Management of comminuted supracondylar fractures of the humerus with closed reduction and a hybrid type Ml external fixator

Abstract

SummaryClosed reduction and a hybrid type I-II external skeletal fixator (ESF) were utilised for the repair of comminuted supracondylar humeral fractures in seven dogs and two cats. The modified design of the ESF afforded significant flexibility in the management of these fractures, with closed reduction allowing the principles of biological osteosynthesis to be applied. Successful bone healing was achieved in eight cases. During implant removal, refracture occurred in one case. In comminuted supracondylar fractures of the humerus, where accurate fragment reduction is not feasible or where reconstruction may lead to further soft tissue damage and compromised blood supply to the bony fragments, the construct appeared to offer advantages, both mechanically and biologically, over other external fixator designs or bone plating. The design was used successfully in both large and small dog breeds and cats. The aim of this study is to report on the management and outcomes of comminuted supracondylar fractures managed using closed reduction and a hybrid type I-II ESF.