FRACTURE OF BONES 371 



ure in the lumbar region produces paraplegia and paralysis 

 of the posterior portion of the body. Differentiation between 

 hemorrhage in the canal, edema of the cord and fractures is 

 often difficult and can be determined only by the progress 

 of the case. Fractures of the coccygeal vertebrae are easily 

 determined by crepitus and the increased mobility of the 

 parts. 



Prognosis. — Complete fracture of the vertebrae is unfavor- 

 able. Fracture of the lateral processes or coccygeal vertebrae 

 is favorable. 



Treatment.— No treatment is possible in fracture of the 

 cervical and lumbar vertebrae. The animal should be placed 

 in a quiet, comfortable place. Give nourishing food. If 

 necessary artificial feeding should be carried out. Laxatives 

 are also necessary. Simple fracture of the coccygeal vertebrae 

 is best treated by bandaging. If complications arise or a 

 compound fracture is present amputation may be necessary 

 at the point of fracture, or slightly above. 



Fracture of the Ribs.— This is found most commonly in 

 dogs and is of very frequent occurrence. 



Etiology.— Produced in many cases by being run over by 

 vehicles, struck by objects, or kicked. 



Symptoms.— One or two ribs may be fractured without 

 producing marked symptoms. This is especially true in 

 partial and in simple fractures. Some will show displace- 

 ment and enlargement at the point of fracture. Crepitus is 

 hard to distinguish in all patients. Compound fractures may 

 cause injury to the pleura or lung tissue. Examination should 

 be made carefully. 



Prognosis.— Favorable unless complications involving the 

 pleura and lungs develop. 



Treatment.— Most cases do not require any treatment. 

 Keep the animal quiet. A bandage applied around the thorax 

 to assist in keeping the parts fixed might be used. Compli- 

 cations involving the pleura and lungs should be treated 

 according to the conditions. 



Fracture of the Scapula.— This is not of frequent occur- 

 rence. In dogs the points of fracture most common are 

 through the neck and glenoid cavity. In young animals 



