Treatment and management of fractures

Conservative management

(Minimally displaced fractures in small breeds or financial cases)

External coaptation (full-limb cast/splint) - Crate rest 6-8 weeks - Weekly checks, cast changes to prevent risk of pressure sores

Malalignment - delayed union/non-union

Plate and screw fixation (DCP, LCP or locking plate)

Rigid anatomical reconstruction, good outcomes, earlier controlled limb

Strong, predictable healing,

expensive, surgical expertise

Intramedullary pin & cerclage wires

Long oblique fractures, less expensive, adequate stability. Effective for oblique fractures

IM pins alone provide poor rotational stability; cerclage use must be appropriate

External Skeletal Fixation (ESF)

Type Ia or II commonly used in tibial fractures - useful in high energy or contaminated fractures - adjustable without additional surgery

Minimally invasive

Requires regular pin-site management