188 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE. 



the animal useless. It is caused by casting and securing for 

 operations, slipping, falling, etc. 



Sijmjjfoms. — There is observed shortening of the limb, 

 considerable swelling and heat, pain, crepitation, difficulty 

 in moving the limb, etc. If the trochanter major be 

 fractured, there is difficulty in extending the limb. 



Femur. — Fracture of the trochanter externus is manifested 

 by symptoms very similar to those of the condition pre- 

 viously described. The treatment consists of keeping the 

 foot in a natural position, quietude, etc. Fracture occurring 

 through the shaft of the femur constitutes a hopeless case, 

 except in certain rare instances where the horse is young and 

 every other circumstance is favourable. 



Patella. — When fracture of the patella occurs, it is gene- 

 rally due to direct injury, or muscular contraction, etc., and 

 the fracture may be longitudinal or transverse. 



Treatment. — As a rule, treatment is useless, and the animal 

 should be destroyed. 



Tibia. — Fracture of this bone takes place oftener than 

 fracture of any other bone of the hind extremity. It is 

 caused by direct injury, and often occurs without displace- 

 ment taking place for some time afterwards — two or three 

 daj^s in some cases. 



Symi)toms. — The animal shows great pain, although the 

 injury may appear to be slight. He throws scarcely any 

 weight upon the limb, and, upon manipulating the part, 

 pain is considerably augmented, and is plainly expressed by 

 the animal. Where such symptoms are present, the prac- 

 titioner is safe in saying that fracture is present. Of course, 

 the extreme pain may be caused by laceration of the 

 periosteum, which may also be inflamed ; but treatment for 

 fracture is the safest plan. 



Treatment. — Quietude is essential. Tie the animal up in 

 the stall, and keej) there for some time ; bandage the limb. 



