Photo courtesy of Hot Bows
This is the second in a series of occasional articles addressing medical problems of small-breed dogs.
Toy breed dogs are at risk of fracturing one of their front legs when they run, jump, or play. It is not uncommon for them to jump out of an owner’s arms when startled, which can result in a fracture. I have even had the personal experience of a Yorkshire terrier going outside in a controlled and confined grassy area, returning 10 minutes later limping from a fracture of the wrist.
The propensity for these bones to fracture after only minimal trauma is related to anatomical differences with bone formation and blood supply compared with larger dogs. At the least, this can cause a delay in the healing process. This is called a delayed union. All too commonly, if the fracture is not cared for properly, the leg might never heal and could need amputation. This is called a nonunion.
The typical location for this fracture to occur is in the wrist area. Anatomically speaking, this is called the distal radius, or ulna. This radiograph of a normal small breed dog shows the usual location for this fracture.
Typical fracture of the distal radius and ulna
In larger dogs, a splint would suffice in many cases to fix the fracture. It might need to be on from four to eight weeks. The splints are usually made of fiberglass with extensive cotton insulation. The fiberglass provides rigidity for healing and a light weight for ambulation. The cotton provides comfort and preserves the blood supply, which is crucial to healing.
A larger-breed dog’s stronger bones, in comparison.
In small-breed dogs a plate is needed to prevent a delayed union or nonunion. This plate is put in surgically, usually by a specialist or a veterinarian with extensive orthopedic experience. It requires special equipment and expertise.
Repair with a bone plate.
It is common for owners to take immediate costs into consideration when deciding on a splint versus a plate. This is one of those diseases with which owners should not be penny wise and pound foolish.
Splint put on after surgery for additional support and comfort.
For more information, please visit this forearm fracture link on our website.