Veterinary Questions * Dogs * Cats * Vet Answers * Vet Advice * Orthopaedics

The Orthopaedic Set used to fix fractures. The T-shaped instrument in the middle is called a Jacob’s Chuck and is used most often. The actual pins we use to insert into the bone are seen at the top of the picture.   

Stacey came to us as a six-month-old female cross breed dog. She had been involved in a MVA the previous day.

The left hind leg (femur) had been fractured. In the photo one can see how the affected leg had swollen after the accident. She was immediately put on pain killers and anti-inflammatory drugs. The operation would take place the next day.

She was a very brave and sweet natured dog.

The radiographs show the fracture in Stacey’s left femur.  This type of fracture is described as “oblique” . A “transverse” fracture is when the fracture-line follows the shortest route bisecting the thickness of the bone.

Both fracture types are fixable, but require different approaches.

Post-op radiograph:

An intra-medullary pin has been placed and four cerclage wires applied.

The various forces on the leg must be taken into account when doing the operation. The wires counteract rotational forces and the pin prevents bending of the fracture site.

I usually prefer to leave the pin inside the leg, however, it must sometimes be removed after the fracture has healed to allow proper joint use if the pin is close to a joint.

Stacey just after the operation. Still a bit groggy, but wagging her tail! The right-hand photo shows her sniffing in the courtyard about week after the operation, taking full weight on the leg. It was a privilege to know you!