What is Fracture Repair Surgery?

Fracture repair surgery is the process of realigning and stabilising broken bones using surgical implants such as plates, screws, pins, or external fixators. Unlike human medicine where conservative treatment with casts is common, veterinary patients benefit significantly from surgical stabilisation due to their activity levels and inability to comply with rest restrictions.

Bone fractures in pets occur for various reasons, most commonly from trauma such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, or impact injuries. The goal of fracture repair surgery is to restore the bone to its original anatomic position and provide stable fixation while natural healing occurs.

Types of Fractures in Dogs & Cats

Types of Fractures in Dogs and Cats

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Simple Fractures

Clean breaks in the middle of the bone with minimal fragmentation

Comminuted Fractures

Multiple bone fragments requiring complex reconstruction

Open Fractures

Bone breaks through the skin, requiring immediate attention

Pathological Fractures

Breaks in weakened bone due to disease or tumours

Growth Plate Fractures

Injuries to developing bone in young animals

Commonly Fractured Bones

Commonly Fractured Bones

  • Femur (thigh bone): Often from high-impact trauma
  • Tibia/Fibula (shin bones): Common in jumping injuries
  • Humerus (upper arm): Frequently seen in small breed dogs
  • Radius/Ulna (forearm): Often from falls or vehicle accidents
  • Pelvis: Usually from motor vehicle trauma
  • Ribs: Can occur with chest trauma

Treatment Options for Pet Fractures

Treatment depends on severity and underlying cause:

Non-Surgical Management

Limited to specific fracture types:

– Hairline fractures in some bones
– Some pelvic fractures without displacement
– Certain rib fractures
– Fractures in very young animals with excellent healing capacity
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Includes External Support Methods

– Casts for lower leg fractures
– Splints for temporary stabilisation
– External fixators for complex cases

Surgical Fracture Repair

Surgery is recommended for most fractures to ensure:

– Precise anatomical alignment
– Stable fixation during healing
– Early return to function
– Reduced risk of complications
– Better long-term outcomes
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Includes Internal & External Fixation Methods:

– Bone Plates and Screws
– Intramedullary Pins
– Screws and Wires
– External Skeletal Fixation
– Interlocking Nails

Fixed Price Dog & Cat Fracture Repair Surgery


Simple Fractures: $2500*

  • Single bone, minimal fragmentation
  • Straightforward surgical approach

Complex Fractures: starts from $4,000*

  • Multiple fragments  Joint involvement  
  • Multiple bones affected
  • Joint involvement

*Prices are indicative only.

The above cost estimate includes:

  • Pre-surgical examination & consultation
  • General anaesthesia and monitoring
  • Pre-anaesthetic blood work
  • Surgical procedure and implants
  • Intravenous fluid therapy
  • Pain management medications
  • Basic radiographs (X-rays)
  • Suture removal appointment

Factors that influence the surgery cost:

  • Weight of pet
  • The complexity of the surgery

Additional prices that may apply:

  • Advanced imaging (CT scan) only if required
  • Multiple follow-up radiographs
  • Extended hospitalisation
  • Physiotherapy sessions

Why Choose Animal Surgery Centre for Fracture Repair Surgery?

  • Dr Jas has over 21 years of experience as a vet.
  • Dr Jas has performed over 1400+ orthopedic surgeries.
  • Quality care at affordable prices.
  • Advanced equipment and surgical techniques
  • Proven track record and exceptional patient outcomes
  • State-of-the-art surgical equipment and modern fixation methods

The Fracture Repair Surgical Process

Pre-Surgery Evaluation

  • Our experienced veterinarians conduct a comprehensive assessment including:
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  • Detailed orthopaedic examination
  • Range of motion testing
  • Gait analysis and lameness evaluation
  • Radiographs (X-rays) to assess bone structure
  • Pre-anaesthetic blood work
  • Discussion of surgical options and prognosis

Day of Surgery

  • Pre-anaesthetic medications for comfort
  • Anaesthetic induction with comprehensive monitoring
  • Surgical exposure of the fracture site
  • Fracture reduction and anatomical alignment
  • Implant placement using appropriate fixation method
  • Wound closure in layers

