Internal Fixation
This is needed following trauma to an extremity and can be done using various techniques described herein. Advanced Locking Plate System is a specialized procedure using plates that are placed over the fracture site. The plates are held in place by titanium screws and the apparatus is permanently implanted in the animal and gives them the best stability of all procedures for specific injuries. The animal stays overnight following this procedure and will go home with specialized instructions. This will all be explained during your consultation. The next option for repair is the placement of one or multiple pins and cerclage wires to secure the upper and lower portions of the break. Radiographs are used to determine the best procedure to repair the fracture. The animal is kept overnight and will go home with specific instructions – including limited exercise. Stitch removal and follow-up is needed 10-14 days following procedure.
External Fixation
This is needed following trauma to an extremity where the fracture can be immobilized using casting, splints, metal braces or specialized external bone fixatures. Radiographs are used to determine the best procedure to repair the fracture. The animal is kept overnight and will go home with specific instructions – including limited exercise. These procedures may be combined with the internal fixation to better stabilize the fracture site. The external fixation may need to be evaluated several times before it can be completely removed.
Proximal Abducting Ulnar Osteotomy
This procedure is for elbow medial compartment syndrome. This is a difficult arthropathy to manage. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and specialized radiographs. The procedure involves an osteotomy of the ulna. Then, plating is performed to unload the diseased medial compartment of the elbow. The animal stays overnight following this procedure and will go home with specialized instructions. This will all be explained during your consultation.