## Overview Pelvic fractures result from slipping, falling, or impact, or from stress in racehorses. Common sites include the tuber coxae (point of hip), ilial wing, and pelvic floor. Signs are acute severe hind-limb lameness, possible asymmetry of the pelvis, crepitus, and muscle atrophy. Diagnosis is by rectal palpation, ultrasound, or scintigraphy. ## Causes Trauma or fatigue failure. ## Diagnosis Rectal examination, ultrasound, and bone scan. Radiographs are difficult in adults. ## Treatment Strict stall rest for most fractures. Surgery is rarely feasible. Prognosis depends on the location and degree of displacement. Tuber coxae fractures often do well; more central fractures are more serious. ## Recovery and Prognosis Variable. Many tuber coxae and some ilial fractures heal with rest. Displaced acetabular or highly unstable fractures have a poor outlook. ## Prevention Safe footing and monitoring of racehorses for early stress changes.
acute severe hind-limb lameness; asymmetric pelvis; crepitus; muscle atrophy; confirmed on rectal palpation or ultrasound
## Overview Pelvic fractures result from slipping, falling, or impact, or from stress in racehorses. Common sites include the tuber coxae (point of hip), ilial wing, and pelvic floor. Signs are acute severe hind-limb lameness, possible asymmetry of the pelvis, crepitus, and muscle atrophy. Diagnosis is by rectal palpation, ultrasound, or scintigraphy. ## Causes Trauma or fatigue failure. ## Diagnosis Rectal examination, ultrasound, and bone scan. Radiographs are difficult in adults. ## Treatment Strict stall rest for most fractures. Surgery is rarely feasible. Prognosis depends on the location and degree of displacement. Tuber coxae fractures often do well; more central fractures are more serious. ## Recovery and Prognosis Variable. Many tuber coxae and some ilial fractures heal with rest. Displaced acetabular or highly unstable fractures have a poor outlook. ## Prevention Safe footing and monitoring of racehorses for early stress changes.
acute severe hind-limb lameness; asymmetric pelvis; crepitus; muscle atrophy; confirmed on rectal palpation or ultrasound