Fracture Repair
The surgical team at Howell Animal Hospital and Surgical Center are experienced at fracture repair. Many factors are considered before deciding on the best type of fracture repair for your pet, and our team will help guide you and provide the best recommendation based on the type of fracture as well as your pet’s age and lifestyle.
When your pet breaks a bone (“fracture”), it must be stabilized to prevent the pieces from moving to allow complete healing of the bone. Effective stabilization allows for optimal healing and function.
A bone can break in many ways, so fractures are classified into several categories:
- Incomplete: a fracture that is more like a bend in the bone; the bone may only be broken partway around the circumference of the bone; most commonly seen in young animals.
- Complete: the bone is broken through its full circumference and two or more bone fragments are created.
Complete fractures are further described based on the shape of the break:
- Transverse: the break is straight across the bone at a right angle to the length of the bone
- Oblique: the break is at a diagonal across the bone, creating two bone fragments with sharp points
- Comminuted: the break is in three or more pieces of varying shapes
- Open Fracture: A fracture that results in an open wound in the skin is called an open fracture; these can be created when the broken bone penetrates the skin (from the inside out) or when an object goes through the skin and breaks the bone. Open fractures are considered more emergent than closed fractures because of the risks associated with infection.
- Closed Fracture: If there is no open wound near the fracture, it is called a closed fracture.
What are the types of bones that can fracture?
Front feet: phalanges (toes; three bones in each toe); metacarpal bones (hand; four main bones);
Wrist: carpal bones
Forearm: radius and ulna
Upper arm: humerus and scapula (shoulder blade)
Back feet: phalanges (toes; same as front feet); metatarsal bones (foot; four main bones); tarsal bones (hock or ankle)
Lower leg: tibia (shin bone) and fibula
Thigh: femur
Pelvis: ilium, acetabulum (hip socket), ischium
Joints: carpus (wrist)—made up of small carpal bones and radius
Elbow—made up of radius, ulna and humerus
Shoulder—made up of humerus and scapula
Tarsus (ankle)—made up of small tarsal bones and tibia
Stifle (knee)—made up of tibia and femur
Hip—made up of femur and pelvis (acetabulum)
What Are The Signs That My Pet May Have a Fractured Bone?
- Typically, severe lameness is noted and the affected limb is obvious.
- Most pets with fractured limbs will hold up the affected limb.
- Some pets are able to bear some weight on the limb, depending on the location and nature of the break.
- Pets that have sustained major trauma, such as being struck by a motor vehicle or falling from a height, may have more than one broken limb, and may be unwilling or unable to walk.
- You may notice swelling, pain, or abnormal movement at the affected site.
- If your pet has experienced a traumatic event, please call us immediately or take your pet to the closest emergency veterinary hospital.
What to Expect Before, During and After Surgery For Fracture Repair?
Before Surgery
Before surgery, we will conduct a thorough examination of your pet, including X-rays and blood work, to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery. The procedure typically takes 2-3 hours and requires general anesthesia. We will then discuss with you the treatment options available to your pet and answer any questions you may have regarding your pet’s diagnosis. At the initial consultation, our staff will provide an estimate for you for pre-operation, the procedure, and postoperative care.
During Surgery
At Howell Animal Hospital and Surgical Center, your pet’s surgery is performed in our new, sterile surgical suites equipped with the latest monitoring and surgical equipment. We will monitor your pet during surgery and recovery and will make sure your pet is as comfortable and pain free throughout the procedure.
After Surgery
Your pet will be monitored by our veterinarians and will receive necessary antibiotics and pain medication. Additionally, patients are offered a meal when they are alert and will be walked as soon as possible for elimination. Our staff is available for you to call for updates on your pet any time during their stay with us.
Pain Management
The surgery fee includes all the medications (antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and pain) your pet needs to come home and be comfortable during their recovery.
Recovery
Most pets go home the same day of surgery. After your pet returns home, he or she will need to be confined to a small rest area for two weeks with limited walks only while on a leash. For two to six weeks, we recommend all patients go on short walks only while on a leash and continue confinement indoors when unattended. These types of measures at home will ensure a successful and speedy recovery.
Follow-up
Post-surgical appointments to check on the status of your pet are recommended. Post-op follow-up appointments include bandage removal at three to five days, suture removal at two weeks, and post-op X-rays.
Choosing the Right Veterinarian for Fracture Repair Surgery
Fracture repair surgery can be a complex procedure that requires a skilled and experienced veterinarian. At our clinic, our veterinary team has extensive experience in orthopedic surgeries, including fracture repair. We use the latest techniques and equipment to ensure a successful outcome for your furry friend.
If your pet has experienced a fracture or trauma, please call us immediately, especially if it is an open fraction. Surgical intervention as soon as possible is recommended.