Management of Salter–Harris Type I Radius–Ulna Fracture Using Stainless Steel Elastic Nailing in a Dog: A Case Report

Abstract

A 10‑month‑old female German Shepherd (21 kg) was presented with non‑weight‑bearing lameness of the right forelimb 1 day after a bike accident. Physical examination revealed pain and crepitus in the distal third of the radius and ulna, with all other clinical parameters within normal limits. Under general anaesthesia, one 2 mm stainless steel elastic nail (SSEN) was inserted in the radius and one 2 mm SSEN in the ulna. The limb was additionally supported with a caudal splint and bandage for 2 weeks, and the dog received antibiotics and anti‑inflammatory drugs. Sutures were removed on day 14 without any evidence of infection, and the dog was periodically re‑examined for radiographic healing and weight bearing. The animal recovered uneventfully, with good limb function, and the implants were not removed. In this growing dog, elastic nailing was selected to minimise potential complications associated with bone plating, such as restriction of carpal joint motion and damage to the growth plate. Compared with rigid plating, elastic nailing is associated with a lower risk of reduced carpal range of motion and physeal disturbance. This case supports elastic intramedullary nailing as a useful alternative to plate fixation for distal radius‑ulna fractures in young dogs, providing stable fixation, good clinical outcome, and preservation of joint function.