Diaphyseal fractures: Mid-diaphyseal transverse

Mid-diaphyseal transverse fractures are most commonly encountered in foals who are kicked.

The foal is presented with non-weight-bearing lameness and axial instability in the mid-antebrachial region. In most instances, foals with transverse fractures in the mid-diaphysis are believed to have received the kick to the cranial aspect of the antebrachial region.
There may be varying degrees of soft-tissue swelling and there may be a wound either associated with the kick on the cranial aspect of the leg or when a fragment has penetrated the skin on the medial side of the leg.

The diagnosis is verified through radiography. It is recommended to obtain a complete radiographic series to identify the full extent of the injury. It is advisable to leave the first aid fixation in place for the radiographs to minimize further damage to the overlying soft-tissue envelope.

Although most of these fractures are the result of being kicked, occasionally the injury is sustained when the mare inadvertently steps on the antebrachial region of a recumbent foal whose limb is concealed beneath the bedding material in the stall, as was the case in the1 week old foal shown here.