In vitro evaluation of the effect of tris-EDTA and 0.0005% chlorhexidine solution on the strength of two absorbable sutures.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of 0.0005% chlorhexidine and tris-EDTA solution on the strength of three commonly used suture types for closure of equine ventral midline celiotomy. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Knotted loops (n = 10/group, 150 knot constructs total). METHODS: Strands of 2 polyglactin 910, 3 polyglactin 910, and 2 polydioxanone were tied to form knotted loops. All knotted loops were mounted on a tabletop force measurement machine system and loaded at 100 mm/min until the breaking force (N) was determined. The breaking force (N) of knotted loops using dry suture was recorded at study start, then of knotted loops soaked in either 0.0005% chlorhexidine and tris-EDTA for 20 min followed by incubation in equine serum (treatment) or serum alone (control) for 14 and 21 days. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) compared the breaking force between the treatment and control groups at each time point. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the breaking force of 2 USP polyglactin 910 (p = .35, confidence interval [CI] = -0.21-0.59), 3 USP polyglactin 910 (p = .61, CI = -0.41-0.24), or 2 USP polydioxanone (p = .76, CI = -0.63-0.46) soaked in 0.0005% chlorhexidine and tris-EDTA solution followed by equine serum when compared to each respective suture soaked in equine serum only. CONCLUSION/CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Since 0.0005% chlorhexidine and tris-EDTA solution did not exhibit a significant effect on the breaking force of the absorbable sutures studied, the solution may be used for incisional lavage in the clinical setting.

Acute Phase Protein Response in Native and Imported Horses After Routine Combination Vaccination Protocol.

Fibrinogen and serum amyloid A (SAA) are commonly measured equine acute phase proteins. Limited data exist on SAA and fibrinogen responses to combination vaccination protocols in horses. A prospective cohort study evaluating SAA, fibrinogen, and rectal temperature following a standard combination vaccination. Blood for measurement of SAA and serum fibrinogen and rectal temperatures were obtained before (0 hour) and after vaccination (24, 48, 72, 96, 168 hours). After vaccination, SAA and fibrinogen increased in all horses. Imports had elevated SAA from 24-168 hours, whereas native horses returned to baseline by 168 hours. Compared to native horses, SAA was significantly higher in imports (coefficient 24-168 hours 358, 95%CI: 46-671 mg/L; P = .03). Fibrinogen increased significantly from 24 to 168 hours postvaccination, but groups did not differ (coefficient -16; 95%CI: -69 to 37 mg/dL; P = .5). Absolute rectal temperatures were significantly higher in imports throughout, including 0 hour (median 37.8; IQR 37.7-38.0 vs. 37.3; 37.1-37.3; P = .002). At 24 hours postvaccination when temperatures significantly increased above baseline in both groups, there was a small but significant difference in the percent change relative to baseline (coefficient 1.9; 95%CI 0.8%-2.9%; P = .002). A standard combination vaccination protocol elicited an acute phase response in all horses. Compared to native previously vaccinated horses, imports had a stronger SAA response. The observed response is worthy of consideration when examining recently vaccinated imported horses.

Serum amyloid A and fibrinogen as markers for early detection of surgical site infection associated with internal fixation in the horse.

The objective of this study was to determine the diagnostic ability of serum amyloid A (SAA) and fibrinogen for early detection of surgical site infection (SSI) after equine internal fixation. Horses undergoing internal fixation for fracture, arthrodesis, or osteotomy with internal fixation for limb deformity were included in the study. SAA and fibrinogen were measured on blood samples preoperatively and on days 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 14 postoperatively. Statistical analysis included use of Spearman's rank correlation, logistic regression, and calculating the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. SAA and fibrinogen measurements were both associated with SSI, with SAA being considered an excellent marker (area under the ROC curve 0.8) and fibrinogen being considered acceptable (<0.8). As the amount of time postoperatively increased, SAA elevations indicated a higher likelihood of SSI (area under the ROC curve 0.8 compared with fibrinogen 0.7). SAA and fibrinogen were predictive markers of SSI and SAA is of greater diagnostic utility when compared with fibrinogen. Persistent elevations of SAA postoperatively are associated with the development of SSI. Serial monitoring of SAA can be used to help predict the development of SSI in horses undergoing internal fixation. This may lead to earlier suspicion, and therefore recognition and treatment of SSI.

