Use of locking compression plates in ulnar fractures of 18 horses*. Issue 2 (February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jacobs, Carrie C.; Levine, David G.; Richardson, Dean W.
• Is Part Of: Veterinary surgery. Volume 46:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 242
• Page End: 248
• Publication Date: 2017-02
• Subjects: Veterinary surgery -- Periodicals; Veterinary Medicine -- Periodicals; Surgery -- Periodicals; Societies, Medical -- Periodicals; 636.0897
• DOI: 10.1111/vsu.12607
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0161-3499

Abstract

Abstract: Objectives: 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. Study Design: Retrospective case series. Sample Population: 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.