Successful treatment of a comminuted frontal plane fracture of the distal phalanx in a horse is described. The bone fractured through the solar canal, close to the insertion of the deep digital flexor tendon. A hoof cast was used to reduce bending and tensile stresses on the solar surface by limiting expansion of the hoof wall during weightbearing, In addition, the heel was elevated, using 3 degrees wedge pads incorporated within the hoof cast, to reduce distraction at the fracture site caused by the pull of the deep digital flexor tendon. Two casts were used over a 4-month period. Complete radiographic healing of the fracture was evident 4 months after injury At this time the horse was lame at the trot. The owner reported the horse to be sound 7 months after injury. Reexamination 12 months after injury revealed a clinically normal foot and no lameness.
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