News
5/03/09: New fracture repair service for West Wales
We have recently acquired the necessary equipment to repair equine bone fractures, another first for West Wales.
It may be a pleasant surprise to learn that a considerable number of fracture types are repairable, and even carry a fair prognosis. It is important that they are recognised early, X-rays are taken and appropriate first aid is provided to immobilise the leg and make the horse more comfortable.
Most fractures are assessed and immobilised as an emergency, but operated on during working hours. This makes it much safer for the horse’s anaesthetic, and also gives us a chance to obtain the specific size orthopaedic implants we need.
The cost of fracture repair is likely to be in the same order of magnitude as colic surgery, but entirely depends on the complexity of the procedure (number of implants and surgery time).
Vets interested in this service are encouraged to telephone for advice and an estimate. Owners with horses with fractures are encouraged to ask their vet “is it repairable”, rather than assume euthanasia is the only option.
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