Surgical Repair of an Olecranon Fracture in a Horse

Abstract

Olecranon fractures are frequently encountered in horses especially in foals. External trauma due to kicks or falls is the most common cause of the fracture. Treatment modalities of olecranon fractures including prolonged stall rest and surgical reconstruction of the different types of fractures have been proposed with different outcomes. This article describes a successful surgical reconstruction of an olecranon fracture in an adult horse repaired with a dynamic compression plate. The horse regained complete soundness and performed his job normally for additional 7 years. Information regarding the history, clinical signs, diagnosis, surgical treatment and long-term prognosis is discussed and compared with the current literature. Key words: Olecranon, ulna, osteosynthesis, fracture, horse ResumoAs fraturas de olécrano ocorrem freqüentemente em eqüinos, especialmente em potros jovens. A causa mais comum da fratura relaciona-se ao trauma externo originado, principalmente, por coices ou quedas. Modalidades distintas de tratamento incluindo o repouso prolongado ou a reparação cirúrgica dos variados tipos de fratura têm sido executadas com diferentes resultados. Este trabalho tem por objetivo a descrição de um caso de fratura de olécrano em um eqüino adulto reparada cirurgicamente por meio de placa e parafusos ortopédicos. O animal apresentou recuperação plena da função locomotora desempenhando normalmente suas funções por mais 7 anos. Informações relativas ao histórico, sinais clínicos, diagnóstico, tratamento cirúrgico e prognóstico são discutidas e comparadas com a literatura.

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“…Fractures involving the elbow joint are not easy to repair in horses (Jalim et al 2009). In cases of incomplete or nondisplaced fractures, conservative therapy might be rewarding (Dearo et al 2010). The use of splints or Robert Jones bandages is still controversial as it may results in undue damage to local soft tissues of the area due to a pendulum effect (Dearo et al 2010).…”

“…In cases of incomplete or nondisplaced fractures, conservative therapy might be rewarding (Dearo et al 2010). The use of splints or Robert Jones bandages is still controversial as it may results in undue damage to local soft tissues of the area due to a pendulum effect (Dearo et al 2010). Nonetheless, many olecranon fractures displace under the influence of the triceps muscle and require stronger, more stable form of internal fixation for optimum results (Auer 2006).…”