Articles Related to External Fixation
Research in Fracture Healing and Its Clinical Applications in the Veterinary Practice
Bone healing is a complex process consisting of multiple sequential phases needing the coordinated interaction of various cells, growth factors, cytokines and mechanical conditions. However, bone healing is one of the rare regenerative processes resulting in complete restoration of form and function. Fracture treatment aims towards a swift return to functional use of the injured limb. Therefore stabilization is a key requisite. In the veterinary clinic difficult fracture cases often require a unique stabilization by custom made external fixation. While this fixation technique harbors risk factors it offers a high flexibility essentially needed to successfully treat small animal fracture patients. Here we draw the connection between the up-to-date knowledge in bone healing and case reports of external fixation techniques from the small animal practice with respect to benefits and risk factors.