Double-plate fixation of comminuted fractures of the second phalanx in horses: 10 cases (1985-1993).

The research article focuses on the technique and outcome of using double-plate fixation to treat comminuted fractures of the second phalanx in horses, concluding showed considerable promise for healing and increased probability of returning horses to function.

Methodology

The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of medical records of ten horses which suffered from comminuted fractures in the second phalanx – a condition where the bone is shattered into multiple pieces. The treatment method used on these horses was double-plate fixation.

• Two 4- to 6-hole dynamic compression plates were placed abaxially – toward the side opposite the body’s midline – to accomplish arthrodesis of the proximal interphalangeal joint (the first joint of the fingers and toes) and to fix the fracture of the second phalanx.

Results

The study found successful arthrodesis and fracture healing in all the horses treated with double-plate fixation.

• Arthrodesis, a surgical fusion of the joint, was achieved across the proximal interphalangeal joints of all the horses studied.
• The shattered second phalanx in each case was effectively fixed, leading to successful healing of the fractures.

Conclusion

Concluding from the records of the ten cases studied, the researchers found that double-plate fixation offers an excellent prognosis for horse survival post-treatment.

• Notably, all the horses in the study also proved suitable for use as broodstock – animals kept for breeding.
• This method also indicated potentially higher chances for horses to return to functional use compared to other techniques.

The article suggests that further research and clinical studies would be useful for validating these findings with a larger sample size.