Computed Tomographic Characteristics of Greyhound Central Tarsal Bone Fractures.

Objective:  To characterize central tarsal bone fractures and associated tarsal fractures in a cohort of racing and ex-racing greyhounds using computed tomography (CT).

Study design:  Retrospective observational study including 66 client-owned greyhounds (67 limbs) presented for central tarsal bone fracture between 2017 and 2024. Collected data included signalment, racing history, and laterality of tarsal injury. Central tarsal bone fractures were characterized using a previously described grading system, and concomitant tarsal injuries were recorded.

Results:  Of 67 central tarsal bone fractures, 59 showed moderate to severe comminution. Six fractures were dorsal slab fractures, one was a combined dorsal and medial slab fracture, and one was a luxation. Consistent with the findings of prior studies, the majority of central tarsal bone fractures affected the right limb (58/67 limbs). The most common concomitant tarsal injuries were fractures of the fourth tarsal bone (30/67 limbs), fractures of the calcaneus (25/67 limbs), and proximal intertarsal instability or luxation (6/67 limbs).

Conclusion:  CT reveals a substantially higher number of highly comminuted fractures than have been reported in prior studies that characterized central tarsal bone fractures using orthogonal radiography. Concurrent injury to other tarsal structures is a common finding and is an accurate predictor of severe comminution of the central tarsal bone.