Surgical management of complete diaphyseal third metacarpal and metatarsal bone fractures: clinical outcome in 10 mature horses and 11 foals.

Authors: Bischofberger A S, Fürst A, Auer J, Lischer C

Journal: Equine veterinary journal

DOI: 10.2746/042516409x389388 PubMed: 19642407Log in to save

Summary

# Surgical repair of third metacarpal and metatarsal fractures in horses presents significant technical challenges, with healing complications remaining a persistent clinical concern; this retrospective analysis of 21 cases (10 mature horses and 11 foals) sought to identify factors influencing surgical outcomes and refine management protocols. The surgical techniques employed and complication rates were documented across both age groups, with particular attention to fracture configuration, fixation methods, and post-operative progression. Results demonstrated variable success rates between mature horses and foals, with specific complications including implant failure, non-union, and infection documented in the cohort. These findings underscore the importance of tailoring fixation strategies to individual fracture characteristics and age-related bone healing capacity—mature horses and foals present markedly different biomechanical and physiological demands during repair. For practitioners involved in the long-term management of these cases, including farriers monitoring limb loading tolerance and physiotherapists designing rehabilitation protocols, understanding the typical complications and healing trajectory is essential for optimising recovery and recognising when intervention may be required.

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Practical Takeaways

•Fractures of the third metacarpal and metatarsal bones require surgical intervention but carry risk of complications; surgeon and owner should discuss realistic outcomes beforehand
•Age may be a factor in healing success — outcomes differed between foals and mature horses, so prognosis should be individualized
•Long bone fracture repair in horses demands meticulous surgical technique and careful post-operative management to maximize success rates

Key Findings

•Surgical osteosynthesis of McIII and MtIII diaphyseal fractures in horses presents significant technical challenges
•Complications following surgical repair of long bone fractures in horses are common
•Study evaluated outcomes in 10 mature horses and 11 foals with complete diaphyseal third metacarpal or metatarsal fractures

Conditions Studied

complete diaphyseal third metacarpal bone fracturescomplete diaphyseal third metatarsal bone fractures

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