Treatment of primary hyperparathyroidism in a Miniature Horse using chemical ablation of abnormal parathyroid tissue localized by 3-phase computed tomography.

A 15-year-old Miniature Horse mare with persistently increased plasma calcium (total and ionized) and serum parathyroid hormone concentrations was presented for suspected primary hyperparathyroidism. Ultrasonography of the thyroid region identified an enlarged heterogeneous mass axial to the right thyroid lobe suggestive of an enlarged parathyroid gland, which was further confirmed using sestamibi nuclear scintigraphy and 3-phase computed tomography. Percutaneous ultrasound-guided ethanol ablation of the mass, a method not previously described in the horse, was performed under general anesthesia resulting in rapid normalization of plasma ionized calcium and serum parathyroid hormone concentrations. Ablation of abnormal parathyroid gland tissue may be a suitable alternative to surgical resection in certain cases of primary hyperparathyroidism in the horse.

Case Report: Nuchal Bursitis Associated With Borrelia burgdorferi Infection in a Horse.

Cases of cranial nuchal bursitis associated with Borrelia burgdorferi infection have not been thoroughly described. Here, we describe the case of a 17-year-old mare that was presented for low head carriage, dull demeanor, and resistance to haltering. Imaging supported a diagnosis of nuchal bursitis, and bursoscopy with surgical debridement of the nuchal bursa was performed. B. burgdorferi was identified by molecular diagnostics in serial samples of the bursal fluid, with no other organisms identified. Serology revealed significant elevation in antibodies directed against OspA of B. burgdorferi, but not the typical infection markers, OspC and OspF. Intravenous ceftiofur was administered for 80 days, and the nuchal bursa was directly injected with ceftiofur. The mare recovered and was able to return to work with no recrudescence of clinical signs over the following year to date. Infection with B. burgdorferi should be considered as a differential in cases of septic nuchal bursitis.

The clinical and histopathologic effects of potentiated chlorhexidine in the upper respiratory tract of horses.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the bactericidal and fungicidal properties of a 0.0005% chlorhexidine (CHD) solution potentiated with EDTA-Tris buffers (CHD-EDTA-Tris) and evaluate the safety of 0.0005% CHD-EDTA-Tris in the upper respiratory tract (URT) of normal horses. STUDY DESIGN: Clinical, prospective study. ANIMALS: Eight healthy, skeletally mature horses. METHODS: In vitro-serial dilutions of CHD-EDTA-Tris and EDTA-Tris alone were evaluated for bactericidal and fungicidal activity against Aspergillus fumigatus, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus equi subspecies ssp. equi, Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In vivo-eight healthy horses were topically treated twice with 30 ml of 0.0005% CHD-EDTA-Tris. Mucosal samples from each location were evaluated for the presence of inflammation or pathologic lesions. RESULTS: Solutions containing CHD were superior in fungal and bacterial killing to those without. In vitro-a 0.005% CHD-EDTA-Tris was 100% effective against all bacterial and fungal species evaluated, while a 0.0005% CHD-EDTA-Tris was less efficacious against A. fumigatus and S. equi ssp. equi. In vivo-a 0.0005% CHD-EDTA-Tris did not cause any clinical, gross, or histologic abnormalities when topically applied to the equine URT. CONCLUSIONS: A 0.0005% CHD-EDTA-Tris was highly effective for killing of common bacterial and fungal isolates in the equine upper respiratory tract. Short-term topical treatment of the equine URT with dilute CHD did not cause gross or histological inflammation in the tissue. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: A 0.0005% CHD solution with EDTA-Tris should be considered for treatment of clinically relevant inflammatory or infectious conditions or in the URT of the horse.

