Title Surgical Repair of a Right Tibial Spiral Fracture

Signalment and History
KALU, a 6-year-4-month old male INDIE, presented with a history of acute onset forelimb/limb lameness following trauma. Owner reported a tibial fracture 4 days prior to referral; initial x-ray from another clinic indicated a mid-shaft spiral fracture of the tibia.

Clinical Examination
On presentation the patient had pain on manipulation of the tibia. No open wound or marked swelling was noted on initial exam. General exam and vitals were recorded and pre-anesthetic assessment performed.

"MRI + CT + 3D planning for safer surgery."

Diagnostic Imaging & Tests
Orthogonal radiographs (requisition 436255 / 437659) confirmed a mid-shaft spiral fracture of the right tibia. Preoperative diagnostics included CBC, KFT and LFT panels (values recorded in notes). Key lab highlights: WBC elevated (24,300 /µL on 15 Jul 2025), other parameters within acceptable peri-anesthetic limits. TFAST/AFAST were not required for this presentation.

Surgical Procedure
On 15 Jul 2025 the right tibial spiral fracture was repaired under general anesthesia (surgeon: Dr. Kunal Dev Sharma; associate: Dr. Tarun Nar Singh). Procedure notes indicate internal fixation (pinning and plating) was performed. Non-absorbable skin sutures applied. Estimated blood loss minimal, and no intraoperative complications were observed.

Postoperative Management
Immediate post-op analgesia included injectable meloxicam. Post-op medication plan issued on discharge included:

1. Toxomox 500 mg — 1 tab twice daily for 7 days

2. Firotail 227 mg — half tab once daily for 7 days

3. Chymoral Forte — 1 tab twice daily for 15 days

4. Condrovet — 1 tab once daily for 20 days

5. Boniheal syrup — 5 ml twice daily for 20 days

Owners were instructed: strict E-collar for 7 days; no licking/chewing the site; suture/staple removal at 7 days; daily wound inspection and antiseptic care; strict activity restriction (2–3 weeks confinement, leash toilet breaks only); review after 3 days for suture check and further follow-up for radiographs and patellar alignment as needed.

Outcome
(blank — not provided in supplied notes)

Discussion
Spiral mid-shaft tibial fractures in dogs commonly result from torsional trauma. Internal fixation with combined pin and plate constructs provides rotational and axial stability for predictable healing. Appropriate perioperative planning, strict postoperative confinement, and owner compliance are crucial to minimize complications and promote timely union.

Conclusion
This case documents successful intraoperative management of a right tibial mid-shaft spiral fracture using pinning and plating. With careful surgical technique and postoperative care, these fractures commonly progress to union and restoration of limb function.