Abstract
Nine foals with various long bone fractures were surgically corrected with a compression plating using a compression device. Two foals with compound fractures of the radius and metacarpus were destroyed 3 and 6 months after the operation because of infectious osteomyelitis. Two other cases showed mild postoperative infections, but were successfully treated using antibiotic therapy. In the foal with a metacarpal fracture, a fiberglass cast was applied for two months after surgery. In the case of the communited fracture of the olecranon, the displacement occurred after the operation and a second operation was performed.
In 7 of the 9 foals operated, the plates were ren oved two to three mouths after the surgical corrections. Radiographically, little visible callus formation was seen in the sites of the fracture, indicating that the fracture union was achieved in the course of primary healing. It is thougth that the most benefical usage of this method is early pain releaf and early locomotor recovery. This method may also decrease the incidence of postoperative complications which are often seen in the case using other surgical techniques or conservative treatments.
