Screw fixation

This procedure is performed with the patient placed in lateral recumbency and through stab incisions.

The optimal screw position is chosen based on the fracture configuration seen on radiographs.
A stab incision is placed over the planned screw position(s) of the fractured tarsal bone.

A 4.5 mm cortex screw is placed in lag fashion using routine technique.
Depending on the fracture configuration, one additional screw may be required.
Correct screw placement is confirmed using the C-arm before the stab incision(s) is/are closed in two layers.

Recovery

A support bandage that includes the entire tarsal region is applied and the horse is recovered from anaesthesia with manual assistance.

Aftercare

The limb is bandaged for 15 days. The horse is confined to a box stall for 2 months, and subsequently put on a small paddock for another 2 months. The sutures are removed 10 days postoperatively.