The effect of intra-articular mepivacaine administration prior to carpal arthroscopy on anesthesia management and recovery characteristics in horses.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of intra-articular (IA) mepivacaine administration prior to carpal arthroscopy on anesthetic drug requirements, blood pressure support, hemodynamic variables, and quality of recovery in horses. STUDY DESIGN: Experimental, analytical, cohort study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Twenty-two horses (n = 11 horses/group). METHODS: Horses were anesthetized by using the same protocol, but an IA injection of mepivacaine or saline was performed before carpal arthroscopy. End-tidal isoflurane concentration, heart rate, and mean arterial pressure were recorded at specific time points. Quality of recovery was scored by the anesthetist, who was unaware of group assignment. Data were analyzed by using two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance. RESULTS: Mean arterial pressure was higher during joint distension in the control group compared with baseline (7% higher, P = .02) and with the treatment group (10% higher, P = .04). Heart rate was higher in the control group compared with the treatment group during joint distension (8% higher, P = .04) and chip removal (11% higher, P = .03). Heart rate was higher in the control group compared with baseline during chip removal (5.5% higher, P = .04). Two horses in the control group required additional ketamine vs none in the treatment group. Quality of recovery was not different between groups. CONCLUSION: Intra-articular mepivacaine resulted in fewer detectable reactions to surgical stimulation, with similar recovery scores and blood pressure support requirements. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Intra-articular anesthesia prior to arthroscopy can be used safely in the horse and should be considered as a part of balanced anesthetic protocols.

Racing performance after surgical repair of medial condylar fracture of the third metacarpal/metatarsal bone in thoroughbred racehorses.

OBJECTIVE: To report the performance of thoroughbred racehorses after surgical repair of a medial condylar fracture of the third metacarpal/metatarsal bone. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Forty-three horses surgically treated for medial condylar fractures, 30 with previous racing experience, 13 without previous racing experience (nonexperienced). METHODS: Medical records (2009-2017) were reviewed for signalment, radiographic fracture characteristics, repair technique, and postoperative morbidity and mortality. Each experienced horse was matched with two horses randomly selected from its most recent race to serve as healthy controls. Racing performance parameters (race rating, competitive level, speed rating, performance index) and career racing statistics were compared with multiple regression models between injured experienced horses and controls. The career racing statistics for nonexperienced horses were evaluated. Reasons for nonreturn to racing were obtained. RESULTS: The median duration of follow-up was 6 years (minimum 2, maximum 10). Twenty-one of 43 (49%) horses raced again as well as 18 of 30 (60%) experienced horses and three of 13 (23%) nonexperienced horses. Experienced horses were five times more likely than nonexperienced horses to return to racing (95% confidence interval = 0.07-0.58, P = .003). Higher preoperative racing performance parameters were associated with return to racing. Racing performance parameters were lower after the date of fracture in injured horses compared with controls. CONCLUSION: Experienced horses were more likely to return to racing after medial condylar fracture repair, although their performance was generally lower than that of comparably uninjured horses. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Owners should be aware that horses with medial condylar fractures likely will race at a lower level than their uninjured peers.

Long-term outcome and effect of diagnostic analgesia in horses undergoing interspinous ligament desmotomy for overriding dorsal spinous processes.

OBJECTIVE: To report the long-term outcome of horses treated with interspinous ligament desmotomy (ISLD) for pain associated with overriding dorsal spinous processes (ORDSP) and determine the influence of preoperative diagnostic analgesia on long-term outcome. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: Eighteen horses. METHODS: Data were collected from horses presenting for ISLD to the University of Pennsylvania New Bolton Center between January 2013 and May 2018. Follow-up of ≥3 months postsurgically was obtained from the owner, trainer, or referring veterinarian. Long-term improvement was compared between horses that improved with diagnostic analgesia presurgically and horses that did not undergo diagnostic analgesia presurgically by using a χ2 test. Univariate logistic regression was used to test associations between long-term improvement and independent variables. RESULTS: Clinical signs had improved in 13 of 18 horses at long-term follow-up (median, 14.5 months; range, 3-57). Clinical signs improved in nine of 10 horses responding to diagnostic analgesia but only in four of eight horses that did not undergo diagnostic analgesia (χ2 [1], N = 18) = 3.55; P = .06). Although the likelihood of long-term improvement increased with prior diagnostic analgesia (odds ratio = 6.3; 95% confidence interval = 0.73, 55.0; P = .09), it did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSION: A higher proportion of horses experienced long-term improvement in clinical signs after ISLD when horses responding to preoperative diagnostic analgesia were compared with horses that were not tested. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This study provides some evidence to support the use of diagnostic analgesia in conjunction with clinical examination for identification of clinically relevant ORDSP.

