Use of locking compression plates in ulnar fractures of 18 horses.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the outcome, clinical findings, and complications associated with the use of the locking compression plate (LCP) for various types of ulnar fractures in horses.


METHODS
Retrospective case series.


METHODS
Client owned horses (n = 18).


METHODS
Medical records, radiographs, and follow-up for horses having an ulnar fracture repaired using at least 1 LCP were reviewed. Fifteen of 18 horses had fractures of the ulna only, and 3 horses had fractures of the ulna and proximal radius.


RESULTS
All 18 horses were discharged from the hospital. Complications occurred in 5 horses; incisional infection (n = 4, 22%), implant-associated infection (n = 2, 11%), and colic (n = 1, 6%). Follow-up was available for all horses at a range of 13-120 months and 15 horses (83%) were sound for their intended purpose and 3 horses (17%) were euthanatized. One horse was euthanatized for complications associated with original injury and surgery.


CONCLUSIONS
The LCP is a viable method of internal fixation for various types of ulnar fractures, with most horses in this series returning to soundness.
Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.
Carrie C
CC
Jacobs
Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.
David G
DG
Levine
Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.
Dean W
DW
Richardson
D000818:Animals; D001860:Bone Plates / Q000662:veterinary*; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000662:veterinary; D006736:Horses / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008499:Medical Records; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013530:Surgical Wound Infection / Q000662:veterinary; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014458:Ulna Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*