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

Immediate Care (First 48 Hours)

  • Pain management: Prescribed medications given as directed
  • Rest and confinement: Crate rest or small room confinement
  • Incision monitoring: Check for excessive swelling or discharge
  • Elizabethan collar: Prevent licking of surgical site

Recovery Timeline

Weeks 1-2: Initial Healing

  • Strict rest and confinement
  • Short leash walks for toileting only (5 minutes)
  • No stairs, jumping, or off-leash activity
  • Most pets begin weight-bearing within 10 days
  • Suture removal at 10-14 days

    Weeks 3-4: Early Mobilisation

    • Recovery starts in second Gradual introduction of controlled walking
    • Lead walks increasing from 5minutes,  twice daily
    • Gentle range of motion exercises
    • Swimming allowed under veterinary supervision
    • Continued strict supervision required

    Weeks 5-8: Progressive Activity

    • Increasing weight-bearing and improved mobility
    • Lead walks extending to 5-10 minutes, 2-3 times daily
    • Introduction of gentle inclines
    • Hydrotherapy and physiotherapy beneficial
    • Follow up x-rays at Week 6 to assess healing and future mobility restrictions/returns

    Weeks 9-12: Return to Function

    • Good weight-bearing with minimal lameness
    • Walks extending to 30+ minutes
    • Gradual introduction of off-leash activity (short periods)
    • Return to stairs and normal household activities
    • Most pets achieve 90-95% normal function
    *Timeline may vary depending on fracture site and complexity.

    Further Readings:

    Monitoring and Follow-Up Care

    Monitoring and Follow-Up Care

    Regular Veterinary Checks

    • 2-week post-op – Suture removal and incision assessment
    • 6-week check – Radiographs to assess early healing
    • 12-week evaluation – Confirm bone union and implant stability
    • 6-month assessment – Long-term outcome evaluation


    Signs Requiring Immediate Attention

    • Persistent severe lameness beyond expected timeline
    • Swelling, heat, or discharge from incision site
    • Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
    • Inability to bear weight on the limb
    • Visible implant or loose sutures
    • Extreme pain despite medication


    Long-Term Considerations

    • Implant longevity – Most implants remain permanently
    • Arthritis prevention – Maintain healthy weight and regular exercise
    • Activity modifications – Some high-impact activities may be restricted
    • Regular health monitoring – Annual examinations to assess joint health
    Success Rates and Prognosis

    Success Rates and Prognosis

    Fracture repair surgery success rates vary by:

    Fracture Location and Type

    • Simple long bone fractures – 95–98% excellent outcomes
    • Complex comminuted fractures – 85–90% good to excellent results
    • Joint fractures – 80–90% success rate depending on severity

    Patient Factors

    • Young animals – Generally faster healing and better outcomes
    • Healthy patients – Better anaesthetic tolerance and healing
    • Body condition – Overweight pets have more complications

    Surgical Factors

    • Surgeon experience significantly impacts outcomes
    • Appropriate implant selection crucial for success
    • Post-operative care compliance affects results

    Potential Complications and Risks

    Potential Complications and Risks

    Anaesthetic Risks

    Modern anaesthesia protocols are very safe when performed by experienced teams with proper monitoring equipment. Pre-anaesthetic blood work helps identify any underlying health concerns.

    Surgical Complications

    Infection – Occurs in less than 5% of cases when proper surgical protocols are followed. Prevention includes sterile surgical technique and appropriate antibiotic use.

    Implant Problems

    • Loosening or breakage – 5–10% of cases
    • Often related to premature return to activity
    • May require revision surgery

    Non-Union – Failure of bone to heal properly (5–15% depending on fracture type)

    • More common with severe trauma or infection
    • May require additional surgery or bone grafting

    Delayed Healing – Slower than expected bone healing

    • Often related to patient factors or activity levels
    • Usually resolves with extended rest periods

    Nerve or Blood Vessel Injury – Rare but possible with complex fractures near vital structures

    Minimising Complications

    • Follow all post-operative instructions precisely
    • Attend scheduled follow-up appointments
    • Report any concerns immediately
    • Maintain appropriate body weight
    • Provide consistent medication administration