Fracture

A fracture is a break or crack in any bone in the body. Fractures typically result from significant trauma, such as falls, car accidents, or other forceful impacts. In some cases, bones weakened by underlying conditions like cancer or nutritional deficiencies can fracture more easily (pathological fractures). The severity can range from a hairline crack (fissure fracture) to a complete break where the bone is displaced (compound fracture, where bone breaks through skin, is particularly serious). Symptoms include acute pain, swelling, deformity of the limb, and an inability to use the affected leg. Fractures are emergencies and require immediate veterinary attention for stabilization and repair, often involving surgical techniques like plates, screws, or external fixators.