title: Use of a dynamic compression plate and a cable cerclage system for repair of a fracture of the radius in a horse.
abstract: A pregnant 9-year-old Peruvian Paso mare was evaluated because of a fracture involving the left radius. On examination, grade IV/V lameness of the left forelimb was observed; radiography of the limb revealed a longitudinal oblique displaced fracture that extended from the caudal cortex of the radial mid-diaphysis into the humeroradial joint. To minimize the development of degenerative joint disease in the humeroradial joint, repair with internal fixation was recommended. A dynamic compression plate was applied to the cranial aspect of the radius; three 2-mm stainless steel cable cerclages were positioned around the mid- and proximal diaphysis. The horse was maintained in a sling for 8 to 12 hours daily for 3 weeks after surgery. Five months after surgery, the mare had foaled without complications, and grade I/V lameness during trotting only was observed. The combination of 1 dynamic compression plate and cable cerclage may provide satisfactory stabilization of this type of fracture in small to medium-sized horses.
authors.affiliation: Equine Health Studies Program, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA.
authors.forename: David M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Bolt
authors.forename: Daniel J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Burba
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001860:Bone Plates / Q000662:veterinary*; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D006736:Horses / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D007794:Lameness, Animal / Q000209:etiology; D011247:Pregnancy; D011885:Radius Fractures / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*