Treatment of a periarticular tibial fracture in a foal with a hybrid external fixator.
Authors: De Godoy Roberta Ferro, Filgueiras Richard R, Gontijo Lílian A, Ximenes Fábio Henrique Bezerra, De Gouvêa Liana Villela, Da Silva Pereira Cristiane, Almeida Ricardo M, Leite Ceci Ribeiro, Neto Antônio Raphael T, Borges José Renato Junqueira
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Treatment of Periarticular Tibial Fractures in Foals Using Hybrid External Fixation Proximal tibial fractures in foals present a significant orthopaedic challenge, particularly Salter-Harris type II injuries that compromise the growth plate and articular surface. This case report documents the successful stabilisation of such a fracture in a 5-month-old foal using a hybrid external fixator (HEF)—a construct combining percutaneous wires and half-rings with Schanz pins and half-threaded connecting rods—following open surgical reduction. Weight bearing improved immediately post-operatively, and radiographic evidence of fracture healing permitted removal of the fixation device at 60 days. The technique's non-invasive approach to the fracture site, combined with the ability to achieve early functional loading whilst maintaining precise reduction of this articular injury, positions hybrid external fixation as a viable alternative to traditional plate fixation in young stock. Given the critical importance of preserving limb function and minimising complications during the remaining growth period, this fixation method warrants consideration in your surgical approach to proximal tibial fractures in foals, particularly where periarticular involvement would make traditional internal fixation technically demanding or potentially compromise future joint health.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Hybrid external fixators are a viable surgical option for managing proximal tibial Salter-Harris type II fractures in young foals
- •Early weight bearing post-operatively may be possible with this fixation method, potentially benefiting rehabilitation
- •Consider HEF as an alternative stabilization technique when other fixation methods may be contraindicated or unavailable
Key Findings
- •A hybrid external fixator successfully stabilized a proximal tibial Salter-Harris type II fracture in a 5-month-old foal
- •The foal demonstrated relatively good weight bearing immediately after surgery
- •Radiographic evidence of fracture healing was confirmed by 60 days post-surgery