Research Summary - 4
Distribution and outcomes for limb fractures in small ruminants: A retrospective study of 73 cases (2013-2025)
| Date/Time: |
8/29/2026
15:45
|
| Author: |
Emilee Cramer |
| Clinic: |
University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine |
| City, State, ZIP: |
knoxville, TN 37996 |
Emilee Cramer, Student
1
;
Katrijn Whisenant, DVM, DACVS-LA
2
;
Pierre-Yves Mulon, DVM, DACVS-LA
2
;
1College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37919
2Large Animal Clinical Science Department, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37919
Introduction:
With the rise in companion small ruminants, owners are seeking a wider spectrum of treatment options, especially for fractures. Few retrospective studies have been done to distinguish small ruminant-specific fracture patterns from other large animals and to assess treatments options with associated outcomes. The objective of this study was to determine the distribution, characterization, treatment, and outcomes for limb fractures in small ruminants to identify treatments and prognostic factors and guide veterinary decision-making.
Materials and methods:
Clinical records were reviewed for history, signalment, clinical findings, radiographic characteristics, treatment, and outcome. Positive outcome was established as the animal successfully returning to his intended use. Descriptive analysis was applied. Seventy-three cases of appendicular fractures in small ruminants were identified between January 2013 and July 2025.
Results:
Goats represented 61 cases and sheep 12 cases.
No specific breed was over-represented. thirty-nine animals were males (24 bucks/rams and 15 wethers) and 34 were females. Mean and median age at presentation were 20 and 10 months respectively. Lameness was reported as non weight bearing for 36 cases, minimally weight bearing for 6, unspecified in 19. 12 patients were presented recumbent.
Four patients were polytraumatized. Distribution of the fracture were: forelimbs (41) and hindlimbs (36); distal (36), proximal (36) and pelvic (5). Eleven cases had open fractures. Various degrees of comminution were present in 44 fractures. Location of the fracture in long bone was metadiahyseal for 53 cases, physeal or epiphyseal for 15 cases and the most common type of fracture was short oblique.
All treatments options consisted in confinement, external coaptation, transfixing and casting technique, Open reduction and amputation. Eleven cases were euthanized following presentation. The overall short-term positive outcome was 87.1% for 62 treated small ruminants.
Significance:
Small ruminants are great orthopedic patients who tolerate all treatment modalities well and for whom closed fractures carry a good to excellent prognosis with appropriate treatment choice.
