374 ARTICULAR RHEUMATISM—POLYARTHRITIS 



tions. The most common points of fracture are through 

 the symphysis, external angles of the ilium, or through the 

 acetabulum. Both unilateral and bilateral fractures are 

 observed. Complications are common following fracture of 

 the pelvis, owing to the injury of adjacent structures. Injury 

 to the nerves or bloodvessels is most common. 



Etiology.— Pelvic fractures are produced very frequently 

 by being run over, struck by objects, kicks, or falling. 



Symptoms.— The symptoms will vary somewhat depending 

 on the degree of fracture, its location, and the complications. 

 Deformity of the pelvis is present in fracture of the external 

 angle of the ilium. Crepitation and movement of the parts 

 can be detected. Fracture through the symphysis is evi- 

 denced by the unnatural gait of the animal, the abduction 

 of the limbs, and the separation which can be detected on 

 palpation between the fractured portions. It is sometimes 

 difficult to make a positive diagnosis in fracture at other 

 points on account of the smallness of the openings through 

 which the examination must be made. Complicating symp- 

 toms should be examined for in all cases. 



Prognosis.— Unless complications of hemorrhage and 

 destruction of some of the nerves occur, the prognosis is 

 considered favorable. Different degrees of deformity will be 

 met with which should be considered in the prognosis. The 

 condition is serious in breeding animals on account of the 

 deformity narrowing the pelvic canal. Such animals should 

 be given a careful examination in this regard. 



Treatment.— But little can be done in the way of treatment. 

 Union usually takes place promptly by giving the animal 

 protection for a few weeks. Various methods have been tried 

 to approximate fractures of the pelvis but with little success. 



Fracture of the Femur.— Fracture of the femur occurs 

 often in dogs, cats and rabbits. The majority of cases are 

 found involving the lower third of the bone. Some few cases 

 are observed in the upper portion, even involving the head 

 of the femur. 



Etiology.— Injuries and accidents account for the larger 

 number of cases. Diseases of the bone (fragilitas ossium and 

 osteomalacia) predispose to fracture. 



