Equine Splint Bone Fractures

Question 1

the splint bones articulate with the carpal and tarsal bones. which splint bone has minimal articulation and weight transfer compared to the others?

Answer 1

MTIV

Question 2

open reduction and internal fixation using a plate is used for ______ splint bone fractures because ______

Answer 2

proximal

because otherwise at risk for avulsion like fracture later

Question 3

treatment options for splint bone fractures

Answer 3

• conservative wound management
• segmental ostectomy
• removal of distal portion (NEVER more than 2/3 except arguably for MTIV)
• open reduction + internal fixation for proximal fractures (plate screws should ONLY engage splint bone not cannon bone)

Question 4

what to remember when removing distal portion of splint bone after fracture?

Answer 4

NEVER more than 2/3 except arguably for MTIV

Question 5

what to remember when plating splint bone fractures

Answer 5

plate screws should ONLY engage splint bone not cannon bone

Question 6

function of splint bones

Answer 6

axial support to carpus and tarsus

Question 7

sequelae to splint bone fractures

Answer 7

sometimes rest alone is sufficient but can sometimes -> suspensory desmitis -> persistent lameness

Question 8

causes of splint bone fractures (2)

Answer 8

• hyperextension of the fetlock -> closed fracture

- trauma (like getting kicked) -> open fracture