Fracture Repair Surgery for Pets

At TLC Animal Hospital in El Paso, we understand how distressing it can be when your pet suffers a broken bone. Our experienced veterinary team is skilled in a variety of surgical techniques to stabilize and repair fractures, helping your pet regain comfort, mobility, and quality of life.

We offer advanced orthopedic solutions including **intramedullary (IM) pinning**, **IM pin with cerclage wire**, and **external fixation**, depending on the type and severity of the fracture.

What Is Fracture Repair Surgery?

Fracture repair surgery involves the use of specialized tools and techniques to realign broken bones and hold them securely in place while healing occurs. Successful fracture repair reduces pain, restores function, and prevents long-term complications. Our team selects the best technique based on your pet’s age, health, bone type, and the nature of the fracture.

Intramedullary (IM) Pinning

IM pinning involves inserting a metal rod (pin) directly into the central cavity of the bone (the medullary canal). This provides internal support and alignment for the fractured bone.

Best suited for: Long bone fractures (e.g., femur, humerus) with minimal fragmentation.
Benefits:
- Provides strong internal stabilization
- Minimally invasive in many cases
- Often used in combination with other methods for added support

IM Pinning with Cerclage Wire

In more complex fractures, especially those with oblique or spiral patterns, IM pins are combined with cerclage wires. These surgical wires are wrapped around the bone to hold fragmented sections together.

Best suited for: Fractures with multiple fragments or long oblique fractures.
Benefits:
- Enhances the stability of IM pin fixation
- Allows for more accurate anatomical alignment
- Useful in treating more complex or long oblique breaks

External Fixation Devices

External fixation involves placing pins or screws into the bone through the skin and connecting them with external rods or frames. This method stabilizes the fracture from outside the body.

Best suited for: Open fractures (fractures associated with a wound in the overlying skin), fractures with infection risk, or when internal implants are not ideal.
Benefits:
- Adjustable and adaptable for healing
- Ideal for wounds requiring ongoing care
- Avoids implants inside the fracture site

Recovery and Aftercare

Following fracture repair surgery, your pet will need time, care, and monitoring for optimal healing:
- Pain medications and antibiotics are prescribed as needed
- Strict activity restriction for several weeks to months
- Regular follow-up x-rays to monitor bone healing
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy may be recommended

Our team will provide a complete recovery plan tailored to your pet’s specific needs and type of repair performed.

Why Choose TLC Animal Hospital?

Our surgical team at TLC Animal Hospital offers advanced orthopedic care with a compassionate touch. We provide:
- Skilled fracture assessment and surgical planning
- Multiple repair options tailored to your pet’s needs
- Modern anesthesia, pain control, and monitoring equipment
- Full support from surgery through recovery

We are proud to serve pets and their families across El Paso and the surrounding communities.

Schedule a Surgical Consultation Today

If your pet has suffered a fracture or you've been referred for orthopedic evaluation, we’re here to help. Contact TLC Animal Hospital to schedule a consultation with one of our veterinarians to explore the best options for repair and recovery.