Limb fracture

Introduction

Cause: the combination of a light-weight skeleton in the rabbit and underlying osteoporosis of many pet rabbits means that fractures are a common problem. Trauma, improper handling and dropping are the most common causes of limb fractures in pet rabbits.
Signs: acute onset lameness following trauma. Skin lesions and wounds associated with open fractures.
Diagnosis: physical examination, palpation, radiographic examination.
Treatment: conservative, external coaptation, external/internal fixation, limb amputation depending on type and severity of fracture.
Prognosis: good if presented early post-trauma.

Print off the Owner factsheets It's an emergency and Health insurance for your rabbit to give to your clients.

Acute onset lameness.
Skin lesions and wounds associated with open fractures.
Due to the 'preservation reflex' of prey animals, the rabbit may not show visible evidence of pain. However, subtle signs include altered or reduced locomotion, anorexia, or hiding.

High incidence of fox or dog attacks in rabbits housed outdoors.
House rabbits accidentally trodden on by owners when underfoot or dropped during restraint.

Hospitalization of the rabbit.
Radiography (pre- and post-surgery and follow up).
Orthopedic surgery - all orthopedic procedures in rabbits must have a careful cost analysis discussed with the owner.
Case studies report that most limb fractures in rabbits are closed. However, many fractures are both comminuted and contaminated, and need extensive treatment prior to surgery.
Surgical repair will necessitate repeated check-up consultations.
Cost of implants, splints and dressing changes.
Analgesia and antimicrobials.
Referral to an orthopedic specialist may be necessary for comminuted distal tibial fractures (this is becoming more of an option now for owners with insured rabbits).
After repair, the prognosis for functional recovery is good and most fractures heal without complications, with reports around 86%. Post-surgical complications were reported in 41% of cases in one study. Complications of repair are common, as rabbits are prone to osteomyelitis Osteomyelitis.
If cost is a problem, salvage amputation Limb amputation should be discussed as a possible life-sparing option. This is also an option if surgical repair is unsuccessful.

With comminuted open fractures the risk of osteomyelitis is very high.
Lengthy orthopedic procedures also carry an anesthetic risk so expeditious technique is required.
The rabbit should be stabilized prior to surgery to reduce the risks related to general anesthesia.