Effects of acepromazine and xylazine on subjective and objective assessments of forelimb lameness.

BACKGROUND: To facilitate lameness evaluation, sedatives such as xylazine and acepromazine are regularly used in the clinical setting, despite concerns that they may confound lameness assessment. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to determine the effect of low doses of acepromazine and xylazine on subjective and objective lameness assessment. STUDY DESIGN: Randomised, blinded, crossover study. METHODS: Six horses with experimentally induced solar pain were evaluated over a 1-hour period after treatment with intravenous xylazine (0.1 or 0.2 mg/kg), intravenous acepromazine (0.02 or 0.04 mg/kg), intravenous saline (1 mL) or local analgesia (4 mL 2% mepivacaine administered subcutaneously). Lameness was assessed objectively with inertial sensors and subjectively on a scale from 0 to 5. Lameness assessments were compared with logistic regression analysis to account for the repeated measures and cross-over study design (P < .05). RESULTS: Xylazine (0.1 and 0.2 mg/kg) or acepromazine (0.02 and 0.04 mg/kg) did not result in significant differences in objective lameness assessment (vector sum) or average subjective lameness grade. Local analgesia was associated with a decrease in subjective lameness grade (OR 0.32 [0.11-0.92], P = .03). Objective measures of lameness (vector sum) were significantly decreased 45 minutes (vector sum 41.8, P = .04) and 60 minutes (vector sum 47.3, P = .03) following local analgesia administration compared with baseline (vector sum 121.4). MAIN LIMITATIONS: Extrapolation of the experimental model of moderate lameness used in this study to broad range of clinical lameness situations should be performed carefully. CONCLUSIONS: These results support the use of low doses of xylazine or acepromazine to facilitate forelimb lameness evaluation up to 1 hour in duration.

Return to racing after surgical management of third carpal bone slab fractures in thoroughbred and standardbred racehorses.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prognosis for racing of horses surgically treated for slab fractures of the third carpal bone (C3). STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case study. ANIMALS: Horses (n = 125) surgically treated for C3 slab fractures. METHODS: Medical records of horses surgically treated for dorsal or sagittal C3 fractures were reviewed for age, sex, breed, limb, fracture type, degree of cartilage damage, and surgical treatment. Radiographs were evaluated to determine fracture depth, width, and displacement. Osteophytes, C3 lysis, and fragmentation were scored. Racing performance was obtained from online databases. Univariable and multivariable analyses were used to determine associations between independent variables and outcomes. RESULTS: Fifty-four (43%) horses raced postoperatively. Among thoroughbreds, 35% (30/86) with dorsal fractures and 63% (17/27) with sagittal fractures raced postoperatively. Among standardbreds, 77% (10/13) with dorsal fractures and 0% (0/2) with sagittal fractures raced postoperatively. Fracture displacement, C3 lysis, and cartilage damage affected the likelihood of racing postoperatively. Placement of 3.5-mm screws vs 4.5-mm screws and the placement of fewer screws were associated with improved likelihood of racing. CONCLUSION: The prognosis for postoperative racing of thoroughbreds with dorsal C3 fractures was less favorable than that previously reported. Concurrent joint pathology, such as cartilage damage at time of surgery, affected the ability of the horse to race postoperatively. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Although internal fixation of C3 slab fractures is required to restore joint congruity, return to racing should be expected in only 42% of thoroughbreds and 67% of standardbreds.

Physeal Fractures in Foals.

Physeal fractures are common musculoskeletal injuries in foals and should be included as a differential diagnosis for the lame or nonweightbearing foal. Careful evaluation of the patient, including precise radiographic assessment, is paramount in determining the options for treatment. Prognosis mostly depends on the patient's age, weight, and fracture location and configuration.

