Nonsurgical fracture management
1. Principles
Cast application
Cast application is not indicated for midbody and distal splint bone fractures, because it is not possible to immobilize distal fragment with a cast.
2. Nonsurgical treatment
The horse is kept in a bandage for 2 weeks.
Follow-up radiographs are taken 4 weeks after injury to judge fracture healing. Dependent upon the degree of fracture healing determined radiographically, continuation of conservative treatment will be necessary. Some cases require surgical treatment.
3. Aftertreatment
The horse is kept in a stall dependent upon the damage of the suspensory ligament. If the suspensory ligament is injured, it is recommended that horses receive stall rest for 2 or 3 months followed by a carefully monitored exercise program.
In cases where the suspensory ligament is not affected, the horse can be hand-walked three 3 weeks after surgery. After 3 weeks of hand-walking, the horse can be put back into training.
