Use of locking compression plates in ulnar fractures of 18 horses*. Issue 2 (February 2017) - Jacobs, Carrie C.
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.