Results of Plate Fixation of Third Metacarpal and Metatarsal Diaphyseal Fractures

Diaphyseal fractures of the third metacarpal (MCIII) or metatarsal (MTIII) bones are not common in horses, although they are seen regularly in equine athletes. These fractures are as many as one third of all long-bone fractures in the horse. Treatment options for MCIII/MTIII fractures include internal fixation, external coaptation, and a combination of the two. The most stable treatment method is internal fixation. The quality of recovery and the possibility of return to athletic use are enhanced by stability, which keeps the limb functional during healing. Internal fixation increases the likelihood of infection because of the surgical exposure to insert the implants and the presence of the implants. One study showed the prognosis for healing was 67% using several treatment methods including internal fixation, transfixation pin casting and casting alone. The purpose of this study is to provide additional information on the success of internal fixation, using dynamic compression plating, of MCIII or MTIII diaphyseal fractures, and to determine the factors that contribute to success or failure. 2. Materials and Methods