Presentation
Presented for evaluation of a non-weight bearing lameness of the left pelvic limb of unknown duration.
Patient Data
There is a transverse fracture through the distal femoral physis with mild caudal displacement of the distal femoral epiphysis. There is smooth, bridging bony callus. The fracture margins are smooth and indistinct. There is good alignment of the fracture fragments on the cranial caudal projection with mild malalignment of the fracture fragments on the lateral projection.
Chronic femoral physeal fracture.
Case Discussion
The location of a bony lesion is important for determining its cause. Determine if the lesion involves the cortex and/or medulla of a bone. In an immature patient, a bony lesion may involve the diaphysis, metaphysis, physis, or epiphysis. Don't confuse separate centers of ossification for fractures! When in doubt, radiograph the contralateral limb. Be sure to evaluate the adjacent joints and soft tissues.
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