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The growth rate in young dogs is extremely rapid. Puppies
weighing only a few pounds can change in size tenfold over
only a few months. The bones of these young animals need
to be extremely active during this period as they grow in
both length and width.
Cartilage which is soft and malleable is replaced over
time by denser and much stronger bone. Unfortunately these
areas of rapidly growing zones between cartilage and bone
known as growth plates are areas of weakness when the bone
is stressed. Consequently, when puppies break their legs
it tends to occur at these growth plate areas.In addition
these fractures can occur with surprising ease.
"Gunner" Sparham, a 7 month old Springer Spaniel,
was out for a walk with his owners in Derbyshire when his
back leg fell down a hole in what seemed a very innocuous
fashion. Fortunately, his owners realised that a potentially
serious injury had occurred and took him to their local
vet.
Once x-rayed it became clear to his vet that he had broken
his thigh bone through the growth plate above his knee.
The importance of a good outcome in such a young patient
was all too apparent and "Gunner" was referred
to myself at Fairfield.
Good apposition of the bone ends and rigid fixation is
vital in order to effect a good recovery with no long term
effects such as osteoarthritis. Fortunately, we were able
to reduce the bone ends without too much difficulty and
secure them in place with 2 stainless steel cross pins.
Post operative x-rays are vital to ensure that we have been
successful.
The tense atmosphere of the operating theatre staff is
always greatly relieved when after viewing the x-ray I comment
" I am fully satisfied with the outcome"...........or
words to that effect! Needless to say "Gunner"
the Springer is recovering well and living up to his breed's
name!
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