Outcome following lag screw fixation of non‐ C3 carpal slab fractures in horses

OBJECTIVE: To describe clinical features and short- and long-term outcomes of horses treated with lag screw fixation of slab fractures of the radial carpal (Cr), intermediate carpal (Ci), ulnar carpal (Cu), second (C2) or fourth (C4) carpal bones. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case study. ANIMALS: Horses (n = 19) treated with lag screw fixation for slab fractures of Cr, Ci, Cu, C2 or C4. METHODS: Medical records of patients with carpal slab fractures were reviewed, and those undergoing internal fixation of slab fractures involving Cr, Ci, Cu, C2, or C4 carpal bones from January 2008 to January 2026 were included. Long-term outcomes were obtained by a standardized questionnaire. Descriptive data are presented. RESULTS: Predominant breeds included Thoroughbreds (7/19) and Warmbloods (7/19). A total of 10 of 19 fractures were caused by traumatic falls, including six during recovery from general anesthesia. Five of 19 surgeries were performed with arthroscopic guidance, and 14/19 surgeries were performed with computed tomography (CT) guidance. Survival beyond 1 year was 88%, with 53% returning to previous athletic function and 71% owner satisfaction. CONCLUSION: Prognosis for return to the previous level of work was good and comparable to that previously reported for internal fixation of C3 slab fractures. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Lag screw fixation provides good outcomes in survival, return to work, and owner satisfaction for slab fractures of Cr, Ci, Cu, C2, or C4.