A6 Axial fracture repair

Question 1

When using wire to align the fracture of a mandibular symphyseal separation, are knots or twists used, and how many are necessary to make cerclage wire stable?

Answer 1

Wire is twisted, and a minimum of 2 is necessary to make cerclage wire stable

Question 2

With symphyseal separations, what animals are they common in and what is the simplest method of repair?

Answer 2

Cats

Encircling piece of cerclage wire passed caudal to both canine teeth under skin of the chin + tightened ventrally.

Question 3

Fractures of the weight bearing axis of the pelvis need surgical repair. Which bone structures are involved in this axis?

Answer 3

The acetabulum, ilium and sacroiliac joint

Question 4

What 2 types of pelvic fracture will only need conservative treatment?

Answer 4

1. Pelvic floor fractures

2. Uncomplicated, minimially displaced/stable fractures without narrowing of the pelvic canal