Fractured fibulae in broiler fowls

Fibular diaphyseal fractures were identified bilaterally or unilaterally in 15 broilers aged between 13 and 105 days. Incomplete cortical defects were also identified on radiographs in a further 8 birds. Fractures and incomplete defects always occurred at the Tuberculum M. iliofibularis of fibulae. The character of bone at this site differed from bone elsewhere in the diaphysis. Following fracture, cartilaginous callus united the diaphyseal segments and pseudarthrosis or fibrous non-union were common sequelae. The concept that fibular fractures in broilers are always a consequence of abnormal proximal tibiotarsal curvature is not supported by this study. It is suggested that differential growth of the paired crural bones is of primary importance.