Surgical Management of an Open Fracture of the Left Lateral Splint Bone in a ۳-Year-Old KWPN Stallion: A Case Report

Background: Acute open fracture of the left lateral splint bone in a horse. Open fractures of the lateral splint bone (Metatarsal IV) are a relatively rare injury in horses that is highly susceptible to infection, delayed union and suboptimal athletic performance. Despite this, the lateral splint bone is not considered to have a major role in weight-bearing, but provides mechanical stability to the limb and is important in transmitting forces to the distal limb. Accidents occurring during transport can cause open fractures that necessitate prompt surgical treatment. We describe here the clinical presentation, diagnostic investigation and surgical treatment of an acute open fracture of the left lateral splint bone in a ۳ year old KWPN stallion. Methods: Physical examination, and radiographic confirmation of a distal rotationally displaced fracture in a horse was followed by blood work, which was within normal limits. The animal received xylazine premedication, ketamine and diazepam induction, and was maintained on isoflurane. The open fracture site was surgically exposed without the need for an additional incision. Contaminated tissues were debrided, the deformed callus was dissected free, and the fractured bone segment was trimmed with an osteotome. Simple continuous sutures were placed and the skin was closed with nylon in a simple interrupted pattern. A pressure bandage was applied and postoperative radiographs confirmed adequate correction. Results: At the ۴۰ day post-surgical evaluation, the patient was no longer lame and the surgery site showed no pain on palpation during clinical examination. Follow up radiographs showed good healing of the lateral splint bone and confirmed successful surgery. Conclusion: This case shows that quick surgery and careful trimming of open splint bone fractures help horses heal fast and do well.

کلیدواژه ها:

Horse ، Splint Bone ، Metatarsal IV ، Open Fracture ، Lameness