Case of the Month- “Ruby”
History:
Fractured front leg 2 ½ weeks ago while running in yard.Surgery was performed at another veterinary clinic to repair fracture.Initially “Ruby” did very well but 4 days prior to being examined she stopped bearing weight on this leg.
Physical Exam:
There was a seroma(fluid filled swelling) in the location of the fracture.Callus(new bone formation) was palpated at the fracture site.Fracture was unstable(moveable).Remained of the exam was normal.Radiograph:
The fracture had collapsed on itself and was not healing.Diagnosis:
Nonunion of fracture.Treatment:
“Ruby” was taken to surgery to have an external skeletal fixator applied. A series of pins were inserted through the bone segments above and below the fracture and then connected to each other to stabilize the fracture. ***Picture of Fixator*****Cage rest only to allow for healing.Pain medications were given to keep “Ruby” comfortable.Long term antibiotics to prevent infection.Outcome:
“Ruby” was examined on a regular basis to evaluate healing.After several months, the fixator was removed and “Ruby” is doing well.
Case of the Month
1 ½ years old
Doberman PinscherSpayed Female
