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Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 2002; 15(04): 233-239
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1632745
Clinical Communication
Schattauer GmbH

Management of comminuted supracondylar fractures of the humerus with closed reduction and a hybrid type Ml external fixator

S. M. Fearnside
1   West Chermside Veterinary Specialist and Referral Centre, Stafford Heights, Queensland, Australia
,
R. D. Eaton-Wells
1   West Chermside Veterinary Specialist and Referral Centre, Stafford Heights, Queensland, Australia
,
R. A. S. Mitchell
1   West Chermside Veterinary Specialist and Referral Centre, Stafford Heights, Queensland, Australia
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Received 11 March 2002

Accepted 05 June 2002

Publication Date:
08 February 2018 (online)

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Summary

Closed reduction and a hybrid type I-II external skeletal fixator (ESF) were utilised for the repair of comminuted supracondylar humeral fractures in seven dogs and two cats. The modified design of the ESF afforded significant flexibility in the management of these fractures, with closed reduction allowing the principles of biological osteosynthesis to be applied. Successful bone healing was achieved in eight cases. During implant removal, refracture occurred in one case. In comminuted supracondylar fractures of the humerus, where accurate fragment reduction is not feasible or where reconstruction may lead to further soft tissue damage and compromised blood supply to the bony fragments, the construct appeared to offer advantages, both mechanically and biologically, over other external fixator designs or bone plating. The design was used successfully in both large and small dog breeds and cats. The aim of this study is to report on the management and outcomes of comminuted supracondylar fractures managed using closed reduction and a hybrid type I-II ESF.

Keywords

Humerus - supracondylar fractures - closed reduction - external fixators
 

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