External skeletal fixation for stabilisation of comminuted humeral fractures in cats |
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| Authors: | S. J. LANGLEY-HOBBS,S. CARMICHAEL, W. T. McCARTNEY,&dagger |
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| Affiliation: | Queen Mother Hospital, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA;*Glasgow Veterinary School, Bearsden Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1QH;Veterinary Clinic Malahide, Strand Street, Malahide, Co Dublin |
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| Abstract: | Thirteen feline humeral fractures were stabilised using external skeletal fixation alone or in combination with supplementary devices. Eleven of the 13 fractures healed. Pins placed in the distal humerus should be angled to avoid the supracondylar foramen and radial nerve. An intramedullary pin in combination with external skeletal fixation is indicated for mildly comminuted reconstructable fractures. For severely comminuted humeral fractures, closed application of an external skeletal fixator may be preferable to open reduction and internal fixation to provide healing and is recommended as an alternative to amputation. |
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