Coccygeal fractures

Fracture of the sacrococcygeal spine may involve the coccygeal vertebra.

A coccygeal luxation and avulsion fracture is shown.

• Rearing and falling over backward
• Collisions and kicks by other horses

Clinical signs of coccygeal vertebral fractures depend on:

• Degree of bony disruption
• Instability at the fracture site

Clinical signs can be:

• Pain and swelling over the tail, tail weakness or paralysis

Radiographs:

• Radiographs are a very useful tool to identify coccygeal fractures

Radiographic examination:

• Lateral radiographs
• Ventrodorsal radiographs are possible for the caudal tail

Computertomography:

• Complete CT of the thoracolumbar/sacrococcygeal region is possible in foals, small horses, ponies and donkeys.

Myelography:

• Possible in foals, small horses, ponies, and donkeys.

MRI:

• A complete examination is possible in foals, small horse, ponies, and donkeys