TREATMENT OF A COMMINUTED FRONTAL-PLANE FRACTURE OF THE DISTAL PHALANX IN A HORSE

Successful treatment of a comminuted frontal plane fracture of the dis tal phalanx in a horse is described. The bone fractured through the so lar canal, close to the insertion of the deep digital flexor tendon. A hoof cast was used to reduce bending and tensile stresses on the sola r surface by limiting expansion of the hoof wall during weightbearing, In addition, the heel was elevated, using 3 degrees wedge pads incorp orated within the hoof cast, to reduce distraction at the fracture sit e caused by the pull of the deep digital flexor tendon. Two casts were used over a 4-month period. Complete radiographic healing of the frac ture was evident 4 months after injury At this time the horse was lame at the trot. The owner reported the horse to be sound 7 months after injury. Reexamination 12 months after injury revealed a clinically nor mal foot and no lameness.