Use of locking compression plates in ulnar fractures of 18 horses.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the outcome, clinical findings, and complications associated with the use of the locking compression plate (LCP) for various types of ulnar fractures in horses. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. SAMPLE POPULATION: Client owned horses (n = 18). METHODS: Medical records, radiographs, and follow-up for horses having an ulnar fracture repaired using at least 1 LCP were reviewed. Fifteen of 18 horses had fractures of the ulna only, and 3 horses had fractures of the ulna and proximal radius. RESULTS: All 18 horses were discharged from the hospital. Complications occurred in 5 horses; incisional infection (n = 4, 22%), implant-associated infection (n = 2, 11%), and colic (n = 1, 6%). Follow-up was available for all horses at a range of 13-120 months and 15 horses (83%) were sound for their intended purpose and 3 horses (17%) were euthanatized. One horse was euthanatized for complications associated with original injury and surgery. CONCLUSIONS: The LCP is a viable method of internal fixation for various types of ulnar fractures, with most horses in this series returning to soundness.

The Normal and Abnormal Equine Neonatal Musculoskeletal System.

The first weeks of life are critical in many aspects, and the musculoskeletal system is no exception. Being able to stand and nurse within hours of life is necessary for survival. Laxity, flexural deformities, and skeletal immaturity can all make it difficult for neonates to ambulate. The increased vascularity to bones and cartilage mixed with the newly forming immune system also make neonates susceptible to infections that we rarely see in adult animals. This article concentrates on orthopedic conditions seen in the first 2 weeks of life.

Autologous vaccination for the treatment of equine sarcoids: 18 cases (2009-2014).

The purpose of this retrospective case series was to assess the outcome of an autologous vaccination procedure on single and multiple sarcoid lesions, determine complication rate, and report owner satisfaction. Medical records (18 cases) from January 2009 through May 2014 were evaluated to identify horses undergoing the procedure. Signalment, number, size, anatomic location of lesions, and type of historical treatment were recorded. Follow-up was obtained via standardized owner survey, veterinary examination, and digital images. Data recorded and analyzed included ancillary therapies post-procedure, decrease in number and/or size of sarcoid lesions, sarcoid regrowth, complications, and owner satisfaction. There was a decrease in number of lesions observed by owners in 75% of cases and a decrease in size of sarcoids in 93.8% of cases. Clinical regression observed by owners was noted in 68.8% of cases. There were complications in 43.8% of cases and owner satisfaction in 75% of cases.

Vaccination autologue pour le traitement des sarcoïdes équins : 18 cas (2009­2014). Le but de cette série de cas rétrospectifs était d'évaluer le résultat d'une procédure de vaccination autologue sur des lésions de sarcoïdes simples et multiples, de déterminer le taux de complication et de signaler la satisfaction des propriétaires. Les dossiers médicaux (18 cas) datant de janvier 2009 à mai 2014 ont été évalués afin d'identifier les chevaux subissant l'intervention. Le signalement, le nombre, la taille, l'emplacement anatomique des lésions et le type de traitement historique ont été consignés. Le suivi a été obtenu par un sondage standard auprès des propriétaires, un examen vétérinaire et des images numériques. Les données consignées et analysées incluaient des traitements auxiliaires après l'intervention, une baisse du nombre et/ou de la taille des lésions des sarcoïdes, la repousse des sarcoïdes, les complications et la satisfaction des propriétaires. Il s'est produit une baisse du nombre des lésions observées par les propriétaires et de la taille des sarcoïdes dans 93,8 % des cas. La régression clinique observée par les propriétaires a été consignée dans 68,8 % des cas. Il y a eu des complications dans 43,8 % des cas et les propriétaires étaient satisfaits dans 75 % des cas.(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).

Using distraction forces to drive an autodistractor during limb lengthening.

Distraction osteogenesis can result in high forces developing in the limb. To determine and control the distraction forces (DF), a motorized distractor driven by feedback from DF was developed and used to lengthen the tibiae of 6 sheep undergoing distraction osteogenesis. The forces were measured continually, and, in 4 of the sheep, a force threshold was set, above which an increase in rate was initiated. The rate kept increasing to a set limit if forces remained above the threshold; otherwise, the rate was decreased. Radiographs were acquired biweekly, and muscle samples were analyzed from both the operated and contralateral limbs upon termination of the experiment. Results demonstrated a drop in DF associated with increased lengthening rate, attributed to separation of the callus as indicated by radiography. Histological evidence of muscle damage generally correlated with higher DF levels. There was a significant decrease in muscle fiber diameter in lengthened relative to contralateral limbs. Collectively, the results demonstrated the use of a force-driven distraction system and support the need for considering force data in regulating distraction rates to achieve optimal clinical outcomes.

