FRACTURE OF BONES 373 



usually occurs in both bones simultaneously. When one 

 bone is fractured it is usually the olecranon portion of the 

 ulna. The lower third of the bones is the seat of the majority 

 of fractures. 



Etiology.— Practically always result from injuries. Some 

 few eases are due to diseases of the bones. 



Symptoms.— Inability to place weight on the limb and 

 angularity at the point of fracture. There are swelling and 

 distortion of the limb. When the olecranon is fractured the 

 distortion will be marked at the point of the elbow. Crepitus 

 and free movement between the fractured portions will be 

 apparent on manipulation. 



Treatment.— Wrapping the limb with ordinary linen band- 

 age is recommended until the swelling subsides. Plaster 

 bandages are unsatisfactory during the first few days owing 

 to the change in the size of the parts from swelling. A pad 

 of cotton should be applied to protect the skin from pressure 

 necrosis anil to allow for swelling to take place, then strips 

 of cardboard softened by placing in warm water for a few 

 minutes, and over this a linen bandage. The patient should 

 be observed to determine whether the bandage has been 

 drawn too tight or has become loose. Should the foot be 

 found swollen it indicates that the bandage is too tight and 

 free circulation of blood interfered with. It should be 

 loosened. After a few days a plaster bandage can be applied 

 if thought advisable. It should remain in position for a few 

 weeks to ensure complete union. Uniting the bone at point 

 of fracture with silver wire has been tried with varying 

 degrees of success. Radial fractures usually make prompt 

 and complete recoveries. 



Fracture of the Metacarpal and Phalangeal Bones.— These 

 bones are fractured from the same causes as mentioned under 

 the others. 



Diagnosis.— This is made by careful palpation* 



Treatment.— Bandage as in fracture of the radius and ulna. 

 In compound fractures it is sometimes necessary to amputate 

 a portion of the limb or toes. 



Fracture of the Pelvis.— Fracture of this bone is quite 

 common in small animals, and presents a variety of condi- 



