Fracture Repair in Farmington, NM
Fracture repair may be needed when a pet breaks a bone due to trauma, injury, or an accident. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the fracture and may involve surgical stabilization to help the bone heal properly.
Book OnlineFractures in pets can happen for many reasons, from car accidents and falls to bite wounds and even everyday jumps that go wrong, especially in smaller or older pets with more fragile bones. The right treatment approach depends on several factors, including the type of fracture, its location, your pet’s age and size, and whether other injuries are present.
Common signs of a fracture include:
- Sudden lameness or inability to bear weight on a limb
- Visible swelling, deformity, or an abnormal angle in the limb
- Pain when the area is touched
- Crying out or reluctance to move
- In open fractures, visible bone or a wound at the fracture site
Diagnosis typically starts with digital X-rays to determine the exact location and severity of the break, along with an assessment for any other injuries that may have occurred at the same time. Depending on the fracture, treatment options may range from splinting or casting to surgical stabilization using pins, plates, or external fixation devices. Pain management and, in many cases, laser therapy are used to support comfort and healing throughout recovery.
If your pet has experienced a traumatic injury or is suddenly unable to bear weight on a limb, contact us right away at (505) 326-2205 so we can evaluate the injury as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my pet has a broken bone?
Signs include sudden lameness, visible swelling or deformity, pain when the area is touched, and reluctance to move or bear weight on the affected limb.
Is a fracture always a surgical emergency?
Not always, but fractures should be evaluated promptly. Some can be managed with splinting or casting, while more complex fractures often require surgical stabilization.
How is a fracture diagnosed?
Digital X-rays are used to determine the exact location and severity of the fracture, along with an exam to check for any additional injuries.
What are the treatment options for a broken bone in pets?
Treatment can range from splinting or casting for simpler fractures to surgical repair using pins, plates, or external fixation devices for more complex breaks.
How long does it take for a fracture to heal?
Healing time varies based on the fracture’s severity, location, and treatment, but many fractures take several weeks to a few months to fully heal.
Will my pet need physical therapy after fracture repair?
Some pets benefit from rehabilitation exercises and treatments like laser therapy to support healing and regain full mobility after fracture repair.
What should I do if I suspect my pet has a broken bone?
Keep your pet as still and calm as possible and contact us right away, since prompt evaluation and treatment lead to the best outcomes for fracture recovery.