Hematobiochemical and Histological Evaluation of Tissue Biopsies in Calves with Long Bone Fractures Treated Via Internal Fixation

Abstract

Background: For better clinical care of long bone fractures in animals, open reduction with plate fixation and wire suture is practical for restoring a fractured limb's functionality. Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate Hematobiochemistry, histology of tissue biopsies and bacteriology at different post-operative days with long bone fractures with internal fixation in calves. Methods: The calves were treated with open reduction, internal fixation with bone plate (group- I), and full cerclage SS wire (group- II). On days 0, 14, and 28 following surgeries, the haemato-biochemical, bacterial, histological, and clinical outcomes with or without complications were evaluated. Results: In this study, there were substantial changes in the neutrophil, lymphocyte, and total leukocyte counts (TLC). Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), C- reactive protein, calcium, phosphorus, and creatinine activities were significantly (P< 0.05) affected in both groups. Bacteriological analysis revealed that complicated fracture sites had acute infections with a substantial number of contaminating bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Tissue biopsies from complicated fracture sites either exhibited infections with plasma cells, lymphocytes, or with a massive number of granulocytes. After clinical and radiographic evaluation, plate fixation was associated with a much greater risk of complications (62.5%), as opposed to the full-cerclage wire, which was associated with a significantly lower incidence of complications. Conclusions: Based on biochemical and postoperative results, cerclage wire seems to be the preferred method of repairing long bone open fractures in calves, leading to quick secondary bone healing and the return of limb function.