Fracture repair with transfixation pins and fiberglass cast in llamas and small ruminants

Transfixation pinning with fiberglass casting is an effective and adaptable method of longbone fracture fixation in llamas and small ruminants. Treatment of fractures in 7 limbs of 4 llamas and 2 small ruminants with this technique are described. Steinmann pins are placed transcortically proximal, and if necessary, distal to the fracture. The pin ends and limb are encased in fiberglass cast material. The cast is strong enough in animals of this size to eliminate the need for external frames or connecting bars. Severely comminuted fractures and fractures near joints are especially suited to fixation with this technique. Complications encountered in these cases included loosening of pins and one delayed union. All fractures healed to permit full use of the limb.