FRACTURES AND HARNESS INJURIES 215 



new tissue or bone callus is formed bv the bone-forming cells 

 in the deeper layer of the periosteum and bone-marrow. 



The prognosis is unfavorable. The larger percentage of 

 fractures in domestic animals are incurable, or make an un- 

 satisfactory recovery. This is due to careless treatment, the 

 character of the fracture and the inability to fix the ends of the 

 broken bone. Fractures in young and small animals usually 

 heal quickly. Individuals that are healthy and vigorous usually 

 make a speedy recovery. Fractures heal very slowly in the aged. 

 Compound and comminuted fractures are impossible to treat 

 in the larger percentage of cases. 



The treatment consists in fixing the broken bone or bones 

 in a normal position by means of bandages and splints. If 

 this is not practised, the surrounding tissues become injured by 

 the broken ends of the bone, and the fracture may become so 

 complicated as to render treatment useless. Motion retards or 

 prevents the repair of the break. 



However, fractures of the ribs, pelvic bones and sometimes 

 long bones that are well covered by heavy muscles heal naturally 

 or in the absence of any means of retention. 



Bandaging. — The attendant must use good judgment in de- 

 vising means of fixing the broken bone, and in holding it in its 

 natural position. Whenever possible, a plaster bandage should 

 be used. This must not be made too heavy, and it is very neces- 

 sary to adjust it properly, so that it will stay in place and not 

 become too tight or too loose. When applied to the limb, the 

 bandage should extend as far down as the hoof, and some dis- 

 tance above the break. This is necessary in order to keep it from 

 slipping down and becoming too loose. A soft bandage should 

 be applied first in order to equalize the pressure from the plaster 

 cast and protect the skin. Wooden splints are not very satis- 

 factory agents for the treatment of fractures. Thick leather that 

 has been made soft by soaking in warm water and then shaping 

 it to the part makes a more satisfactory splint. In all cases a 



