Most bone fractures in dogs and cats are trauma-related. In isolated instances, metabolic diseases, such as nutritional osteodystrophy and bone cancers, can also be underlying causes. A fracture will present itself as a non-weight-bearing lameness, with noticeable swelling and pain in the region of the affected bone. Crepitus, or the grinding feel made by broken ends of bone rubbing together, and an anatomical distortion of the site, such as a shortening of an affected limb, might be seen as well.
Diagnosis of a fracture is based on physical exam findings and radiographic X rays. Treatment depends on the type of fracture and the region involved, and it consists of any combination of cage rest, bandaging or splinting, and surgery to reduce and stabilize the fracture.
Minor fractures involving the pelvis will often heal nicely with cage rest alone, whereas displaced fractures of one or more limbs might require surgical fixation using orthopedic pins, screws, and/or bone plates. In general, uncomplicated fractures usually heal quite readily in dogs and cats.
Diagnosis of a fracture is based on physical exam findings and radiographic X rays. Treatment depends on the type of fracture and the region involved, and it consists of any combination of cage rest, bandaging or splinting, and surgery to reduce and stabilize the fracture.
Minor fractures involving the pelvis will often heal nicely with cage rest alone, whereas displaced fractures of one or more limbs might require surgical fixation using orthopedic pins, screws, and/or bone plates. In general, uncomplicated fractures usually heal quite readily in dogs and cats.
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