Fractured Ribs

This is a condition that occurs in larger foals or from dystocia foals. Foals of primiparous mares should be considered at a higher risk for thoracic trauma. May be subclinical and be overlooked by the practitioner [1].

1. Clinical Signs [1]

1. Lethargic, spend time down, may get up stiffly with groaning.
2. Pericardial and lung lacerations may lead to hemopericardium, hemothorax, pulmonary tamponade, pneumothorax and respiratory difficulty.
3. May produce diaphragmatic lesions and hemoperitoneum.

2. Diagnosis [1]

1. While foal is standing palpate ribs with both hands feeling for asymmetry and crepitus.
2. Series of ribs may be indented on one side; rarely are fractures bilateral.
3. Ultrasound for rib displacement.
4. Sudden death due to laceration of large vessels.

3. Treatment [1,2]

1. Early detection and stall rest for 2-4 weeks.
2. More severe cases require chest drainage and taping or padding chest for flail chest problems.
3. Surgical repair is possible, ribs repaired by internal fixation. Surgical stabilization utilizing reconstruction plates, self-tapping cortical screws and cerclage wire for selected cases.
4. Analgesics and respiratory support if indicated.
5. Antibiotics if delayed nursing from mare.
6. Foals may develop pneumothorax during surgical repair.