Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 2011; 24(01): 57-61
DOI: 10.3415/VCOT-10-02-0020
Clinical Communication
Schattauer GmbH

Treatment of type 2 and 4 olecranon fractures with locking compression plate osteosynthesis in horses: A prospective study (2002–2008)

M. Jackson
1   University of Zurich, Equine Surgery, Zurich, Switzerland
,
M. Kummer
1   University of Zurich, Equine Surgery, Zurich, Switzerland
,
J. Auer
1   University of Zurich, Equine Surgery, Zurich, Switzerland
,
R. Hagen
2   University of Zurich, Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Zurich, Switzerland
,
A. Fuerst
1   University of Zurich, Equine Surgery, Zurich, Switzerland
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Received: 04 February 2010

Accepted: 05 September 2010

Publication Date:
19 December 2017 (online)

Summary

This prospective study describes a series of 18 olecranon fractures in 16 horses that were treated with locking compression plates (LCP). Twelve of the 18 fractures were simple (type 2), whereas six were comminuted (type 4). Six fractures were open and 12 were closed. Each horse underwent LCP osteosynthesis consisting of open reduction and application of one or two LCP. Complete fracture healing was achieved in 13 horses. Three horses had to be euthanatized: two because of severe infection and one because of a comminuted radial fracture 11 days after fixation of the olecranon fracture. Complications encountered after discharge of the horses from the Equine Hospital at the Vetsuisse Faculty (University of Zurich) included implant infection (n = 2) and lameness (n = 3), which were successfully treated with implant removal. Despite being easier to use, LCP osteosynthesis resulted in a clinical outcome similar to DCP osteosynthesis.

 
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