Fracture management in growing animals

Abstract

There are important differences to consider when fractures are encountered in growing animals, particularly those under six months of age, rather than in mature animals. Physeal fractures are common and must be diagnosed promptly if satisfactory results following reduction and stabilisation are to be achieved. When physeal fractures are encountered, closed reduction and stabilisation using Kirschner wires applied in various configurations is generally recommended. Careful adherence to the principles of physeal fracture repair will reduce the risks of postoperative complications, including the development of growth deformity. Treatment of diaphyseal fractures in juvenile patients also differs to that in the mature animal. External coaptation may lead to serious complications if inappropriately applied or managed, and must be monitored closely if used. While intramedullary pins are often appropriate in skeletally immature patients, caution is recommended when considering use in the femur. Elastic plate osteosynthesis was developed specifically for use in growing animals and may offer an advantage, particularly for management of femoral fractures. For both physeal and diaphyseal fractures, minimally invasive techniques may be beneficial in skeletally immature patients where case presentation allows.