Use of dynamic compression plates for treatment of tibial diaphyseal fractures in foals: nine cases (1980-1987).

The research article reviews a study of nine young foals who were treated for fractures of the tibial diaphysis using dynamic compression plates. The study analyzes different surgical approaches, outcomes, complications, and the success of the treatment technique.

Methodology

• The researchers reviewed the medical records of nine foals that were less than four months old and had suffered fractures of the tibial diaphysis, a part of their lower leg bones.
• These fractures were treated using open reduction, a method that involves surgically realigning the bones. This procedure was carried out in three different ways, but the cranial approach, or from the front, was preferred and most commonly used.
• Two dynamic compression plates were used as implants in all the foals except for the first one. Dynamic compression plates are metallic plates that are screwed to the bone on either side of the fracture to maintain alignment and stability.

Approach and Techniques

• The technique of plate luting, which involves filling the gap between the bone and the plate with a substance such as cement or wax to improve implant stability, was used in seven out of the nine cases.
• This method seemed to enhance the ability of the implants to resist failure which leads to a better outcome of the surgery.

Results and Complications

• The study found several complications following surgery: in three cases, there was partial or complete failure of the fracture fixation; two experienced osteomyelitis, a bone infection; two showed angular limb deformity; three had minor surgical wound dehiscence, or reopening; and four had mild extensor deficits of the injured limb, meaning they had difficulty extending their leg.
• One foal had to be euthanized due to a complete loss of fracture fixation. The remaining foals were discharged between 10 to 295 days after surgery.
• The plates were removed from seven foals afterwards.

Follow-up and Conclusion

• Follow-up information was gathered for a period of six to 36 months after the animals were discharged. Overall, the results were rated as excellent for six foals and good to fair for the remaining two.
• Despite the complications, this method proved to be a generally effective treatment for tibial diaphyseal fractures in foals, with most showing significant improvement following the surgery.