Minimally Invasive & Open Fracture Repair Veterinary Specialist

Minimally Invasive or Open Fracture Repair

Treating fractures and other injuries related to veterinary orthopedic care.

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What is Minimally Invasive Care?

Fractures in pets often result from significant trauma, such as car accidents or falls, and can also stem from bone diseases like cancer. Young, growing dogs are particularly susceptible to fractures around growth plates. It's crucial to have your pet evaluated by a veterinarian immediately following any traumatic event to rule out life-threatening conditions. If the trauma occurs outside of regular veterinary hours, an emergency veterinarian should be consulted. Diagnosis typically involves radiographs to identify the specific bone and fracture type, and sometimes a CT scan is recommended.

Introduction:

Treatment for fractures usually involves surgery to ensure optimal alignment and stabilization, leading to less pain and faster healing. At Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics, various surgical options like intramedullary pins, locking bone plates, and external fixation are available. The goal is to customize treatment to the specific fracture and the pet's needs. Minimally invasive techniques using fluoroscopic imaging and arthroscopy help reduce pain and accelerate recovery. It’s important not to rely solely on splints or casts, as this can lead to chronic, non-healing fractures that are more difficult and costly to treat.

Post-surgery, pets require 8-12 weeks of rest and restricted activity to prevent complications like implant breakdown or soft tissue injuries. Supervised confinement is recommended to avoid excessive movement. Regular follow-ups, including radiographs and orthopedic exams, will monitor healing. Physical rehabilitation starting two weeks after surgery aids in faster recovery, maintaining muscle mass, and improving range of motion. Rehabilitation sessions, both formal and at-home exercises, help control energy levels and support healing. Patients treated conservatively also benefit from regular rehabilitation over several months.

Clinical Signs and Diagnosis

Are there any complications?

Complications from fracture surgery include implant breakdown, infection, and soft tissue injuries, often due to overactivity. Infection rates are generally low unless the fracture is open, but antibiotics are administered during and sometimes after surgery. If complications arise, they usually resolve with rest, rehabilitation, and medication. Anesthesia, though safe, carries some risks, so a thorough physical exam and blood work are conducted pre-surgery. Continuous monitoring by trained staff during surgery ensures the highest safety levels for your pet.

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