Use of locking compression plates in ulnar fractures of 18 horses.

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.