Surgical management of metatarsal fracture using wire suture in a sheep: A case report

Abstract

Background: The most frequent orthopedic condition that prevents animals from moving normally is a long-bone fracture. The diagnosis and surgical treatment of closed metatarsal fracture in sheep are the main goals of this study.

Materials and Methods: A three-month-old female sheep was presented with a history of the left metatarsal bone losing its function, pain at the fracture site, aberrant motion in the affected leg, and fluid or exudate flowing from the fracture site. While radiographs indicated an oblique metatarsal fracture of the left hind limb, palpation of the left metatarsal bone revealed discomfort and fracture fragments. Following internal stabilization with cerclage wire suture, the fracture was treated. Surgery was carried out following the proper immobilization, aseptic procedure, and anesthetic protocol (atropine 0.04 mg/kg BW intramuscularly, five minutes later: xylazine 0.06 mg/kg BW intravenously).

Results: The sheep was released from the hospital after the procedure bearing weight on the limb effectively and without any issues. A successful clinical outcome was obtained after surgical alteration.

Conclusions: Open fractures necessitate swift, aggressive debridement, stability of the fracture, and early soft tissue restoration. The only practical method for managing fractures may be early surgical treatment and post-operative care.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33109/bjvmjd2022case1