32-C3   Complex fractures with non reconstructible wedges and no direct contact between the main two fragments

32-C3 are complex fractures with non- reconstructible wedges and no direct contact between the main two fragments. They often have a high degree of comminution.

32-C3 fractures are high-energy fractures often caused by a vehicular trauma, fall from height or gunshot.
Because of the comminution and the nature of the trauma, severe damage to the soft tissues is expected.
In these fractures, it is generally not possible and not recommended to attempt rebuilding the boney column; Therefore, indirect reduction techniques and preservation of the soft tissues are considered mandatory.

14 year old German shepherd cross with C3 fracture from being hit by a car.

32-C type fractures are complex diaphyseal fractures. They differ from the B-Type fractures by the fact that, once reconstructed, the two main fragments do not have direct contact with each other.

The fracture classification by definition states that B1, B2, C1 and C2 fracture are anatomically reconstructible fractures, whereas B3 and C3 are not reconstructible.

Note: B1, B2, C1 and C2 fractures, depending on the sizes of the fragments, may best be managed like a non-reconstructible fracture.