Case Of the Month

CT Study Of A Fractured Leg In An 8-Month-Old Tiger: Our December 2015 Case Of the Month

The patient was presented for a fractured leg. A high-resolution Computed Tomography of the right distal tibia and fibula was performed; bone window plain and post contrast series images were obtained.

DX

The computed tomographic findings were compatible with a complete closed subacute traumatic distal diaphyseal fracture of the right tibia and fibula with angular limb deformity and limb contraction. Bone healing stage is at transition from inflammation to early reparation phase. Moreover the findings suggest a Salter Harris type 5 compression of the distal tibial physis which may result in reduction of longitudinal growth capacity. There was disuse osteopenia of the bones distal to the fracture area. Surgical fixation is required.

Image Interpretation

There was a moderate soft tissue swelling circumferential to the distal tibia and fibula of the right hind limb. A short spiraling tibia fracture and short transverse fibula fracture both within the distal aspect of the distal diaphysis were noted. The fracture margins were sharply delineated. The fracture margins presented proximodistal overlapping emphasizing the caudal cortices which resulted in a 30° deviation of the limb axis. Several small isolated bone fragments were associated with the tibia fracture. Early periosteal reactions were seen at the fracture edges. The distal tibial and fibular epiphysis and the tarsal bones presented homogenous demineralization. The distal tibial physis presented irregular narrowing and mild new bone formation.