Use of antibiotic-impregnated polymethyl methacrylate for treatment of an open radial fracture in a horse.

The research article primarily discusses the successful treatment of an open radial fracture in a horse using antibiotic-impregnated polymethyl methacrylate implants. The fracture not only healed but the horse also displayed only a mild lameness 90 days post-treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment Method

• The major focus of the case-treated in this research was an open, contaminated, comminuted fracture of the radius in an adult horse weighing 500-kg.
• To handle the infection in the fractured limb, antibiotic-impregnated polymethyl methacrylate implants were used.
• Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is a synthetic resin known for its durability, strength, and biocompatibility, making it a suitable material for medical implants.
• The antibiotic-impregnated PMMA releases antibiotics over time in order to manage and gradually eliminate the infection.

Post-Treatment Actions and Results

• In the later stages of the treatment, lag screws were introduced across the fracture. The purpose of these screws was to stimulate compression and promote healing in the fractured area.
• The fracture eventually healed and the horse was released to its owners in a substantially improved condition.

Follow-Up Observations

• The antibiotic-impregnated polymethyl methacrylate implants were not removed post-treatment from the affected horse.
• It was observed that 90 days after the treatment, the horse exhibited mild lameness. The presence of mild lameness suggested a significant improvement in the horse’s mobility and overall health post-treatment.