Retrospective analysis of 29 fractures of the olecranon process of the equine ulna.

This study analyzes data from 29 horses with fractures in their olecranon process of the ulna, a bone in the elbow, treated at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine from 1973 to 1983. The researchers sought to assess the prognosis for different types of fractures, determine which pre-surgery factors impacted prognosis, and evaluate the effectiveness of various treatment methods.

Fracture Classifications

• The fractures were categorized by severity into four types: Type-1 fractures involved the physeal plate (a growing area in the bones of young animals); Type-2 fractures were located at the level of the anconeal notch, the narrowest cross-section of the ulna; Type-3 fractures affected the proximal (near to the center of the body) part of the bone but did not involve the elbow joint; and Type-4 fractures were severely splintered or shattered (comminuted).

Treatment Methods

• Three treatment methods were used. Open reduction and internal fixation involved repositioning the fractured bones and using a metal plate to hold them in place until they heal – this treatment method had a success rate of 68%. Elbow to ground splinting involved immobilizing the leg from elbow to hoof and restricting movement with stall rest – this method was useful for nonarticular (not involving a joint) and nondisplaced fractures. The third method, stall rest alone, resulted in 28% of the horses being sound enough for pasture, but none of them returned to active performance.

Conclusions

• Based on the findings, nonarticular/nondisplaced fractures are suitable for non-surgical treatment using a full-limb splint, stall rest, and periodic reevaluation. The efficacy of the treatment method seemed to depend on the type and severity of the fracture, and the ability of the horse to go back to excellent function was highest in cases where the treatment was successful.