Clinical and radiological evaluation of metacarpal fractures in calves: A retrospective study: 72 cases

Abstract

Metacarpal fractures are frequently encountered in calves especially due to dystocia. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate metacarpus fractures in calves from many aspects especially the causes of the fracture, the location and classification of the fracture and to determine the most appropriate treatment option. 72 calves diagnosed with metacarpus fracture, aged between 1 and 15 days, regardless of gender and breed, were included in the study. Calves were classified according to fracture types and treatment method. In the treatment, external fixation with Steinman pins, polyvinylchloride-fiberglass plaster supported closed or windowed bandage methods were preferred. According to the radiological examination findings, it was determined that the fractures were distal diaphyseal in 40 (55%) cases, epiphyseal in 20 (27%) cases, and middle diaphyseal in 12 (18%) cases. It was learned that 46 of 51 cases with closed fractures and bandages healed without any problem, and 5 cases died due to comorbidities (calf diarrhea, aspiration pneumonia). 5 out of 7 patients which had external fixation using Steinmann pins had an recovery without complication, meanwhile 2 patients died due to infection. Full recovery was observed in 12 of 14 patients who underwent window bandage, meanwhile it was learned that 2 patients died due to secondary infection. As a result, subtantial data that will contribute to clinical practice and literature knowledge in the causes, location, classification, and treatment of metacarpal fractures, which are frequently encountered in calves and cause loss in terms of both economic and productivity, have been revealed.