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Humerus fractures in llamas and alpacas: seven cases (1998-2004)
Kenneth D Newman1, David E Anderson
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
Objective:
To describe treatment and outcome of humerus fractures in llamas and alpacas.
Study Design:
Retrospective study.
Animals:
Llamas (n=4) and alpacas (3) with humerus fracture.
Methods:
Medical records (January 1, 1998-August 1, 2004) were reviewed for small camelids with a humeral fracture. Retrieved data were signalment, history, physical examination and radiographic findings, surgical and medical treatment, and outcome.
Results:
Humeral fracture occurred in 7 of 38 (18%) camelids admitted with fractures. Affected animals were aged from 1 month to 3 years old. Fracture configuration included long-oblique (n=4), short-oblique (2), and Salter-Harris Type II fracture of the proximal physis (1). One adult llama was managed by stall confinement and surgical repair was attempted in the other camelids: fixation by screws inserted in lag fashion (n=3), intramedullary pinning and fixation by screws inserted in lag fashion (1), rush pinning (1), and bone plating (1). A Velpeau sling was used for additional support in 3 animals. All fractures healed but temporary radial nerve paresis occurred in 3 animals. Limb shortening and permanent lameness occurred in the llama managed conservatively.
Conclusions:
Humerus fractures in small camelids are amenable to surgical repair which may offer better long-term outcome than medical treatment alone.
Clinical Relevance:
Surgical treatment of humerus fractures should have a good prognosis in llamas and alpacas. In select cases, minimally invasive techniques, such as rush pinning or fixation by screws inserted in lag fashion are sufficient for fracture healing.
