Principles of Fracture Management in the Dog and Cat

Fractures are a common occurrence in dogs and cats, and they can be caused by a variety of factors, such as trauma, accidents, and falls. Fractures can be classified based on their location, type, and severity. The principles of fracture management are the same for both dogs and cats, and they involve the following steps:

• Assessment and stabilization
• Reduction and immobilization
• Treatment and rehabilitation

Assessment and Stabilization

The first step in fracture management is to assess the fracture and stabilize the patient. This involves determining the type and severity of the fracture, as well as any associated injuries. The patient may need to be sedated or anesthetized for this procedure. Once the fracture has been assessed, the patient may need to be stabilized using a splint or cast to prevent further movement and damage to the injured area.

AO Principles of Fracture Management in the Dog and Cat

by Ann L. Johnson

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Reduction and Immobilization

The next step is to reduce the fracture and immobilize the injured area. Reduction involves repositioning the fractured bones so that they are in their normal alignment. This may require the use of a variety of techniques, such as closed reduction (performed without surgery) or open reduction (performed with surgery). Once the fracture has been reduced, it must be immobilized to prevent further movement and allow the bones to heal properly. Immobilization can be achieved using a variety of methods, such as splinting, casting, or external fixation.

Treatment and Rehabilitation

The final step in fracture management is treatment and rehabilitation. Treatment may involve administering pain medication, antibiotics, and other medications to prevent infection and promote healing. Rehabilitation may involve physical therapy, massage, and other exercises to help the patient regain range of motion and strength in the injured area.

Fracture Classification

Fractures can be classified based on a variety of factors, including their location, type, and severity. The most common classification system is the AO/OTA classification system, which is based on the location and severity of the fracture.

Location-based classification: Fractures can be classified based on their location in the bone. For example, a fracture of the femur (thigh bone) would be classified as a femoral fracture.

Type-based classification: Fractures can also be classified based on their type. The most common types of fractures include:

• Simple fractures: These fractures are characterized by a clean break in the bone with no displacement of the bone fragments.
• Comminuted fractures: These fractures are characterized by multiple fractures in the same bone.
• Spiral fractures: These fractures are characterized by a twisting motion that causes the bone to break in a spiral pattern.
• Greenstick fractures: These fractures are characterized by a break in the bone that does not completely penetrate the bone.

Severity-based classification: Fractures can also be classified based on their severity. The most common severity-based classification system is the Gustilo-Anderson classification system, which is based on the amount of soft tissue damage associated with the fracture.

Fracture Healing

The healing process of a fracture can be divided into three stages:

• Inflammatory stage: This stage begins immediately after the fracture occurs and lasts for several days. During this stage, the body releases inflammatory mediators that cause swelling, pain, and redness at the fracture site.
• Reparative stage: This stage begins about one week after the fracture occurs and lasts for several weeks. During this stage, the body begins to form new bone tissue to bridge the gap between the fractured bones.
• Remodeling stage: This stage begins about six weeks after the fracture occurs and can last for several months. During this stage, the body remodels the new bone tissue to make it stronger and more durable.

Treatment Options

The treatment options for a fracture will depend on the location, type, and severity of the fracture. Treatment options may include:

• Closed reduction and casting: This is the most common treatment option for simple fractures. Closed reduction involves repositioning the fractured bones without surgery. Casting is then used to immobilize the injured area and allow the bones to heal.
• Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF): This treatment option is used for more severe fractures. ORIF involves surgically opening the fracture site and using screws, plates, or wires to hold the bones in place.
• External fixation: This treatment option is used for fractures that cannot be treated with closed reduction and casting or ORIF. External fixation involves using a device that is attached to the outside of the body to hold the bones in place.

Fracture management in dogs and cats is a complex and challenging field. However, with the proper care and treatment, most fractures can be healed successfully. If you suspect that your dog or cat has a fracture, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately.

AO Principles of Fracture Management in the Dog and Cat

by Ann L. Johnson

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6681 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	852 pages
Item Weight	:	3.52 ounces

FREE