Use of a circular external skeletal fixator to treat comminuted metacarpal and tibial fractures in six calves

A circular external skeletal fixator system was used to fix long-bone fractures in six calves, three with tibial fractures and three with metacarpal fractures. An Ilizarov apparatus of appropriate diameter, depending on the calves' bodyweight, was used. In the postoperative period, clinical and radiological examinations were carried out to assess fracture healing, the stability of the fixator and when the calves could make full use of the limb. The fixator was tolerated well, the fractures healed and the fixators maintained rigid stability. The calves were able to use their limbs fully after between 15 and 27 days.