Fractures of the radius and ulna

Abstract

Fractures of the radius and ulna are commonly encountered in dogs and cats and they are often stated to be simple to repair. While the surgical approaches to both the radius and ulna are certainly easier than to the proximal limb, the paired bone system predisposes individuals with these injuries to a unique set of complications. Skeletally immature animals are at risk for development of angular limb deformity following these injuries and frequent monitoring with early investigation and intervention where necessary is advised. In any dog, and particularly cats, with antebrachial fractures, every effort must be made to maintain the natural motion that occurs between the radius and ulna; failure to do so may precipitate implant failure and/or lead to impaired quality of life. Toy-breed dogs suffer fractures of the radius and ulna frequently and pose a unique challenge for management, with high complication rates associated with inappropriate methods of stabilisation such as external coaptation. This article details the types of antebrachial fracture that are commonly encountered and provides guidance on how to choose between the various types of stabilisation available, with the aim being to minimise complications and improve prognoses for these patients.