The treatment and healing process of bone fractures in horses is much more difficult compared to small animals such as cats, dogs or humans. The fractures in the legs of these large animals with an average weight of 500 kg can be of different types.
Treating a bone that cracks but does not break into pieces is relatively simple. A complete fracture has occurred if it split into two parts and caused an open wound to the skin. If it is divided into more pieces, a comminuted fracture has occurred.
Due diligence can be made by X-raying a horse suspected of having a broken leg.
If the broken bones have caused damage to the muscles and nerves, there is a serious fracture. The blood flow in this area may be impaired and the risk of infection of the wound increases over time. The amount of antibiotics to be given to prevent infection must be directly proportional to the horse’s size, so it is very difficult to treat infection in horses.
The first intervention at the time of the fracture is very important.
Such a heavy animal will reflexively step on its broken foot as it will try to stand on all fours to maintain its balance, which will cause the fracture to worsen. However, animals such as cats and dogs can stand on three legs, unfortunately horses cannot cope with it.
It is very important not to move the broken leg during the healing process.
The damaged area should not be burdened, but it is very difficult to achieve this on horses. It is not possible for them to lie down for weeks. During the healing process, the horse will put its weight on the other three legs, so its healthy hooves will be overloaded, which will increase the risk of infection.
Shooting scenes are very common in movies, but it’s worth remembering that these often took place in the past years and in rural areas far from the vet.
Although the treatment of horse leg fractures is still difficult, let’s point out that thanks to modern medicine, the death rate has decreased compared to the past. If it is seen that there is a fracture that is too serious to be treated and if two different veterinarians agree, needle anesthesia may be preferred.
Sources: 1, 2, 3
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