My wife's Yellow Lab was hit by a car on Friday, last. I examined the dog for respiratory, neurological, and other injuries first. Then I examined the 'obviously' fractured right fore leg.
He had sustained an oblique compound fracture of his radius and ulna and was in a lot of pain. I manually felt the main artery and it was intact. I carefully slipped the protruding radius bone back, and into good alignment. (80% of a dog's weight in the front is supported by the radius) The ulna is so close in anatomical proximity to the radius that it followed into alignment with the radius. I observed no bleeding, and the poor dog's pain subsided, so all was going well. He began presenting signs of shock so I had 2 helpers to quickly dry his hair (as it had been raining) and I wrapped him in a space blanket. His heart rate and breathing came back to normal and irreversible shock was prevented. All was looking good.
I started off with a splinting/casting technique I learned while in (civilian) Special Forces training for Nicaragua. The oblique compound fracture was realigned properly, and arterial perfusion was palpable. I applied good pressure to the fracture and held it there until I felt his muscles contract. (this is a natural response in humans and animals...and actually aids in maintaining alignment of the bones) I made a 1/2" gauze splint and taped it up well. Next, I used 2 pieces of cardboard; 1 for the back of the fracture and another overlapping plate for the front...and taped it well with duct tape. Next, I made a large cushion of gauze around the entire leg; from shoulder and scapula to the foot. (I left the foot visible as a diagnostic indicator of too much pressure from my cast. (cold foot = poor perfusion of blood...and time to re-cast; and the middle toes of a dog should remain together if the pressure of the cast isn't too restrictive of blood supply) I taped the entire cast in waterproof duct tape to keep it all dry. (important !)
The dog is doing well...and is walking again. I checked his urine and feces for blood for 24 hours and all was well.
This is a good technique to know if you have a pet that has sustained a fracture. All 3 types of fractures can be repaired with my method. A comminuted fracture can be the worst and open surgery is usually needed. I have performed this surgery once with an excellent result. I have closed and cast several fractures on dogs, cats, and other animals with a fine success rate. I practiced on domestic chickens with fractured femurs. I had to use this training on one man during my training and he did well...with perfect alignment. (fractured ulna)
I prefer to close a fracture before the adjoining muscles begin to stiffen and contract. This is where my procedure/training differs from traditional or conservative medicine. I opt for the contraction of the muscles to aid in the alignment of the bones.
It's good to know these medical techniques (actually battlefield medicine techniques)if you own pets and cannot afford Vet fees.
I offer the technique to whomever may need or chose it.
