[Treatment of multiple metacarpal (tarsal) fractures using a brace in 2 foals and a calf].

The research article focuses on the successful treatment of multiple fractures in the carpus (wrist) and tarsus (ankle) of two young horses and a calf using a brace for external fixation.

Overview of the Procedure

This procedure was done through the following steps:

• The researchers conducted the treatment on two young horses (foals) and a calf.
• They administered a brace to achieve external fixation of multiple fractures on the carpus or tarsus.
• The fracture location varied among the animals; the carpus being equivalent to the human wrist and the tarsus to the human ankle.

Results of the Treatment

• The results were positive, with the treatment leading to good immobilization, which means the broken bones were securely held in place to heal.
• Beyond immobilization, the researchers found that the treatment also allowed for full loading of the affected leg. This means that the animals could put their full weight on the leg without it causing pain or further damage.

Implications of the Research

• This research suggests that the use of a brace for external fixation could be a successful and effective treatment for similar injuries in other animals.
• It opens the door to potential future investigations regarding the use of external brace in a wider variety of fractures and in different animal species.