Treatment of radial fractures in adult horses: an analysis of 15 clinical cases.

This study analyzes fifteen cases of radial fractures in adult horses to scrutinize techniques used in treatment and to propose suggestions for future management of such cases. Despite various strategies utilized, only two of the fifteen horses fully recovered and returned to their previous activities, signaling a need for improvements in treatment approaches.

Case Analysis

• The study discusses fifteen cases of radial fractures in adult horses, all of which weighed more than 300 kg. These cases include instances where horses were euthanized due to a poor prognosis or high treatment expenses. The treatment methods varied across the cases.
• Four horses were put down immediately due to the poor prognosis and the expense of internal fixation, a surgical method used to stabilize fractured bones.
• Two horses were treated with a cast application but were euthanized after five days and five weeks, respectively. This indicates that the cast application was not successful in these instances.
• Internal fixation was attempted in nine horses, but only two fully recovered and resumed their previous activities, suggesting that this method was not always effective.

Treatment Techniques and Recommendations

• The study carefully scrutinizes the internal fixation techniques used in nine horses and provides suggestions for the optimal treatment of radial fractures in future cases.
• In eight of these cases, two plates were applied for the fixation. The locations of these plates included the lateral or medial and the cranial segments of the fractured bone.
• The researchers recommend several novel adjustments to the treatment strategy including the use of ASIF 5.5 mm cortical bone screws utilizing the total width or thickness of the bone, application of the dynamic condylar screw with its plate in distal or proximal fractures for more support, incorporation of a cancellous bone graft to the fracture, and potential table recovery to prevent breakdown during the fixation process recovery.

Significance and Implication of Findings

• The authors emphasize the importance of bone plates application over the total length of the bone for effective treatment.
• It is indicated that only two out of the fifteen horses survived and fully recovered, which underscores the inherent difficulties and complexities involved with the treatment of radial fractures in adult horses.
• The findings of this study indicate a pressing need for improved and customized treatment strategies for radial fractures in adult horses, as existing procedures do not yield favorable outcomes consistently.