars are removed after the bone heals fully.

3A & 3B
The interlocking nail is a larger steel pin that has screw holes in it. It is placed on the inside of the bone and secured with screws through the bone. This is completely inside the leg, so it is usually left in the pet. Many bones can be repaired this way.

1A & 1B
Other fractures such as fractures that involve a joint are often repaired with a combination of pins and screws. These are used to hold the pieces in place and restore function to the joint.

Will my pet be crippled?

The outlook for return to full use of the leg is generally good. Exceptions tend to involve the joints. If a joint surface has been broken, arthritis is inevitable. However, repair will minimize the arthritis and restore nearly full use of the leg in many cases. If your pet breaks a bone, they should be seen by a veterinarian immediately so that a splint can be applied to reduce swelling until surgery can safely be preformed. After surgery there will be restrictions on activity and rechecks will be needed to follow the pet through to a full recovery. We will discuss these limitations based on each individual case as needed. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

Radial Fracture Surgery Photos

If you would like to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to contact us at 309-685-4707 We would be happy to discuss your questions or concerns.

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