Summary
This study describes the history, signalment, fracture configuration (classified according
to Salter and Harris = SH), methods of treatment and outcome of 16 cattle suffering from a physeal
fracture of the metacarpus or metatarsus. For the purpose of describing the accuracy
of fracture reduction and progress of healing, as defined by radiographs, a grading
system was developed and is described.
Thirteen animals (five SH I and eight SH II) were treated by means of a full-limb
cast, one by a modified walking-cast (SH III) and two by open reduction and internal
fixation (ORIF) (one open SH II and one SH III). Long-term follow-up evaluation revealed
limb angulation, or shortening of the affected bone in seven animals (44%). Two or
more signs of a fracture disease were found in 11 out of 13 cases (85%) treated by
means of a full-limb cast. The long-term result of the SH III fracture treated by
means of a modified walking-cast was satisfactory. A significant negative correlation
was found between the body weight of the animals and the time that elapsed from trauma
to treatment respectively, and the long-term result. However, correlation was not
found between the quality of fracture reduction and the long-term result.
Sixteen physeal fractures of the metacarpus and metatarsus in cattle were evaluated
retrospectively using a new radiographic scoring system. A significant negative correlation
was found between the body weight of the animals and the time that elapsed from trauma
to treatment respectively, and the longterm result. A correlation was not found between
the quality of the fracture reduction and the long-term result.
Keywords
Cattle - metacarpus - metatarsus - physeal fracture - radiographic scoring system