Efficacy of three tourniquet types for intravenous antimicrobial regional limb perfusion in standing horses.

OBJECTIVE: To determine (1) if clinically useful concentrations of amikacin sulfate can be obtained in synovial fluid during regional limb perfusion (RLP) performed above the carpus in standing sedated horses and (2) to determine the efficacy of 3 tourniquet types (narrow rubber [NR], wide rubber [WR], pneumatic [PN]). ANIMALS: Horses (n=9). METHODS: Bilateral forelimb RLP with amikacin sulfate (2.5 g) were administered through the cephalic vein in standing sedated horses. Limbs were randomly assigned to the 3 tourniquet types (NR, WR, PN) applied above the carpus. Metacarpophalangeal synovial fluid was obtained 0.5 hour after perfusion. Amikacin concentration in the synovial fluid was detected using fluorescence polarization immunoassay. RESULTS: Mean synovial concentrations of amikacin in the PN (mean 236 µg/mL; range 23-913 µg/mL) and WR (mean 64.2 µg/mL; range 7-315 µg/mL) were significantly higher (P=.000 and .032, respectively) than the NR tourniquet (mean 2.1 µg/mL; range 0.9-3.3 µg/mL). CONCLUSIONS: The PN tourniquet resulted in the highest synovial fluid amikacin concentrations in all horses, although administration with PN and WR tourniquets achieved adequate amikacin concentrations. NR tourniquet is ineffective and should not be used for RLP above the carpus in the standing horse.

Effect of topical application of 1% diclofenac sodium liposomal cream on inflammation in healthy horses undergoing intravenous regional limb perfusion with amikacin sulfate.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether topical application of 1% diclofenac sodium cream would decrease inflammation at sites of IV regional limb perfusion (IVRLP) in healthy horses. ANIMALS: 6 healthy adult horses (12 forelimbs). PROCEDURES: Bilateral IVRLP with 2.5 g of amikacin sulfate was performed twice in each horse, with 24 hours between each session. Horses were treated with topical 1% diclofenac liposomal cream (treated limbs) or a placebo cream (control limbs). All injection sites were evaluated before the first IVRLP session and 24 hours after the second session by means of ultrasonographic examination by a trained ultrasonographer who was unaware of the treatment received. Circumferential measurements and subjective visible inflammation scores were recorded by a veterinarian who was also unaware of treatment received. RESULTS: After IVRLP, control limbs had a significantly greater increase in subcutaneous thickness, compared with treated limbs. Ultrasonographic and visual assessment scores were significantly higher in control versus treated limbs. The mean change in limb circumference was greater, but not significantly so, in control limbs, compared with treated limbs. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Topical application of 1% diclofenac sodium liposomal cream to sites of IVRLP in healthy horses decreased inflammation as judged by visual assessment and ultrasonography. Decreased inflammation may allow extended use of IVRLP and may result in a reduction in pain in treated horses.

Multiple rib fracture repair in a neonatal Holstein calf.

OBJECTIVES: To report rib fracture repair in a neonatal calf using the Securos Cranial Cruciate Ligament Repair System (SCCLRS). STUDY DESIGN: Case report. ANIMALS: A 2-day-old female Holstein calf with fracture of right ribs 4-10. METHODS: On the day of admission the calf was anesthetized and rib fractures were repaired using open reduction and the SCCLRS. RESULTS: Rib fractures were successfully stabilized and the calf discharged from the hospital 8 days postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Modification of previously reported use of the SCCLRS to repair rib fractures in foals was required because of the different anatomy in the calf. This new technique was rapidly and easily performed for a large number of fractured ribs in this case. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Effective rib fracture repair in calves can be readily performed using the SCCLRS with modification of the technique reported in foals.