Multiple Rib Fracture Repair in a Neonatal Holstein Calf

Objectives— To report rib fracture repair in a neonatal calf using the Securos^® Cranial Cruciate Ligament Repair System (SCCLRS).
Study Design— Case report.
Animals— A 2-day-old female Holstein calf with fracture of right ribs 4–10.
Methods— On the day of admission the calf was anesthetized and rib fractures were repaired using open reduction and the SCCLRS.
Results— Rib fractures were successfully stabilized and the calf discharged from the hospital 8 days postoperatively.
Conclusions— Modification of previously reported use of the SCCLRS to repair rib fractures in foals was required because of the different anatomy in the calf. This new technique was rapidly and easily performed for a large number of fractured ribs in this case.
Clinical Relevance— Effective rib fracture repair in calves can be readily performed using the SCCLRS with modification of the technique reported in foals.