SAEVA Proceedings 2016 | Page 236

  Radiography is essential to diagnose and formulate an appropriate treatment plan. Most foal fractures are Salter-Harris type 1 and 2 and it is imperative to differentiate these fractures with septic physitis which has a far worse prognosis. Management consists of stable confinement with external coaptation in the form of a light cast or a Robert-Jones bandage, sometimes in combination with splints for stable fractures, or surgical internal fixation combined with external coaptation for displaced unstable fractures. Prognosis deteriorates if articular surfaces are involved; however, with good reduction most of the fractures have a fair to good prognosis for athletic soundness. Long bone fractures Fracture of long bones in foals is not always a death sentence and some configurations may be effectively repaired. Any of the long bones may be fractured as a result of direct trauma (usually a kick or collision) and hindlimb fractures of the femur and tibia may result from uneq V