Shigeo Ishijima, Veterinarian, Ishijima Animal Hospital
Introduction
Currently, canine radial ulna fractures are primarily treated by surgery or casting. Surgery allows precise repair of the fracture line, but there are risks of stress shielding due to metal fixation, impaired recovery due to deterioration of bone quality, and implant failure1,2,3). The implant that fixes the fracture is prone to healing disorders and delays because it interrupts blood flow to the bone marrow, and the more firmly it is fixed, the more impaired recovery occurs due to decreased bone density and deterioration of bone quality, with little recovery in axial apatite orientation even after 7 months2). After surgery, exercise is restricted for several months to prevent implant curvature and fracture, but it is difficult to manage an active dog to run and jump for several months. Casting is primarily the treatment of choice for fissure fractures, but fractures with dislocation are not indicated, and long-term immobilization results in muscle atrophy, decreased bone density4) and bone curvature. Mechanical stability and mechanical stimulation are necessary for fracture healing, but conventional treatment methods are incompatible.
Objective.
In 2018, our clinic developed a new treatment method for healing radial ulna fractures in dogs with a tubular cast that fits the leg three-dimensionally and completely (“3D cast”) (“3D cast treatment method”). The purpose of this study was to establish a 3D cast treatment method for radius ulna fractures in dogs, and to investigate the effect of age and surgical history on the healing period and the effect of age and surgical history in 181 cases treated with a 3D cast.